Boundary Count in Cricket — How Sixes and Fours Break Ties
When matches end level and boundary count is used, how it works, and why some see it as a controversial tie-breaker.
In cricket, a tie occurs when both teams score exactly the same number of runs. In limited-overs formats, a Super Over is used to break the tie. But if the Super Over itself finishes level, the boundary count rule applies — the team that hit more fours and sixes in the original match (and Super Over combined) is declared the winner.
When Boundary Count Became Famous
The boundary count rule became globally discussed after the 2019 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup final at Lord's. England and New Zealand tied the match at 241 runs each. The subsequent Super Over also finished level at 15 runs apiece. England were declared the winners because they hit 26 boundaries in the match compared to New Zealand's 17. It remains one of the most debated moments in cricket history, with many arguing the rule was unfair.
How Boundary Count Is Calculated
When a Super Over ends level, the total number of fours and sixes from both the main match and the Super Over are counted for each team. The team with more boundaries is declared the winner. If boundaries are equal, the count is restricted to the Super Over alone. If still level, the host broadcaster format or a further playoff may be required depending on competition rules.
Current Rules After the 2019 Controversy
Following the backlash against the World Cup final result, the ICC changed its playing conditions. In most ICC tournaments, if a Super Over is tied, another Super Over is bowled. This continues until one team scores more runs in a Super Over than the other. Boundary count is still used in some domestic competitions where playing until midnight is not practical.
Arguments For and Against
Those who support boundary count argue it differentiates teams on an objective metric tied to the game rather than a coin-toss-like element. Those against it argue that boundaries earlier in the match are not more important than runs scored in a Super Over — a boundary hit in over 10 does not deserve greater weight than a run scored in the tie-breaking phase. The ICC's decision to move to multiple Super Overs reflects the majority opinion that boundary count is an unsatisfying resolution.
Frequently asked questions
Does boundary count still exist in cricket?
It is still written into some domestic competition rules but the ICC no longer uses it as the first tie-breaker in international tournaments.
What is a Super Over?
A Super Over is a one-over per side tiebreaker used in limited-overs cricket when the main match ends level. Each team nominates two batters and one bowler. The team scoring more runs in their Super Over wins.
Has boundary count ever been used before 2019?
Yes, it was used in domestic competitions before, but the 2019 World Cup final was the first time it decided a major ICC global tournament and drew worldwide attention.