Overthrows in Cricket
Also known as: overthrows, overthrow, how do overthrows work, overthrow runs, overthrow four, overthrow boundary rule
Overthrows are extra runs scored when a fielder's throw misses its target and the batters keep running. The ball stays in play until it is dead, so the batters can add more runs. If a throw at the stumps crosses the boundary, the side gets the boundary allowance plus runs already completed.
Most overthrows need no special rule. A fielder throws at the stumps or to a teammate and the ball runs away. It is still in play under Law 20, so the batters may keep running. Each run they complete counts.
Law 19.8 covers throws that reach the boundary. A boundary results from an overthrow when a fielder directs the ball towards the wickets to run a batter out or stop runs. It crosses the boundary. The side gets the boundary allowance and the runs already completed. The run in progress also counts if the batters had crossed when the ball was thrown.
It is not an overthrow if the ball crosses the boundary while a fielder is trying to stop it. A short pass between fielders near the rope does not count either. The same scoring applies to a wilful act by a fielder, meaning a deliberate action not meant to prevent runs, effect a run out or complete a catch.
Tips by skill level
After every throw, keep watching the ball. If it runs away, look for another run.
As a fielder, back up throws at the stumps from behind. That stops overthrows from turning into extra runs.
Example
The batters complete one run. On the second, a fielder throws at the stumps, misses, and the ball runs over the rope. The team gets four for the boundary plus the one completed run.
Why it matters
Overthrows can turn a single into five. Batters should keep watching the ball, and fielders should back up throws.
Common mistakes
- Batters stopping running when a throw goes past the stumps
- Fielders not backing up throws to the stumps
- Thinking every ball over the rope after a throw is an overthrow
Frequently asked questions
How do overthrows work in cricket?
If a throw misses and the ball runs away, it stays in play and the batters may keep running. If a throw at the stumps crosses the boundary, the side gets the boundary plus runs already completed.
Is it an overthrow if a fielder knocks the ball over the rope?
No. If the ball crosses the boundary while a fielder is trying to stop it, that is a normal boundary, not an overthrow.
Sources
Related terms
- Direct Hit Run-OutA direct hit run-out is when a fielder's throw hits the stumps directly, not relayed through the wicket-keeper. It dismisses a batter who is short of their crease.
- Throwing Mechanics – FieldingThrowing mechanics in cricket fielding refers to the technique for generating an accurate, powerful, low-trajectory throw from the outfield or inner ring to the wicket-keeper or bowler's end stumps.
- Boundary (Four and Six)A boundary is scored when the ball reaches or crosses the edge of the playing area. If the batter hits the ball and it lands beyond the boundary without touching the ground first, it is six runs. If it bounces or rolls over first, or reaches it without being hit by the bat, it is four. A ball that touches the rope, or a fielder who is touching the ground beyond it, counts as reaching the boundary.
- Run OutA run out happens when a fielder puts down the wicket while a batter is out of their ground, whether or not a run is being attempted (Law 38.1). The batter is out.
- Calling Between the WicketsMany coaches teach that the striker calls for balls hit in front of the wicket and the non-striker calls for balls behind square, where the striker cannot see. Use three clear words: "yes", "no" and "wait". It is a coaching convention, not a Law. Agree it with your partner before you bat.
Cricket analysis is in development
Motion Lab does not analyze this sport yet. Keep exploring the terms in this section.