# Cricket Free Hit Rules
The free hit is a well-known limited-overs cricket rule used in T20 and ODI matches by the ICC. It comes immediately after a no-ball, and it gives the batter a low-risk delivery where most standard dismissal methods do not apply. Free hits do **not** apply in Test cricket. This guide explains the official rules, dismissal limits, fielding rules, signalling, and common beginner misunderstandings.
When a free hit is awarded
A free hit is given on the delivery right after a no-ball is called. All types of no-balls trigger a free hit under ICC playing conditions, including front-foot no-balls, waist-high full tosses, and fielding restriction no-balls. Wides **do not** create a free hit.
An important carry-over rule: if the free hit delivery itself is another no-ball or a wide, the free hit is not used up. The free hit status passes to the next delivery, until a legal fair ball is bowled.
Dismissal rules on a free hit
This is the most critical rule. On a free hit, the batter **cannot be out bowled, caught, LBW, stumped, or hit wicket**.
The only valid ways the striker can be dismissed are:
1. Run out
2. Hit the ball twice
3. Obstructing the field
Even if the batter hits the ball onto the stumps, the batter is not out bowled. Any runs scored still count, including boundaries and sixes. If the ball hits the stumps and the batter completes a run, the runs are added normally to the team total.
Field placement rules
The fielding team **cannot change the field setup** for the free hit, unless one of two exceptions applies:
- There is a change of striker (the batters cross over and swap ends before the free hit)
- The original no-ball was caused by a fielding restriction violation, so the field is adjusted only to fix that breach
The bowler, however, is allowed to change their bowling style for the free hit. They can switch from pace to spin, or alter their line and length, as long as they bowl a legal delivery.
Umpire signal
After giving the normal no-ball signal, the umpire signals the free hit by extending one arm straight upward and rotating it in a circular motion. Broadcasts also usually show an on-screen “Free Hit” graphic for viewers.
Runs and scoring
The no-ball itself carries a 1-run penalty automatically added to the batting team’s extras. Any runs the batter makes on the free hit (singles, fours, sixes) are added normally to the batter’s score. The free hit delivery counts as a delivery of the over, but if it is a wide or no-ball, it does not count as a completed legal ball of the over.
Common mistakes and misconceptions
- ❌ Myth: Free hit is given for wides. Correct: Only no-balls earn a free hit.
- ❌ Myth: If the batter hits it straight to a fielder, they can be caught out. Correct: Caught is not a valid dismissal on free hit.
- ❌ Myth: The field captain can move fielders for the free hit. Correct: The field stays the same unless the striker changes.
- ❌ Myth: Free hit applies in Test cricket. Correct: Free hit is only for limited-overs formats.
- ❌ Myth: If the free hit is a no-ball, the free hit is gone. Correct: It carries forward to the next ball.
Quick strategy note
Batters look to attack aggressively on free hits because the risk of getting out is almost removed. Fielding teams will often plan for big shots, but they cannot reposition the field to block the batter’s favourite scoring areas. Bowlers sometimes try a surprise slower ball or yorker to limit the damage, knowing they cannot get the batter out conventionally.
The free hit rule was introduced to reduce careless no-balls from bowlers, and it has become one of the most exciting tactical moments in T20 and ODI cricket. Understanding its dismissal limits and field rules helps you follow the match and spot incorrect umpire calls.