Indoor Cricket Rules: Everything You Need to Know Before You Play

Cricket is a game loved by millions, but what if you could enjoy it without worrying about bad weather, bad light, or even losing the ball? That’s where indoor cricket comes in! This high-energy, fast-paced version of the sport is growing rapidly across the world, offering a thrilling experience for players of all skill levels. Whether you're a casual player or a competitive athlete, indoor cricket keeps the excitement alive with non-stop action, fair play, and a weather-proof environment!

If you're new to the game or want to improve your skills, understanding indoor cricket rules is important before you start playing. This blog will walk you through everything—from scoring to gameplay—so you can play with confidence and enjoy the game!

What Is Indoor Cricket?

Indoor cricket is a modified version of traditional cricket played in an enclosed court. The rules are designed to make the game quicker, fairer, and more action-packed. Unlike outdoor cricket, there's no need to worry about rain delays or uneven pitches.

The game is played with a soft ball, and every player gets a chance to bat and bowl, making it an inclusive and team-oriented sport.

How Is Indoor Cricket Different from Traditional Cricket?

While the core essence of cricket remains, indoor cricket has several unique differences:

• Smaller Court: Matches take place in a netted area, preventing the ball from going out of bounds.
• Faster Pace: The game moves quickly, with shorter overs and limited time for each match.
• Continuous Play: The ball remains in play even after hitting the net, adding to the excitement.
• Equal Batting & Bowling: Every player gets to bat and bowl, ensuring fair participation.

If you’re used to outdoor cricket, you’ll need to adapt to these changes, but once you do, the game becomes incredibly fun!

Indoor Cricket Rules Explained

Now, let’s break down the essential rules of indoor cricket so you can hit the ground running.

1. Number of Players

• Each team consists of six to eight players (most leagues use six).
• All players must bowl at least two overs, ensuring equal play.

2. Match Duration & Overs

• Standard matches consist of 16 overs per team.
• Each over has six balls, making it a fast-paced format.
• Matches typically last 60–90 minutes, making it perfect for quick gameplay.

3. Batting Rules

• Each batting pair faces four overs before rotating.
• Batters continue playing even after getting out, but losing a wicket results in a five-run deduction.
• Running between wickets is the same as traditional cricket, but boundary scoring is slightly different.

4. Scoring System

Scoring in indoor cricket follows a unique pattern:

• 0 Runs: If the batter misses the ball or plays a dot ball.
• 1 Run: Running between wickets.
• 2 Runs: If the ball hits the side net before bouncing.
• 3 Runs: If the ball hits the back net after bouncing.
• 4 Runs: Hitting the back net on the full (without touching the floor) but only if the batter runs.
• 6 Runs: Directly hitting the back net without bouncing, with at least one run completed.

How to score Indoor Cricket Match / league on CricHeroes

Want to keep track of your team’s performance easily? Use CricHeroes, a powerful cricket scoring app that allows you to score matches in real time, track player stats, and analyze performance trends. Whether you're playing a casual indoor game with friends or competing in a league, CricHeroes makes match scoring seamless!

5. Bowling & Fielding

• Each player must bowl two overs, ensuring fairness.
• Bowling is done underarm or overarm (depending on league rules).
• Fielders can use the net to their advantage, making catches trickier but exciting.
• Wicketkeepers play a crucial role in catching rebounds off the net.

6. Dismissals (Ways to Get Out)

Just like outdoor cricket, players can be dismissed in various ways:

• Bowled – If the ball hits the stumps.
• Caught – If a fielder catches the ball before it touches the ground.
• Run Out – If the batter fails to reach the crease before the stumps are broken.
• Stumped – If the wicketkeeper removes the bails while the batter is out of their crease.
• LBW (Leg Before Wicket) – Some leagues allow this, while others don’t.
• Hitting the Roof – If the ball hits the roof directly, it may result in a wicket (league-dependent rule).

Also Read : Types Outs In Cricket

Essential Skills to Succeed in Indoor Cricket

If you want to improve your indoor cricket performance, focus on these key skills:

1. Quick Reflexes

With the ball bouncing off nets, reactions need to be sharp. Fielders must stay alert at all times.

2. Smart Running Between Wickets

Since scoring is different from outdoor cricket, quick singles and smart placement are vital.

3. Effective Bowling Strategy

Bowlers should use the walls and nets to create difficult angles for batters. Variation in pace can also keep batters guessing.

4. Team Coordination

Since fielders can use the net to their advantage, strong communication is key to preventing misfields.

Why Indoor Cricket Is Gaining Popularity

Indoor cricket is growing worldwide, with leagues in Australia, the UK, India, Canada, South Africa, & New Zealand leading the way. The reasons for its rising popularity include:

• Weather-Proof: Matches happen indoors, making weather irrelevant.
• Fast-Paced: Unlike five-day Test matches, games finish within 90 minutes.
• Equal Play for All: Every player gets a chance to bat and bowl.
• Less Injury Risk: The soft ball and enclosed area reduce injuries.

With more indoor cricket arenas popping up, the sport is becoming more accessible to enthusiasts everywhere.

Final Thoughts

Indoor cricket is an exciting, fast, and engaging version of the game that keeps players on their toes. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive athlete, knowing indoor cricket rules will help you enjoy the game and improve your performance.

Want to take your indoor cricket matches to the next level? Download CricHeroes to score matches, track stats, and analyze your game like a pro!

FAQs About Indoor Cricket

1. What equipment do you need to play indoor cricket?
You’ll need a soft cricket ball, indoor bat, gloves, sports shoes, and protective gear (like pads and a helmet in some leagues).

2. Where can I play indoor cricket?
Most urban areas have indoor sports centers with dedicated cricket courts. You can check local sports clubs or book arenas online.

3. How long does an indoor cricket match last?
A standard match lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the number of overs.

4. Can I play indoor cricket without prior cricket experience?
Yes! It’s a beginner-friendly sport, and the modified rules make it enjoyable for everyone.

5. Will playing indoor cricket improve my outdoor cricket skills?
Absolutely! Indoor cricket enhances reflexes, footwork, and batting precision, which are useful in outdoor formats.

6. Why do wickets cost five runs in indoor cricket?
This rule ensures that batters stay engaged throughout their innings and avoid reckless shots.

7. How do teams win in indoor cricket?
The team with the most runs at the end of their innings wins—simple as that!