Relay Throw in Cricket Fielding Explained

What Is a Relay Throw?

A relay throw is a fielding technique in which the ball is thrown from deep in the outfield to an intermediate fielder positioned closer to the wicket, who then relays it to the keeper or bowler's end. The technique dramatically shortens the throwing distance for each individual fielder, allowing the team to return the ball faster than a single long throw would allow.

Why Relay Throws Matter

A throw from the boundary rope to the stumps can cover 70–80 metres. Even elite throwers lose pace and accuracy over that distance. A relay cuts the journey in half — the boundary fielder throws 35–40 metres to a mid-off or mid-on relay position, who then delivers an accurate 30–35 metre throw directly onto the stumps. The total transit time is often faster and the final delivery far more precise.

Setting Up a Relay

• Boundary fielder reads the shot and calls 'relay' to a teammate
• A mid-field player sprints to an intercept point roughly halfway between the boundary and stumps
• Boundary fielder throws flat and hard to the relay player's catching side
• Relay player catches and immediately releases a sharp throw to the relevant end
• Keeper or fielder backing up covers any overthrow

Common Relay Scenarios

Relay throws are most common when the ball reaches the deep square leg or deep mid-wicket boundary and a batter is attempting a third run. The relay is also used when a batter risks a run after a mis-field and the ball is still in the outfield. T20 cricket has made relay throwing a core training skill at every level because even a single run saved can decide a match.

Training the Relay

Elite fielding coaches drill relay throws with specific target zones. The relay player must catch with both hands to absorb the impact cleanly, turn quickly without losing balance, and release with a flat trajectory. Fumbles at the relay position are as damaging as a missed throw at the stumps, so accuracy and composure are equally important at both stages.