Cricket can be confusing if you do not know the words used during matches. From “googly” to “silly point,” the sport has its own language. Many new fans struggle to follow commentary or match updates because of this. That makes watching less enjoyable. This guide solves that by giving you an A–Z list of cricket terms, explained in simple words with real match examples. You will also see diagrams for field positions, the origin of some terms, and the differences in phrases used around the world. Whether you watch Tests, ODIs, or T20s, this is the only glossary you will need.
Why Understanding Cricket Terminology Matters
Knowing cricket terminology turns the game from confusing to exciting. When you understand what LBW, powerplay, or strike rate mean, you can appreciate the skill and tactics on display. It also makes conversations with other fans and score updates far more enjoyable.
20 Common Terms for Beginners
If you are just starting to watch cricket, these are the words you will hear most often.
- Wicket – Can mean the set of stumps, the dismissal of a batter, or the pitch itself. Example: “He took two wickets in one over.”
- Over – Six legal balls bowled by one bowler. Example: “That was a maiden over.”
- Run – The basic scoring unit. Example: “They need 10 runs to win.”
- LBW – Leg Before Wicket, a way a batter can be out. Example: “The umpire gave him LBW after a review.”
- Boundary – When the ball reaches the edge of the field, scoring four or six runs.
- Six – Ball hit over the boundary without touching the ground.
- Four – Ball reaches boundary after touching the ground.
- Catch – Batter is out when a fielder catches the ball before it hits the ground.
- Innings – The team’s turn to bat.
- Pitch – The strip of ground between the stumps.
- Crease – The marked line a batter must stay behind to avoid being out.
- Spin Bowling – Bowling style that turns the ball using wrist or finger action.
- Fast Bowling – Bowling at high speed, usually above 130 km/h.
- All-rounder – A player good at both batting and bowling.
- Partnership – Runs scored by two batters before one is out.
- Duck – Batter out without scoring any runs.
- Powerplay – Limited overs phase with fielding restrictions.
- Review – When a team challenges an umpire’s decision using video replay.
- No-ball – An illegal delivery by the bowler.
- Free Hit – Batter cannot be out in most ways on the next ball after a no-ball.
A–Z Cricket Terminology Glossary
A
Across the Line
Across the Line is when a batter swings the bat sideways to the ball’s path, aiming to hit it square or behind square. It’s exciting but risky — a mistimed shot can get the batter bowled, caught, or out LBW.
Action
In cricket, Action refers to the bowler’s movement from the start of their run-up to the release of the ball. A smooth bowling action helps control accuracy, speed, and spin.
Agricultural Shot
An Agricultural Shot is a hard swing across the line with little focus on proper batting style. It’s powerful but wild, often aimed at cow corner, and can lead to big hits or quick dismissals.
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Air
When a bowler gives the ball more Air, it travels in a higher arc than usual. This slower, looping delivery can trick the batter into misjudging the bounce or turn.
All Out
All Out means the batting side has no more players left to bat, usually after 10 dismissals. Even though one batter remains, the innings ends because there’s no partner to continue.
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All-Rounder
An All-Rounder is a player who contributes with both bat and ball. They’re valuable because they can score runs and take wickets in the same match.
Amateur
An Amateur is someone who plays cricket for enjoyment, not as a paid professional. In the past, amateurs often came from wealthy backgrounds, unlike professional players.
Analysis
In cricket, Analysis means the statistical record of a bowler’s performance — usually shown as overs bowled, maidens, runs conceded, and wickets taken.
Anchor
An Anchor is a batter who stays at the crease for a long time, scoring steadily and keeping the innings stable when others are getting out.
Appeal
An Appeal is when a bowler or fielder asks the umpire to give the batter out, often shouting “How’s that?” The umpire cannot give a decision unless there’s an appeal.
Approach
Approach means the movement of a bowler before they release the ball, also called the run-up. The word can also refer to the area they run on during delivery.
Arm Ball
An Arm Ball is a type of delivery bowled by a spinner that does not turn after pitching. Instead, it goes straight on with the bowler’s arm path and can swing slightly.
Around the Wicket
Around the Wicket means the bowler delivers from the side of the stumps opposite to their bowling arm, changing the angle to the batter.
The Ashes
The Ashes is the famous Test series between England and Australia. It began in 1882 after Australia beat England in England for the first time, leading to the symbolic “urn” trophy.
Asking Rate
Asking Rate is the number of runs a batting team needs to score per over to win a match. It’s also called the required run rate.
Attacking Field
An Attacking Field places more players near the batter to create catching chances. It’s aggressive but can allow runs if the ball passes the infield.
Attacking Shot
An Attacking Shot is a strong, aggressive hit played to score quickly. Batters use it to put pressure on the bowlers.
Audi
In cricket, Audi means a batter has been out for zero runs in four consecutive innings. The name comes from the car brand’s logo of four linked rings.
B
Back Foot
Back Foot is the foot closest to the stumps when a batter takes guard. For a right-handed batter, it’s the right foot; for a left-hander, it’s the left foot. Bowlers also use the term for the foot that lands first before delivery.
Back Foot Contact
Back Foot Contact is the moment a bowler’s back foot lands on the ground just before they release the ball.
Back Foot Shot
A Back Foot Shot is played with weight on the back foot, often to hit short-pitched deliveries behind square.
Back Spin
Back Spin is when the bowler spins the ball backwards. After bouncing, it slows down or skids through lower than expected.
Backing Up
Backing Up has two meanings. For a batter, it means leaving the crease early to shorten the distance for a run. For a fielder, it means positioning behind a teammate to stop the ball if their throw misses.
Backlift
Backlift is the upward movement of the bat in preparation to play a shot. A good backlift helps generate timing and power.
Badger
A Badger is slang for a player who is extremely passionate about cricket and knows a lot about the game.
Bad Light
Bad Light is when the natural light is too dim to see the ball clearly, making it unsafe to play. Umpires can stop the game in such cases.
Baggy Green
Baggy Green is the iconic dark green cap worn by Australian Test players. It’s a strong symbol of national cricket pride.
Bail
Bail refers to one of the two small wooden pieces that sit on top of the stumps. A wicket is broken if at least one bail is removed.
Ball
In cricket, Ball means either the hard leather object bowled at the batter or a single delivery in an over.
Also read: Types of Balls in Cricket
Ball Tampering
Ball Tampering is illegally altering the ball’s condition to change its movement. It’s against the rules and considered cheating.
Ball Tracking
Ball Tracking is technology used to follow the ball’s path for decisions like LBW or to analyse bowling patterns. Systems like Hawk-Eye are common.
Bang It In
Bang It In means bowling a short-pitched delivery with extra effort to get more bounce.
Bat
A Bat is the wooden tool a batter uses to hit the ball. It has a flat blade and a handle joined at the splice.
Bat-Pad
Bat-Pad is a close-in fielder on the leg side, placed to catch balls that hit the bat and pad together.
Batter
Batter is the modern term for a batsman or batswoman — a player whose role is to score runs and protect the wicket.
Batting
Batting is the act of playing shots to score runs and defend the wicket.
Batting Average
Batting Average is the total runs scored by a batter divided by the number of times they’ve been out.
Batting Collapse
Batting Collapse is when multiple batters get out quickly for few runs, putting the team under pressure.
Batting for a Draw
Batting for a Draw means playing very defensively in a timed match to avoid losing, often by blocking instead of attacking.
Batting Order
Batting Order is the sequence in which players bat, starting with openers and ending with the lower order.
Beach Cricket
Beach Cricket is a casual form of the game played on sandy beaches, often with light equipment.
Beamer
A Beamer is an illegal delivery that reaches the batter above waist height without bouncing.
Beat the Bat
Beat the Bat is when the ball passes close to the bat without making contact, giving the bowler a moral victory.
Beehive
A Beehive is a graphic showing where deliveries have passed the batter, often used in analysis.
Beer Match
A Beer Match is a fun game played after a formal match ends early, often with relaxed rules.
Belter
A Belter is a pitch that strongly favours batters, making it easy to score runs.
Bend the Back
Bend the Back means a fast bowler puts in extra effort to gain more pace or bounce.
Benefit Season
Benefit Season is a series of events to reward a long-serving player before retirement.
Best Bowling
Best Bowling is a bowler’s most successful performance, often measured by wickets taken and runs conceded.
Biffer
A Biffer is an aggressive batter who looks to hit the ball hard rather than play defensively.
Bite
Bite is the amount of turn or grip a spin bowler gets from the pitch.
Block
Block is a defensive shot aimed at stopping the ball safely without trying to score.
Blocker
A Blocker is a batter who plays very defensively, scoring slowly but protecting their wicket.
Block Hole
Block Hole is the small gap between the bat and the batter’s feet, often targeted by yorker deliveries.
Blob
Blob means being out for zero runs. It’s another term for a duck.
Bodyline
Bodyline was a tactic from the 1930s where fast bowlers aimed at the batter’s body with close leg-side fielders.
Boot Hill
Boot Hill is slang for the short leg position — considered risky because the ball often comes fast and close.
Bosie
Bosie is another name for a googly, a leg-spinner’s delivery that turns the opposite way to the usual leg break.
Bottom Hand
Bottom Hand is the hand closest to the bat blade. Heavy use of the bottom hand often sends the ball in the air.
Bouncer
A Bouncer is a fast, short-pitched ball that rises to chest or head height to challenge the batter.
Bounce Out
Bounce Out means dismissing a batter due to bounce, often from a catch after a short-pitched delivery.
Boundary
Boundary means the edge of the playing field or a shot that reaches it, scoring four or six runs.
Bowled
Bowled is when a delivery hits the stumps and removes at least one bail.
Bowled Around the Legs
Bowled Around the Legs is when a delivery goes behind the batter’s legs and still hits the stumps.
Bowled Out
Bowled Out can mean all out or sometimes is used incorrectly for bowled.
Bowler
Bowler is the player delivering the ball to the batter.
Bowling
Bowling is the act of delivering the ball towards the batter.
Bowl-Out
Bowl-Out was a method to decide tied matches, where players bowled at empty stumps.
Bowling Action
Bowling Action is the set of movements a bowler makes during delivery.
Bowling Analysis
Bowling Analysis is the statistical summary of a bowler’s overs, maidens, runs conceded, and wickets taken.
Bowling at the Death
Bowling at the Death means bowling in the final overs of a limited-overs match, often under high pressure.
Bowling Average
Bowling Average is runs conceded divided by wickets taken — lower numbers show better performance.
Box
A Box is protective gear worn to guard the groin area from injury.
Brace
Brace means taking two wickets in two consecutive deliveries.
Break
Break refers to the change in direction of the ball after pitching due to spin or cut.
Buffet Bowling
Buffet Bowling is poor-quality bowling that is easy to hit for runs.
Bump Ball
Bump Ball is when the batter hits the ball straight into the ground and it is caught, often mistaken for a direct catch.
Bumper
Bumper is another term for a bouncer.
Bunny
Bunny is slang for a batter who often gets out to the same bowler.
Bunsen
Bunsen is slang for a pitch that offers a lot of spin, from “Bunsen Burner” meaning “turner.”
Buzzer
Buzzer is an overthrow that allows batters to run extra runs.
Bye
Bye is an extra run scored when the ball passes the batter without touching bat or body.
C
Cafeteria Bowling
Cafeteria Bowling is when the bowler delivers poor-quality balls that are easy to hit. Batters can “help themselves” to runs, just like picking food from a buffet.
Call
Call is the shout made by batters to signal whether to run or not. Common calls are “yes,” “no,” and “wait.” Good calling prevents confusion and run outs.
Cap
Cap can mean a type of soft hat worn by players, or it can mean an appearance for a national team — for example, a player earning their “first cap.”
Captain
The Captain is the team leader who sets the field, decides the bowling changes, and makes key tactical calls during a match.
Carrom Ball
Carrom Ball is a spin delivery released by flicking the ball between the thumb and bent middle finger, making it turn unexpectedly.
Carry
Carry means the ball travels far enough to reach the fielder or wicketkeeper without bouncing too early.
Carry the Bat
Carry the Bat means an opening batter stays not out for the entire innings while all other team members are dismissed.
Cartwheel
Cartwheel is when the stumps are hit so hard that one spins through the air end over end before landing.
Castled
Castled is slang for being bowled, usually by a yorker or a ball that hits the stumps directly.
Catch
Catch is when a fielder grabs the ball cleanly before it touches the ground after being hit by the batter.
Caught
Caught is a dismissal where the ball is caught by a fielder, bowler, or wicketkeeper before touching the ground.
Caught and Bowled
Caught and Bowled is when the bowler dismisses a batter by catching their own delivery after it’s hit.
Caught Behind
Caught Behind is when the wicketkeeper catches the ball after it edges or glances off the batter’s bat or glove.
Centurion
Centurion is a batter who scores 100 or more runs in a single innings.
Century
Century is scoring 100 or more runs in one innings. It’s a proud achievement for any batter.
Chance
Chance is an opportunity to get a batter out — like a dropped catch or a missed run out — that is not taken.
Charge
Charge is when a batter runs towards the bowler while the ball is in the air to play a powerful shot.
Check Upstairs
Check Upstairs is when an umpire refers a decision to the third umpire using video replays.
Cherry
Cherry is slang for a red cricket ball or the red mark it leaves on a bat.
Chest On
Chest On describes the bowler’s or batter’s body facing towards the other player during delivery or batting stance.
Chin Music
Chin Music is a tactic where fast bowlers bowl short-pitched balls aimed near the batter’s head to intimidate them.
Chinaman
Chinaman is a left-arm wrist spin delivery that turns into a right-handed batter.
Chinese Cut
Chinese Cut is a mis-hit shot where the ball edges off the inside of the bat and narrowly misses the stumps.
Chop On
Chop On is when the batter accidentally deflects the ball from the bat onto their own stumps.
Chuck
Chuck is an illegal bowling action where the elbow is bent while delivering the ball.
Circle
Circle is the painted 30-yard fielding restriction line used in limited-overs cricket.
Clean Bowled
Clean Bowled is when the ball hits the stumps without touching the batter’s bat or pads.
Club
Club means either a cricket organisation or to hit the ball hard without elegant technique.
Club Cricket
Club Cricket is amateur cricket played at a competitive level below professional matches.
Collapse
Collapse is when several batters are dismissed quickly for very few runs.
Come to the Crease
Come to the Crease means when a batter walks to the pitch to start their innings.
Competitive Women’s Cricket
Competitive Women’s Cricket is the official term for professional-level women’s cricket matches.
Compulsory Close (CC)
Compulsory Close is when an innings ends due to overs or time limits, not because all batters are out.
Conventional Swing
Conventional Swing is when the ball moves in the air in the expected way based on seam position and bowling style.
Contrived Circumstances
Contrived Circumstances are unusual match tactics aimed at achieving a certain result, often affecting official records.
Cordon
Cordon refers to a group of slip fielders placed behind the batter to catch edges.
Corridor of Uncertainty
Corridor of Uncertainty is the narrow area just outside the off stump that makes a batter unsure whether to play or leave the ball.
County Cricket
County Cricket is the top domestic cricket competition in England and Wales.
Cover
Cover is a fielding position on the off side between point and mid-off. It can also mean the tarpaulin used to protect the pitch from rain.
Cow Corner
Cow Corner is the deep leg-side area between mid-wicket and long-on, often targeted by powerful slog shots.
Cow Shot
Cow Shot is a hard, often unorthodox hit aimed towards cow corner, usually in the air.
Crease
Crease is the marked line on the pitch that helps decide run outs, stumpings, and no-ball calls.
Cricketer
Cricketer is anyone who plays the game of cricket, from amateur to professional.
Cross-Bat Shot
Cross-Bat Shot is a stroke where the bat is held horizontally, like a cut or pull shot.
Cross the Rope
Cross the Rope means stepping over the boundary rope, either by a player or when the ball reaches it for a boundary.
Cut
Cut is a shot played square on the off side to a short ball wide of off stump.
Cutter
Cutter is a delivery from a fast bowler that spins like a slow bowler’s ball, surprising the batter.
D
Daisy Cutter
Daisy Cutter is a very low delivery that skims close to the ground after pitching, making it hard for the batter to hit.
Dance Down
Dance Down is when a batter steps out of the crease towards the bowler to meet the ball earlier and play an attacking shot.
Danger Area
Danger Area is the central strip of the pitch where bowlers must not step with their follow-through to avoid damaging the playing surface.
Day/Night Match
Day/Night Match is a game that starts in the afternoon and continues into the evening under floodlights, usually played with a pink or white ball.
Dead Ball
Dead Ball is when the ball is not in play, such as after it’s settled in the hands of the wicketkeeper or fielder, or if the umpire calls it.
Dead Bat
Dead Bat is a defensive technique where the batter softens their grip to stop the ball’s momentum after it hits the bat, preventing catches.
Death Bowling
Death Bowling means bowling in the final overs of a limited-overs match, aiming to stop batters from scoring quickly.
Death Overs
Death Overs are the final overs of a limited-overs innings where batters try to score rapidly and bowlers aim to contain them.
Declaration
Declaration is when the batting captain ends the innings voluntarily to give their team enough time to try to bowl the opposition out.
Deep
Deep describes a fielding position close to the boundary rope, far from the batter.
Defensive Field
Defensive Field is a field setup designed to stop runs rather than take wickets, with fielders spread out on the boundary.
Defensive Shot
Defensive Shot is a stroke where the batter blocks the ball to protect the wicket, rather than to score.
Deficit
Deficit is the difference in runs when one team is behind the other in the score after an innings.
Delivery
Delivery is the act of the bowler releasing the ball towards the batter.
Dibbly-Dobbly
Dibbly-Dobbly is slang for medium-pace bowling with little speed but accurate line and length.
Dilscoop
Dilscoop is an inventive shot where the batter scoops the ball over the wicketkeeper’s head, made popular by Tillakaratne Dilshan.
Dismissal
Dismissal means the batter is out and their innings is over. There are several ways to be dismissed, including bowled, caught, LBW, and run out.
Doctored Pitch
Doctored Pitch is a playing surface deliberately prepared to suit one team’s strengths, such as more turn for spinners or extra bounce for fast bowlers.
Dolly
Dolly is an easy catch that a fielder is expected to take without trouble.
Doosra
Doosra is an off-spinner’s delivery that turns the opposite way to the usual off break, often catching the batter by surprise.
Dot Ball
Dot Ball is a delivery from which no runs are scored. It’s called a dot ball because scorecards mark it with a dot.
Double Century
Double Century is when a batter scores 200 or more runs in a single innings.
Double Ton
Double Ton is another name for a double century — 200 or more runs in an innings.
Down the Ground
Down the Ground is a shot played straight past the bowler towards the long-off or long-on boundary.
Down the Leg Side
Down the Leg Side means the ball is bowled on the side of the batter’s legs, often easier to glance or flick away.
Drag On
Drag On is when the batter edges or deflects the ball from the bat onto the stumps while attempting a shot.
Draw
Draw is when a Test or first-class match ends without a winner, usually because time ran out before a result was reached.
Drive
Drive is a front-foot shot played by swinging the bat through the line of the ball, often aimed along the ground.
Drinks Break
Drinks Break is a short pause in play for players to take refreshments, usually after a set number of overs.
Drop In Pitch
Drop In Pitch is a pitch prepared outside the stadium and later moved into place for the match.
Dropper
Dropper is a slower delivery bowled with extra loop so it drops sharply in front of the batter.
Dropped Catch
Dropped Catch is when a fielder fails to hold onto a ball they should have caught.
Duck
Duck is when a batter is out without scoring any runs.
Also read: Types of Duck in Cricket
Duckworth–Lewis–Stern Method (DLS)
DLS is a mathematical formula used to set revised targets in rain-affected limited-overs matches.
Dugout
Dugout is the team seating area beside the field, commonly used in T20 cricket.
E
Economy Rate
Economy Rate is the average number of runs a bowler concedes per over. A lower economy rate means better run control.
Edge
Edge is when the ball hits the side of the bat instead of the middle. Edges can result in catches or runs to the boundary.
Eleven
Eleven is the standard number of players in a cricket team. It’s also a term used to refer to the whole side.
End
End refers to one side of the pitch. Bowlers deliver overs from alternating ends during a match.
End of an Over
End of an Over means six legal balls have been bowled, and the fielding side changes ends.
Extras
Extras are runs scored by ways other than the batter’s shot, like wides, no-balls, byes, and leg byes.
F
Fall of Wicket
Fall of Wicket is the point in the scorecard showing when each batter was dismissed, including the team score at that time.
Fast Bowler
Fast Bowler is a player who delivers the ball at high speed, often above 135 km/h, using pace to trouble batters.
Fast Leg Theory
Fast Leg Theory, also called bodyline, is a tactic where short-pitched balls are aimed at the batter’s body with close leg-side fielders.
Feather
Feather is a faint edge from the bat, often caught by the wicketkeeper or slips.
Fielder
Fielder is any player from the bowling side positioned to stop runs or take catches.
Fielding
Fielding is the act of stopping the ball, preventing runs, and attempting dismissals.
Fielding Circle
Fielding Circle is the 30-yard line used in limited-overs matches to enforce fielding restrictions.
Fielding Restrictions
Fielding Restrictions are rules limiting the number of fielders outside the circle during certain overs, such as in a powerplay.
Fielding Side
Fielding Side is the team currently bowling and fielding, as opposed to batting.
Fielder’s Choice
Fielder’s Choice is when a fielder decides which end to throw to during a run-out attempt.
Fifty
Fifty is when a batter scores 50 runs in a single innings, a personal milestone.
Fifer
Fifer is when a bowler takes five wickets in one innings, short for “five-for.”
Fine Leg
Fine Leg is a fielding position behind the wicketkeeper on the leg side, close to the boundary.
First-Class Cricket
First-Class Cricket is the highest standard of multi-day domestic matches, lasting three or more days.
Flight
Flight is when a bowler gives the ball a higher loop through the air to deceive the batter in length or spin.
Follow-On
Follow-On is when the team batting second is asked to bat again immediately because they scored too few runs in their first innings.
G
Gardening
Gardening is when a batter uses the bat or foot to tap down rough spots on the pitch, often between deliveries, to maintain a smoother surface.
Gauge
Gauge is the act of judging the pace, bounce, and movement of the pitch early in an innings.
Gayle Storm
Gayle Storm is a nickname used when West Indies batter Chris Gayle plays an aggressive innings, hitting many sixes.
Gee Up
Gee Up means to encourage or motivate teammates during the game, often heard in team huddles.
Genuine Edge
Genuine Edge is when the ball hits the bat’s edge cleanly, usually resulting in a catch or runs through slips or gully.
Genuine All-Rounder
Genuine All-Rounder is a player equally skilled at both batting and bowling, contributing strongly in both areas.
Get Out
Get Out is slang for a batter being dismissed. It can also be used by bowlers when appealing.
Glance
Glance is a shot played by deflecting the ball off the bat towards the leg side, usually fine past the wicketkeeper or fine leg.
Glovework
Glovework refers to the skill of the wicketkeeper, including catching, stumping, and stopping deliveries cleanly.
Googly
Googly is a deceptive delivery by a leg spinner that spins the opposite way to a normal leg break.
Good Length
Good Length is a spot where the ball pitches, making it difficult for the batter to decide whether to play on the front or back foot.
Gouging
Gouging is damaging the ball’s surface illegally, often considered ball tampering.
Graft
Graft is when a batter works hard to score runs in tough conditions, showing patience and determination.
Grubber
Grubber is a delivery that stays very low after pitching, making it difficult to play.
Guard
Guard is the batting position marked by the batter to align themselves in front of the stumps, often using the popping crease.
Gully
Gully is a fielding position between slip and point, designed to catch edges played away from the body.
H
Half Century
Half Century is when a batter scores 50 or more runs in a single innings but less than 100.
Half Volley
Half Volley is a delivery that bounces close enough for the batter to play a full-blooded drive, often an ideal scoring ball.
Handled the Ball
Handled the Ball is an old method of dismissal (now part of “obstructing the field”) when a batter touched the ball with their hand without the bowler’s consent.
Hard Hands
Hard Hands means playing a shot with a firm grip, often causing edges to carry further, sometimes to the slips.
Hat-Trick
Hat-Trick is when a bowler takes wickets with three consecutive deliveries in the same match.
Hawk-Eye
Hawk-Eye is ball-tracking technology used for decisions like LBW reviews and to show the ball’s predicted path.
Heavy Ball
Heavy Ball is a delivery that feels faster or harder to play than its actual speed, often due to extra bounce or angle.
Helmet
Helmet is protective gear worn on the head, usually with a grille, to guard against fast or short-pitched balls.
High Score
High Score is the most runs a batter has made in a single innings in their career or in a match.
Hit the Deck
Hit the Deck means bowling with enough force to get extra bounce off the pitch.
Hit Wicket
Hit Wicket is when a batter accidentally breaks their own stumps with the bat, body, or clothing while playing a shot or setting off for a run.
Holding the Pose
Holding the Pose is when a batter freezes in their follow-through after playing a shot, often after a stylish stroke.
Hook Shot
Hook Shot is an attacking stroke played to a short-pitched ball, hitting it on the leg side, usually over square leg or fine leg.
Hot Spot
Hot Spot is thermal imaging technology used to detect whether the ball has hit the bat, pad, or glove.
Howzat
Howzat is the appeal cry from fielders to the umpire, short for “How’s that?” when asking for a decision.
I
Infield
Infield is the area of the cricket field inside the 30-yard circle, where most close fielders stand to stop quick singles.
In-Swinger
In-Swinger is a delivery that curves in through the air towards the batter’s body (for a right-hander, from off side to leg side).
In the Air
In the Air means the ball travels without touching the ground after being hit or bowled, giving a chance for a catch.
Indian Summer
Indian Summer is a late-career period where a player enjoys a sudden return to good form.
Inside Edge
Inside Edge is when the ball hits the inside part of the bat, often deflecting towards the stumps or fine leg.
Inside Out Shot
Inside Out Shot is when a batter moves towards the leg side to play a shot through the off side, often over cover.
Innings
Innings is the period in which one team bats until they are all out, declare, or the overs are completed.
Innings Break
Innings Break is the pause between the two teams’ batting turns, used for rest, strategy, and field setup changes.
Intent
Intent is the batter’s approach to scoring runs aggressively, shown through shot selection and footwork.
Invalid Delivery
Invalid Delivery is a ball ruled illegal, such as a no-ball or wide, which doesn’t count toward the over and often gives extra runs.
J
Jack
Jack is slang for the number 11 batter, usually the least skilled with the bat in the team.
Jaffa
Jaffa is slang for an outstanding delivery from a bowler that is almost unplayable, often beating the bat.
Jag Back
Jag Back is when a ball moves sharply into the batter after pitching, usually surprising them.
Jag Away
Jag Away is when the ball moves sharply away from the batter after pitching.
Javelin Throw
Javelin Throw refers to a fielder’s powerful, straight throw from the boundary to the wicketkeeper or bowler.
Jet Shoes
Jet Shoes is slang for a batter or fielder who runs extremely fast between the wickets or in the field.
Join the Dots
Join the Dots means bowling several dot balls in a row, building pressure on the batting side.
Juggled Catch
Juggled Catch is when a fielder bobbles the ball before finally catching it securely.
K
Keep Wicket
Keep Wicket means to perform the role of wicketkeeper, standing behind the stumps to catch, stump, or stop deliveries.
Keeper
Keeper is short for wicketkeeper — the player responsible for guarding the stumps behind the batter.
Key Partnership
Key Partnership is a batting stand between two players that’s crucial in changing the course of the match.
Kick On
Kick On means for a batter to build on a good start, converting it into a big score.
King Pair
King Pair is when a batter is out first ball in both innings of a match.
Knock
Knock is slang for a batting performance, such as “He played a fine knock today.”
Knock Over
Knock Over means to dismiss a batter, often by bowling them out.
Knuckle Ball
Knuckle Ball is a slower delivery bowled by gripping the ball with the knuckles, often used in T20 cricket to deceive batters.
L
Ladder
Ladder is a term for a pitch with uneven bounce, where some balls rise sharply and others stay low.
Late Cut
Late Cut is a delicate shot where the batter waits until the last moment to guide the ball past the slips on the off side.
Leading Edge
Leading Edge is when the ball hits the front edge of the bat, often causing an unintended shot that can lead to a catch.
Leave
Leave is when the batter intentionally does not play a shot at the ball, usually letting it pass through to the wicketkeeper.
Leg Before Wicket (LBW)
LBW is a method of dismissal where the ball hits the batter’s leg or pad in line with the stumps and would have hit the wicket if not blocked.
Leg Break
Leg Break is a spin delivery from a right-arm leg spinner that turns from leg side to off side for a right-handed batter.
Leg Bye
Leg Bye is an extra run scored when the ball hits the batter’s body (not the bat) and they run.
Leg Cutter
Leg Cutter is a delivery by a pace bowler that moves slightly away from the batter after pitching, similar to a slow leg break.
Leg Glance
Leg Glance is a shot where the batter deflects the ball fine on the leg side, often towards fine leg or long leg.
Leg Side
Leg Side is the half of the field behind the batter’s legs, also called the on side.
Length
Length refers to the spot on the pitch where the ball bounces, such as short length, good length, or full length.
Limited-Overs Cricket
Limited-Overs Cricket is a format where each team has a set number of overs, such as ODIs (50 overs) or T20s (20 overs).
Line and Length
Line and Length means the accuracy of where the ball is pitched both sideways (line) and in bounce location (length).
Line Up
Line Up can mean the team selected for a match or a batter preparing to face the next delivery.
Long Hop
Long Hop is a short-pitched delivery that is easy to hit, often considered a poor ball.
Long On / Long Off
Long On and Long Off are deep fielding positions straight down the ground, on the leg side and off side respectively.
M
Maiden Over
Maiden Over is an over in which no runs are scored from the bat. Extras like wides or no-balls prevent it from being a maiden.
Maker’s Name
Maker’s Name refers to the branded label on the bat’s face. Batters often aim to hit the ball with this part for power and control.
Man of the Match
Man of the Match is the award given to the player with the best performance in a game, often influencing the result.
Man of the Series
Man of the Series is the award given to the standout player over an entire tournament or series.
Mankad
Mankad is when the bowler runs out the non-striker before delivering the ball if they leave the crease early. It is legal but often debated.
Mark
Mark is the spot where a bowler starts their run-up. They measure it before the game and use it consistently.
Match Referee
Match Referee is the official responsible for ensuring the game is played within the rules and spirit of cricket.
Meat of the Bat
Meat of the Bat is the middle part of the bat’s face, where shots get the most power and timing.
Medium Pace
Medium Pace is bowling at a moderate speed, usually between 100–130 km/h, focusing on swing or seam rather than pure pace.
Middle Order
Middle Order refers to the batters who come in after the top three, usually from positions 4 to 7.
Middle Stump
Middle Stump is the centre stump in the wicket, between the off and leg stumps.
Misfield
Misfield is when a fielder fails to stop or collect the ball cleanly, allowing extra runs.
Missing Leg
Missing Leg is an LBW decision term meaning the ball would have missed the leg stump, so the batter is not out.
Missing Off
Missing Off is an LBW decision term meaning the ball would have missed the off stump, so the batter is not out.
Mitchell Johnson Over
Mitchell Johnson Over is slang for an over with multiple extras and poor deliveries, named humorously after the Australian bowler’s inconsistent spells early in his career.
Moeen Ali Beard
Moeen Ali Beard is a fan term for a thick, full beard similar to the England all-rounder’s trademark look.
Momentum Shift
Momentum Shift is when control of the game swings from one team to the other, often after a key wicket or big over.
Moon Ball
Moon Ball is a very slow, high-arcing delivery, often used for fun in casual matches.
Mother of All Sixes
Mother of All Sixes is slang for an extremely long six that travels far beyond the boundary.
Mud Wicket
Mud Wicket is a pitch that becomes soft and slow due to rain, making batting difficult and favouring spin.
N
Nets
Nets are practice areas enclosed with netting where batters face bowlers or throwdowns without the risk of the ball travelling far.
Nicked Off
Nicked Off is when a batter edges the ball to the wicketkeeper or slips and is caught out.
Nightwatchman
Nightwatchman is a lower-order batter sent in near the end of a day’s play to protect a better batter from getting out before stumps.
No-Ball
No-Ball is an illegal delivery, such as overstepping the crease or bowling above waist height, which gives the batting side an extra run and a free hit in limited overs.
Nought
Nought is another word for zero runs, used in the context of a batter’s score.
Nurdle
Nurdle is when a batter guides the ball softly into gaps, usually on the leg side, to score singles.
Nut
Nut is slang for the cricket ball, often used by players (“That was a great nut”).
O
Obstructing the Field
Obstructing the Field is when a batter deliberately gets in the way of a fielder’s attempt to field the ball or complete a run-out.
Occupy the Crease
Occupy the Crease means staying at the wicket for a long time, often playing defensively to frustrate the bowling side.
Off Break
Off Break is a spin delivery bowled by a right-arm off-spinner that turns from the off side to the leg side for a right-handed batter.
Off Cutter
Off Cutter is a pace bowler’s delivery that grips the pitch and moves like an off break after pitching.
Off Drive
Off Drive is a front-foot shot played through the off side, between extra cover and mid-off.
Off Side
Off Side is the half of the cricket field in front of the batter’s chest when they take guard.
Off Spin
Off Spin is the bowling style where the ball turns from the off side towards the batter’s legs for a right-hander.
Offer the Light
Offer the Light is when umpires stop play due to bad light and give batters the option to leave the field.
On Drive
On Drive is a straight bat shot played on the leg side, between mid-on and straight down the ground.
On Side
On Side, also called the leg side, is the half of the field behind the batter’s legs.
One-Day International (ODI)
One-Day International is a limited-overs cricket match of 50 overs per side, played between two international teams.
One Short
One Short is when a batter fails to ground their bat or body inside the crease while completing a run, meaning that run does not count.
Open the Face
Open the Face means angling the bat towards the off side to guide the ball into gaps, often behind point.
Opening Bowler
Opening Bowler is one of the two bowlers who begin the bowling attack at the start of an innings.
Opening Partnership
Opening Partnership is the total runs scored by the first two batters before the first wicket falls.
Opener
Opener is a batter who starts the innings, facing the new ball.
Outfield
Outfield is the area of the cricket field outside the 30-yard circle, usually patrolled by boundary fielders.
Outswinger
Outswinger is a delivery that swings away from the batter’s body in the air, usually bowled by pace bowlers.
Over
Over is a set of six legal deliveries bowled by the same bowler from one end.
Overarm
Overarm is the standard bowling style in which the bowler’s arm passes over the shoulder when delivering the ball.
Over Pitch
Over Pitch means bowling the ball too full, making it easy for the batter to drive.
Over the Wicket
Over the Wicket is when a right-arm bowler runs to the left of the stumps in their delivery stride (and vice versa for left-arm bowlers).
Overthrows
Overthrows are extra runs scored when a throw from a fielder misses the intended target and isn’t backed up.
P
Pad
Pad is the protective leg gear worn by batters and wicketkeepers to guard against the ball hitting their legs.
Pad Play
Pad Play is when a batter uses their pads instead of the bat to block a ball, often risking an LBW decision.
Pair
Pair is when a batter is dismissed for zero runs in both innings of a match.
Partnership
Partnership is the number of runs scored by two batters together before one of them is dismissed.
Past Point
Past Point is a fielding reference meaning the ball has gone past the point fielder on the off side.
Pavilion
Pavilion is the building at the ground where players change, rest, and watch the game when not on the field.
Peach
Peach is slang for an excellent delivery that is perfectly pitched and hard to play.
Penalty Runs
Penalty Runs are extra runs awarded to one team when the other commits a breach of the laws.
Pick the Gap
Pick the Gap means hitting the ball between fielders to find space and score runs.
Pigeon
Pigeon is slang for a bowler who keeps bowling in the same spot repeatedly, usually to build pressure.
Pinch Hitter
Pinch Hitter is a batter sent higher up the order than usual to score quick runs aggressively.
Pitch
Pitch has two meanings — the playing surface between the wickets or the act of the ball bouncing after delivery.
Pitch Map
Pitch Map is a graphic showing where a bowler’s deliveries have landed on the pitch.
Play and Miss
Play and Miss is when the batter attempts a shot but the ball passes the bat without contact.
Plumb
Plumb is when a batter is clearly out LBW, with no doubt in the umpire’s mind.
Point
Point is a fielding position on the off side, square of the wicket.
Popping Crease
Popping Crease is the line batters must reach to complete a run and avoid being run out.
Powerplay
Powerplay is a period in limited-overs cricket where fielding restrictions allow only a set number of fielders outside the circle.
Practice Match
Practice Match is a game played mainly for preparation, often before a tournament or series.
Pull Shot
Pull Shot is a horizontal bat shot to a short-pitched ball, hitting it to the leg side, usually between mid-wicket and square leg.
Q
Quick Single
Quick Single is a fast run taken immediately after the ball is hit softly into a gap, relying on sharp running between the wickets.
Quickie
Quickie is slang for a fast bowler, known for delivering the ball at high speed.
Quota
Quota is the maximum number of overs a bowler can deliver in a limited-overs match, such as 10 overs in ODIs or 4 overs in T20s.
R
Rabbit
Rabbit is slang for a batter, usually a tailender, who is very poor at batting and often gets out cheaply.
Rain Delay
Rain Delay is when play is stopped due to rain, with the match resuming once conditions improve.
Rain Rule
Rain Rule refers to methods used to adjust match targets when rain interrupts play, such as the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method.
Ramp Shot
Ramp Shot is a creative stroke where the batter guides the ball over the wicketkeeper’s head, often to counter pace bowling.
Rank Turn
Rank Turn is when a ball spins sharply off the pitch, making it difficult for the batter to handle.
Rate of Scoring
Rate of Scoring is the average number of runs made per over by the batting team.
Red Cherry
Red Cherry is slang for a red cricket ball, especially when new.
Referral
Referral is when a team asks for an umpire’s decision to be reviewed by the third umpire using video replays.
Reverse Sweep
Reverse Sweep is when a batter switches stance to play a sweep shot in the opposite direction to the normal sweep.
Reverse Swing
Reverse Swing is when an older cricket ball swings in the opposite direction to conventional swing due to wear and tear.
Rib Tickler
Rib Tickler is a short-pitched delivery aimed at the batter’s ribs, often uncomfortable to play.
Ring Field
Ring Field is when several fielders are positioned in a circle around the batter inside the 30-yard area.
Rip
Rip is strong spin on the ball, causing it to turn sharply after pitching.
Rising Delivery
Rising Delivery is a short-pitched ball that bounces high towards the batter’s chest or head.
Road
Road is slang for a flat, batting-friendly pitch with little help for bowlers.
Rope
Rope is the boundary marker around the field.
Rough
Rough is worn or scuffed areas on the pitch that can cause unpredictable bounce or spin.
Round the Wicket
Round the Wicket is when a bowler delivers from the side of the stumps opposite to their bowling arm, changing the angle of attack.
Run Chase
Run Chase is when the batting team is trying to reach a target set by the opposition.
Run Out
Run Out is when a fielder breaks the stumps with the ball while the batter is outside the crease during a run attempt.
Run Rate
Run Rate is the average number of runs scored per over.
Runner
Runner is a player who runs between the wickets for an injured batter (now mostly disallowed in modern cricket).
S
Safe Hands
Safe Hands refers to a fielder who rarely drops catches and is trusted in key catching positions.
Sandshoe Crusher
Sandshoe Crusher is slang for a yorker aimed at the batter’s toes, making it hard to defend and often painful.
Scoreboard Pressure
Scoreboard Pressure is the mental pressure on the batting side when they are chasing a high target or behind in required run rate.
Seam
Seam is the stitched part of the cricket ball. Bowlers use it to generate movement off the pitch.
Seam Movement
Seam Movement is when the ball deviates after pitching because it lands on its seam.
Season
Season is the cricket-playing period in a particular country, usually lasting several months.
See Out
See Out means batting carefully to survive a difficult period, such as facing a dangerous bowler or the final overs of the day.
Selector
Selector is a person who chooses the players for a team.
Send Off
Send Off is when a dismissed batter is taunted or gestured at by fielders while leaving the field.
Session
Session is a block of play in multi-day cricket, usually lasting around two hours, with three sessions in a day’s play.
Shadow Batting
Shadow Batting is when a player practices batting strokes without a ball, often to improve technique.
Shirtfront
Shirtfront is slang for a very flat, batter-friendly pitch offering no help to bowlers.
Shock Bowler
Shock Bowler is a bowler brought on to surprise the batting side, often with extra pace or unusual deliveries.
Short Ball
Short Ball is a delivery that pitches short and bounces higher, usually at chest or head height.
Short Leg
Short Leg is a close-in fielding position on the leg side, near the batter’s pad.
Short of a Length
Short of a Length is a delivery that pitches between a good length and a bouncer, making it awkward to play.
Shoulder Arms
Shoulder Arms is when a batter deliberately lifts the bat to let the ball pass without playing a shot.
Shout
Shout is an appeal to the umpire, usually “Howzat?”
Sight Screen
Sight Screen is a large board placed behind the bowler’s arm to give batters a clear view of the ball.
Silly Point
Silly Point is a very close fielding position on the off side, near the batter’s bat and pad.
Single
Single is one run scored from hitting the ball and running to the other end.
Six
Six is the maximum score from one shot, when the ball clears the boundary without touching the ground.
Skier
Skier is a high ball hit into the air that usually gives fielders time to get underneath and attempt a catch.
Skipper
Skipper is another name for the team captain.
Slash
Slash is an attacking cut shot played hard to a ball outside off stump, often in the air.
Sledging
Sledging is verbal banter or taunting between players, aimed at distracting or unsettling the opposition.
Slip
Slip is a catching position behind the batter on the off side, near the wicketkeeper.
Slot
Slot is the area where batters prefer the ball to pitch for big hitting, usually just short of a half volley.
Slow Ball
Slow Ball is a pace bowler’s variation delivered with less speed to deceive the batter.
Slower Ball Bouncer
Slower Ball Bouncer is a short-pitched ball bowled at a slower pace to surprise the batter.
Snick
Snick is a thin edge from the bat, often caught by the wicketkeeper or slips.
Slog
Slog is a powerful, often unorthodox hit aimed for maximum runs, usually in the air.
Slog Sweep
Slog Sweep is a big, aggressive sweep shot hit in the air, often toward mid-wicket.
Soft Hands
Soft Hands is a batting technique using a light grip to reduce the pace of the ball and avoid catches.
Spell
Spell is a bowler’s period of bowling before being replaced.
Spinners
Spinners are bowlers who rely on turn rather than speed to trouble batters.
Split Finger
Split Finger is a slower delivery where the bowler spreads their fingers wide on the ball to reduce speed.
Square Cut
Square Cut is a shot played square on the off side, cutting a short-pitched ball outside off stump.
Square Leg
Square Leg is a fielding position on the leg side, square with the batter’s crease.
Start of Play
Start of Play is the scheduled time when the day’s cricket begins.
Steepler
Steepler is a delivery that bounces very high after pitching, often used to trouble batters.
Stiff
Stiff means unlucky, as in a bowler beating the bat many times without taking a wicket.
Stock Ball
Stock Ball is a bowler’s standard delivery, used regularly between variations.
Stoke the Fire
Stoke the Fire is to lift team energy, often after a wicket or during a tense period.
Stonker
Stonker is slang for a ball hit with extreme power.
Stood Up
Stood Up refers to a wicketkeeper standing close to the stumps to collect deliveries, often against slower bowlers.
Strike Rate
Strike Rate is a batting stat showing average runs scored per 100 balls, or for bowlers, balls bowled per wicket.
Stump
Stump is one of the three vertical posts forming the wicket, or the act of the wicketkeeper removing the bails to dismiss a batter.
Stumping
Stumping is a dismissal by the wicketkeeper when the batter is out of the crease and not attempting a run.
Sun Ball
Sun Ball is slang for a high catch where the fielder must look directly into the sun to attempt it.
Sweeper
Sweeper is a deep fielder on the boundary who collects balls hit along the ground in the gaps.
Sweep Shot
Sweep Shot is a horizontal bat shot played from a crouched position to a ball pitched on or outside leg stump.
T
Tailender
Tailender is a lower-order batter, usually a bowler, who is not known for batting skill.
Target
Target is the number of runs the chasing team needs to win the match.
Tea Break
Tea Break is a short interval taken in multi-day cricket, usually in the afternoon session.
Team Sheet
Team Sheet is the official list of players selected to represent each side in the match.
Teesra
Teesra is a spin bowling variation used by some off-spinners that goes straight on instead of turning.
Test Cricket
Test Cricket is the longest format of the game, played over five days between two international teams.
Third Man
Third Man is a deep fielding position behind point, on the boundary, used to stop edges going for four.
Third Umpire
Third Umpire is the off-field official who uses technology to assist with decision-making, such as run-outs and reviews.
Throw Down
Throw Down is a type of practice where a coach or player tosses balls underarm or overarm for a batter to hit.
Throwing
Throwing is an illegal bowling action where the elbow is straightened beyond the allowed limit during delivery.
Tie
Tie is when both teams finish with the same score and all innings are complete.
Timed Out
Timed Out is a dismissal when the incoming batter takes longer than the allowed time (usually three minutes) to be ready to face the ball.
Timing
Timing is the batter’s ability to strike the ball at the perfect moment for maximum effect and control.
Ton
Ton is slang for a century, when a batter scores 100 runs in an innings.
Top Edge
Top Edge is when the ball hits the upper part of the bat, often sending it high into the air for a possible catch.
Top Order
Top Order refers to the first three or four batters in the batting lineup.
Toss
Toss is when team captains flip a coin before the match to decide who bats or bowls first.
Tour Match
Tour Match is a game played by a visiting team against local sides before or between official matches.
Track
Track is slang for the pitch in cricket.
Trapper
Trapper is a fielder positioned to catch balls hit straight to them in the infield.
Trap the Batsman
Trap the Batsman means setting a field and bowling plan to trick a batter into making a mistake.
Trundle
Trundle is slang for bowling at a slow pace, often used for medium pacers.
Twenty20 (T20)
Twenty20 is a short format of cricket with 20 overs per side, known for fast scoring and aggressive play.
Two for None
Two for None is a score where two wickets have fallen without any runs being scored.
U
Umpire
Umpire is the official who makes decisions on the field, such as dismissals, no-balls, and boundaries.
Umpire’s Call
Umpire’s Call is part of the Decision Review System (DRS), where the original on-field decision stands if the technology shows a marginal result.
Underarm
Underarm is a style of delivery where the bowler rolls or tosses the ball underhand, now illegal in competitive cricket.
Unorthodox
Unorthodox refers to unusual or unconventional playing styles, such as unique bowling actions or batting shots.
Unplayable Delivery
Unplayable Delivery is a ball so well bowled that the batter has almost no chance of playing it successfully.
Upper Cut
Upper Cut is a shot played to a short ball outside off stump, hitting it over the slips or gully.
Uppish
Uppish describes a shot played in the air but not high enough to clear the fielders.
V
Variation
Variation is a change in a bowler’s delivery, such as speed, spin, or angle, used to deceive the batter.
V
V refers to the scoring area between mid-off and mid-on, shaped like the letter V when looking from the batter’s end.
VB Series
VB Series was a famous Australian tri-nation ODI tournament, sponsored by Victoria Bitter beer, held during the Australian summer.
Verdict
Verdict is the final decision given by the umpire after an appeal.
Video Replay
Video Replay is the use of recorded footage to check decisions such as run-outs, stumpings, and boundaries.
Village Cricket
Village Cricket is amateur cricket played in rural areas, often with a casual and social atmosphere.
Vinyl Matting
Vinyl Matting is an artificial surface rolled over a field to create a pitch for matches where grass wickets are not available.
Virtually Unplayable
Virtually Unplayable is a term for a delivery that is extremely difficult for the batter to handle.
W
Waft
Waft is when a batter plays a loose, often reckless shot at a ball outside off stump, usually without foot movement.
Walk
Walk is when a batter leaves the field without waiting for the umpire’s decision, usually after knowing they are out.
Walking Wicket
Walking Wicket is slang for a batter who is often dismissed cheaply and is seen as an easy target.
Wagon Wheel
Wagon Wheel is a graphic that shows where a batter has scored their runs on the field.
Washout
Washout is when a match is abandoned due to rain without a result being possible.
Wasted Delivery
Wasted Delivery is a ball deliberately bowled wide or short to set up the batter for the next delivery.
Wicket
Wicket can mean three things: the set of stumps and bails, the pitch, or the dismissal of a batter.
Wicketkeeper
Wicketkeeper is the fielder positioned behind the stumps to catch balls the batter misses and to attempt stumpings or run-outs.
Wide
Wide is an illegal delivery bowled too far from the batter to hit, awarding an extra run to the batting team.
Wild Swing
Wild Swing is a big, uncontrolled hit at the ball, often resulting in a miss or edge.
Win by an Innings
Win by an Innings is when a team’s first innings total is greater than the combined total of both innings of the opposing team.
Win by Wickets
Win by Wickets is when the chasing team reaches the target with wickets still in hand.
Win by Runs
Win by Runs is when the team batting first defends its score and dismisses the opposition short of the target.
Wrist Spin
Wrist Spin is a style of spin bowling where the bowler uses their wrist to impart spin, such as leg spin or left-arm unorthodox spin.
Wrong ’Un
Wrong ’Un is another name for a googly, a leg spinner’s delivery that turns the opposite way to the usual leg break.
X
X-Factor Player
X-Factor Player is a cricketer who can change the course of a match with a single outstanding performance, such as a quick fifty or a sudden burst of wickets.
Xtra Cover
Xtra Cover (also written as Extra Cover) is a fielding position between cover and mid-off, often used to stop or catch drives through the off side.
Y
Yard
Yard is a slang term for distance on the cricket field, often used when talking about pace or movement off the pitch.
Yardstick
Yardstick is a reference point or measure used to compare a player’s performance with others.
Yell
Yell is a loud call, often from the wicketkeeper or captain, to coordinate fielding or encourage the bowler.
Yorker
Yorker is a delivery that pitches right at the batter’s feet or in the block hole, making it very hard to hit.
Z
Zing Bails
Zing Bails are electronic bails that light up when removed from the stumps, helping umpires with close run-out and stumping decisions.
Zone
Zone refers to a batter being in exceptional form, where they see the ball clearly and play with great confidence.
Zoomer
Zoomer is slang for a very fast delivery, often surprising the batter with extra pace.
Field Positions with Diagrams
In cricket, field positions can be tricky for beginners because they have unusual names. Here is a simple guide with descriptions.
Common Field Positions:
- Slip – Stands next to the wicketkeeper to catch edged balls.
- Gully – Positioned between slip and point.
- Point – Square to the batter on the off side.
- Cover – In front of point, slightly towards mid-off.
- Mid-off – Close to the bowler on the off side.
- Mid-on – Close to the bowler on the leg side.
- Square Leg – Side-on to the batter on the leg side.
- Fine Leg – Behind square on the leg side.
- Third Man – Behind square on the off side.
- Silly Point – Very close to the batter on the off side, for catching.
Example: When Virat Kohli plays a square cut, the ball often travels to point or gully.
Also read: Cricket Fielding Positions Explained
Batting Terminology
Batting has its own set of words, many of which describe shots or batting styles.
- Cover Drive – Elegant shot through the cover area.
- Straight Drive – Shot played straight past the bowler.
- Pull Shot – Hit to the leg side, usually to a short ball.
- Sweep – Shot played to a spinning ball, sweeping it along the ground.
- Reverse Sweep – Similar to sweep but played in the opposite direction.
- Lofted Shot – Hit in the air to clear fielders.
- Anchoring the Innings – Playing steady to build runs over time.
- Finisher – A batter who scores quickly at the end of an innings.
Example: MS Dhoni was known as one of the best finishers in limited-overs cricket.
Also read: Types of Cricket Shots
Bowling Terminology
Bowling styles and deliveries are key parts of cricket. Here are the main terms:
- Yorker – A delivery aimed at the batter’s feet in the block hole.
- Bouncer – Short ball rising to chest or head height.
- Off Break – Ball turning from off side to leg side for a right-handed batter.
- Leg Break – Ball turning from leg side to off side for a right-handed batter.
- Googly – Leg spinner’s delivery turning opposite to the normal leg break.
- Flipper – Back-spinning ball from a leg spinner, skidding low.
- Swing Bowling – Moving the ball sideways in the air.
- Reverse Swing – Ball swinging the opposite way, usually with an old ball.
Example: Wasim Akram mastered both conventional and reverse swing.
Also read: Different Types of Bowling in Cricket
Dismissal Types
A batter can be out in many ways. Here are the main ones:
- Bowled – Ball hits the stumps and dislodges the bails.
- Caught – Ball caught by a fielder before touching the ground.
- LBW – Ball hits the pad in line with stumps and would hit them.
- Run Out – Fielder hits the stumps before the batter completes a run.
- Stumped – Wicketkeeper removes bails while batter is out of crease.
- Hit Wicket – Batter hits their own stumps while playing a shot.
- Timed Out – Batter takes too long to arrive at the crease.
- Obstructing the Field – Batter blocks fielders on purpose.
Example: Adam Gilchrist was famous for quick stumpings, often catching batters off guard.
Also read: Types of Outs in Cricket
Scoring and Match Progress
Cricket scoring is more than just runs. Knowing these terms helps you follow the game closely.
- Run Rate – Average runs scored per over. Example: “They need a run rate of 8 to win.”
- Strike Rate – Runs scored per 100 balls faced by a batter.
- Economy Rate – Runs conceded per over by a bowler.
- Powerplay – First overs in limited matches with field restrictions.
- Net Run Rate (NRR) – Used in tournaments to break points ties.
- Partnership – Runs scored by two batters before a wicket falls.
- Maiden Over – Over in which no runs are scored off the bat.
- Hat-trick – Bowler taking three wickets in three balls.
- Century – Batter scores 100 runs in a single innings.
- Double Century – 200 runs in a single innings.
Equipment Terms
Understanding cricket gear helps in knowing match situations.
- Bat – Usually made of willow, used to hit the ball.
- Ball – Hard, leather-covered object used by bowlers.
- Pads – Protective gear worn on the legs.
- Gloves – Protects the hands while batting or keeping.
- Helmet – Protects the head and face.
- Bails – Wooden pieces on top of the stumps.
- Stumps – Three vertical posts making the wicket.
- Sight Screen – Large white or black board to help batters see the ball.
- Box – Guard worn by batters to protect groin area.
Match Formats and Rules
Different match formats use some terms more often than others.
- Test Match – Five-day game with two innings per side.
- One Day International (ODI) – Limited to 50 overs per side.
- T20 – Twenty overs per side, fast-paced.
- The Hundred – 100 balls per side, used in England.
- Super Over – Tie-breaker in limited-overs matches.
- Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) Method – Used to adjust targets in rain-affected games.
Also read: Types of Cricket Matches
Cricket Slang & Commentary Lingo
Commentators often use colourful terms during matches.
- Pinch Hitter – Aggressive batter sent up the order.
- Sledging – Taunting an opponent to distract them.
- Chin Music – Short balls aimed near the head.
- Nightwatchman – Lower-order batter sent in to protect a main batter near day’s end.
- Mankading – Bowler running out the non-striker before delivering the ball.
- Golden Duck – Out first ball without scoring.
Regional Variations in Cricket Terminology
Cricket words can differ between countries.
- UK & Australia – “Spinner” is common, while India might use “tweaker” in casual speech.
- India – “Doosra” and “carrom ball” are popular due to spin culture.
- Australia – “Baggy Green” refers to the Test cap.
- South Africa – “Proteas” is the national team nickname.
- West Indies – “Calypso cricket” describes flair and style.
Example: In India, “powerplay” often refers to both batting advantage and aggressive scoring phase, while in England it’s purely a rule term.
History and Origins of Key Terms
Some cricket words have fascinating backstories. Knowing them adds extra colour to the game.
- Googly – First used in the late 19th century to describe a deceptive leg-spin delivery that turned the opposite way.
- Sticky Wicket – Originates from the days of uncovered pitches when rain made batting hard.
- Hat-trick – Began in 1858 when a bowler was given a new hat for taking three wickets in three balls.
- All-rounder – Used since the early days to describe players skilled in more than one discipline.
- Yorker – Believed to have come from Yorkshire bowlers who were known for this delivery.
Conclusion
Understanding cricket terms is the key to enjoying the game fully. With this glossary, you can now follow commentary, read match reports, and talk cricket like a true fan. Whether you’re watching an IPL thriller, a Test match, or a friendly local game, knowing the language adds a new level of excitement.
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FAQs About Cricket Terms
1. What are basic cricket terms for beginners?
Wicket, over, run, boundary, LBW, and powerplay are the most common for new fans.
2. What is the rarest term in cricket?
“Timed out” is one of the rarest dismissals.
3. Why is it called a duck in cricket?
Because the number zero looks like a duck’s egg.
4. What is the difference between a yorker and a full toss?
A yorker pitches at the batter’s feet, while a full toss reaches without bouncing.
5. Which terms are unique to T20 cricket?
Powerplay, death overs, and super over are more common in T20 matches.
6. How many ways can a batter be out?
There are ten official dismissal methods.
7. What does strike rate mean in cricket?
It measures how fast a batter scores runs.
8. What is Mankading?
Running out the non-striker before delivering the ball.
9. Why do commentators say “chin music”?
It describes bouncers aimed near the batter’s head.
10. What is a golden duck?
Getting out first ball without scoring.
I am Manan Joshi , SEO All-Rounder at CricHeroes.
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