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Cricket · Laws of Cricket

Law 20: Dead Ball

4 parts · 20 tests · 200 facts · updated 12 October 2026 · markdown

Law 20 lists when the ball becomes dead, when it is considered dead because players stop regarding it as in play, that the umpire alone decides when it is finally settled, that Over and Time are called only when the ball is dead, the fourteen cases in which either umpire calls and signals Dead ball, when the ball ceases to be dead, that a dead ball is not revoked, and when a dead ball counts as one of the over.

20.201Dead Ball: When the Ball Becomes Dead

The eight circumstances in which the ball becomes dead, a ball regarded as no longer in play, the umpire alone deciding when it is finally settled, the rule that Over and Time are called only when the ball is dead, and the bowler's end umpire calling Dead ball.

Test 1Settled in the hands, a boundary, a dismissalTake a test

  1. Law 20.1.1.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.1 · recall

  2. Law 20.1.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.2 · recall

  3. Law 20.1.1.3 treats the ball as dead from the moment of the event that got the batter out, not from the umpire's signal or the end of the appeal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.3 · recall

  4. Law 20.1.1.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.1 · recall

  5. See Law 19.7 (Runs scored from boundaries).

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.2 · recall

  6. 20.1.1.1 to 20.1.1.8.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1 · recall

  7. The ball is deemed dead from the instant of the incident.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.3 · applied

  8. Law 20.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1 · recall

  9. The ball becomes dead when a boundary is scored.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.2 · applied

  10. The ball stays dead for that delivery.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.2 · applied

Test 2Trapped, lodged, penalties and the end of the matchTake a test

  1. Law 20.1.1.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.4 · recall

  2. Law 20.1.1.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.5 · recall

  3. Law 20.1.1.5 names the clothing of an umpire.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.5 · recall

  4. Player returning without permission and Fielding the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.6 · recall

  5. The ball shall not count as one of the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.6 · recall

  6. Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.7 · recall

  7. Law 28.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.7 · recall

  8. Law 20.1.1.8 refers to Law 12.9.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.8 · recall

  9. The match concluded in any of the ways in Law 12.9.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.8 · applied

  10. The ball becomes dead whether played or not.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.4 · recall

Test 3Regarded as in play, and settledTake a test

  1. Law 20.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · recall

  2. Clear to the bowler's end umpire.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · recall

  3. The fielding side and both batters at the wicket.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · recall

  4. A matter for the umpire alone to decide.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.2 · recall

  5. It is for the umpire alone.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.2 · applied

  6. Law 20.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.2 · recall

  7. Law 20.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · recall

  8. Both the fielding side and both batters.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · applied

  9. The fielding side and both batters.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · recall

  10. Both sides have ceased to regard it as in play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.2 · applied

Test 4Calling Over or Time, and the bowler's end umpireTake a test

  1. Neither call is to be made until the ball is dead.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.3 · recall

  2. Call of Over is Law 17.4; call of Time is Law 12.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.3 · recall

  3. Dead, either under 20.1 or under 20.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.3 · recall

  4. Law 20.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.3 · applied

  5. Law 20.4.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.1 · recall

  6. If it is necessary to inform the players.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.1 · recall

  7. The umpire may call and signal if necessary.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.1 · applied

  8. Law 20.4.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.1 · recall

  9. Call of Over and call of Time.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.3 · recall

  10. Law 20.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.3 · recall

Test 5Which events make the ball deadTake a test

  1. A dismissal makes the ball dead.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.3 · applied

  2. Finally settled in the hands of the bowler.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.1 · applied

  3. Law 20.1.1.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.6 · recall

  4. Law 20.1.1.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.7 · recall

  5. Law 20.1.1.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.6 · applied

  6. Law 20.1.1.6 covers Law 28.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.6 · applied

  7. A dismissal and the conclusion of the match both make it dead.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.1.1.3 and 20.1.1.8 · applied

  8. A wide is not a listed circumstance.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1 · recall

  9. Trapped or lodged in a batter's clothing or equipment.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1 · recall

  10. Law 20.1.1.5: a ball that lodges in a batter's clothing or equipment, played or not, is dead; a helmet strap is equipment, so the ball is dead from that instant.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.5 · applied

20.202Dead Ball: The Umpire Calls It (Unfair Play to Distraction)

Either umpire calling and signalling Dead ball, the moment the ball is dead and the delayed-call exceptions, unfair play, injury, consultation, bails falling, a striker who is not ready, and a distracted striker.

Test 1Either umpire, and the moment the ball is deadTake a test

  1. Where either umpire is required to call and signal Dead ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  2. Considered dead at the instant of the incident.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  3. 20.4.2.1 to 20.4.2.14.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  4. Where the Law specifically provides for the call to be delayed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  5. So as not to disadvantage the non-offending side.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  6. The four Laws named in Law 20.4.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  7. Law 42.1.2 (Unacceptable conduct).

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  8. Law 20.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4 · recall

  9. Law 20.4.2 lists them.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  10. Where the Law provides for a delayed call, dead at the point of the call.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · applied

Test 2Unfair play, injury and consultationTake a test

  1. Law 20.4.2.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.1 · recall

  2. Law 20.4.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.2 · recall

  3. Law 20.4.2.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.3 · recall

  4. Law 20.4.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.2 · recall

  5. Law 20.4.2.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.3 · recall

  6. A possibly serious injury to a player or umpire.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.2 · recall

  7. The umpire calls and signals Dead ball when leaving to consult.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.3 · applied

  8. Either umpire shall call and signal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · applied

  9. Law 20.4.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.2 · applied

  10. Taking guard is not a listed case.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.1 to 20.4.2.3 · recall

Test 3Bails falling, and a striker who is not readyTake a test

  1. Law 20.4.2.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.4 · recall

  2. Law 20.4.2.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.4 · recall

  3. Law 20.4.2.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.5 · recall

  4. Both conditions are met.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.5 · applied

  5. Law 20.4.2.5: the ball is left out of the over only if the umpire accepts that the striker had a good reason for not being ready and made no attempt to play it; otherwise it is a valid ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.5 · recall

  6. Law 20.7.2 needs both conditions.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · applied

  7. Only where there is no attempt does the ball not count.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · applied

  8. Law 20.7.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · recall

  9. Before the striker has had the opportunity of playing the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.4 · applied

  10. Law 20.4.2.4 refers to the striker's wicket.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.4 · applied

Test 4A distracted strikerTake a test

  1. Law 20.4.2.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · recall

  2. Whether the source is within the match or outside it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · recall

  3. The ball shall not count as one of the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · recall

  4. Distraction by noise or movement.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · applied

  5. Law 20.4.2.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.7 · recall

  6. The ball shall not count as one of the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.7 · recall

  7. Note also 20.4.2.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · recall

  8. Law 20.4.2.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.7 · recall

  9. The source may be within the match or outside it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · applied

  10. Law 20.4.2.6 covers a source within the match.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · applied

Test 5Cases from 20.4.2.1 to 20.4.2.7Take a test

  1. Both conditions are met.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 and 20.7.2 · applied

  2. Law 20.4.2.6 and Law 20.7.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.6 and 20.7.1.2 · applied

  3. Law 20.7.1.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.4 and 20.7.1.1 · applied

  4. Law 20.4.2.4 needs the bail to fall before the opportunity.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.4 · applied

  5. Law 20.7.1.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.2 and 20.7.1.1 · applied

  6. The listed exceptions include the distraction cases.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · recall

  7. Those three mention the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 to 20.4.2.7 · recall

  8. Law 20.4.2.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.5 · recall

  9. Law 20.4.2.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.6 · recall

  10. 20.4.2.5 is conditional; 20.4.2.6 and 20.4.2.7 are not.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 to 20.4.2.7 · recall

20.203Dead Ball: The Umpire Calls It (The Bowler to the Catch-All)

Dead ball when the bowler drops or throws the ball or it does not leave the hand, a ball that cannot be recovered, interference by a person, animal or object, a striker off the pitch, the catch-all sub-clause, and cases.

Test 1The bowler and the ball in handTake a test

  1. Law 20.4.2.8.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.8 · recall

  2. Law 20.4.2.9.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.9 · recall

  3. Law 20.4.2.8.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.8 · recall

  4. The sub-clause excepts an attempt to run out the non-striker.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.10 · recall

  5. Law 38.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.10 · recall

  6. Law 20.4.2.10.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.10 · recall

  7. Law 20.4.2.10.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.10 · applied

  8. The bowler drops the ball accidentally.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.8 · recall

  9. Before entering his/her delivery stride.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.9 · recall

  10. 20.4.2.8, 20.4.2.9 and 20.4.2.10.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.8 to 20.4.2.10 · recall

Test 2A ball that cannot be recovered, and interferenceTake a test

  1. Law 20.4.2.11.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.11 · recall

  2. Law 20.4.2.11.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.11 · recall

  3. The ball in play cannot be recovered.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.11 · applied

  4. Law 20.4.2.12.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · recall

  5. The boundary should stand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · recall

  6. See Law 19.2.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · recall

  7. Both umpires must consider it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · applied

  8. If both umpires consider ...

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · recall

  9. Law 20.4.2.12: the umpire calls Dead ball when either side has been disadvantaged by a person, animal or object on the field; here the batters lost runs. A boundary is given only if both umpires think the ball would have reached it anyway.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · applied

  10. Law 20.4.2.12.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · recall

Test 3Off the pitch, and the catch-allTake a test

  1. Law 20.4.2.13.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · recall

  2. Law 20.4.2.13.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · recall

  3. The pitch as defined in Law 6.1 (Area of pitch).

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · recall

  4. Whether grounded or raised.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · recall

  5. The sub-clause needs no part to remain within.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · applied

  6. Law 20.4.2.13.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · recall

  7. Required to do so under any of the Laws not included above.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.14 · recall

  8. Law 20.4.2.14.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.14 · recall

  9. It covers any Laws not included above.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.14 · recall

  10. No part of the person remains within the pitch.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · applied

Test 4Which sub-clause mentions whatTake a test

  1. Bowler drops the ball, throws it, or the ball does not leave the hand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2 · recall

  2. Law 20.4.2.10 is the sub-clause that names the non-striker.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.10 · recall

  3. The boundary should stand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · recall

  4. One or both bails fall.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.4 · recall

  5. A possibly serious injury.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.2 · recall

  6. Law 20.4.2.13.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · recall

  7. Leaving the normal position for consultation.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.3 · recall

  8. Intervening in a case of unfair play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.1 · recall

  9. Distraction and deliberate distraction.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.6 and 20.4.2.7 · recall

  10. Law 20.4.2.14.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.14 · recall

Test 5Dead ball in casesTake a test

  1. The bowler dropped the ball before delivery.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.8 · applied

  2. Before entering the delivery stride.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.9 · applied

  3. The ball in play cannot be recovered.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.11 · applied

  4. A bird counts as an animal under Law 20.4.2.12; the umpires judged the batting side worse off, so the call is Dead ball, not a boundary, since they did not think the ball was reaching the rope anyway.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · applied

  5. No part of the person remains within the pitch.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.13 · applied

  6. Law 20.7.1.1: a delivered ball that is called dead before the striker has had an opportunity to play it does not count as one of the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.4 and 20.7.1.1 · applied

  7. Law 17.3.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.8 and 17.3.1 · applied

  8. The run-out attempt is the listed exception.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.10 · applied

  9. Either side has been disadvantaged.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12 · applied

  10. Any of the Laws not included above.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.14 · recall

20.204Dead Ball: Coming Into Play, No Revoking and the Over Count

When the ball ceases to be dead, why a dead ball cannot be revoked, how a dead ball counts in the over, the two conditions for a striker who is not ready, and mixed cases.

Test 1The ball comes into playTake a test

  1. Law 20.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · recall

  2. If there is no run-up, when the bowler starts the action.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · recall

  3. Law 20.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · recall

  4. The run-up or action must start.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · applied

  5. The ball ceases to be dead when the bowler starts the run-up.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · applied

  6. Law 20.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · applied

  7. The over starts with the run-up or action.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 17.2 and 20.5 · recall

  8. The ball ceases to be dead, that is, it comes into play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · recall

  9. Law 20.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · applied

  10. Laws 17.2 and 20.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 17.2 and 20.5 · recall

Test 2A dead ball is not revokedTake a test

  1. Law 20.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · recall

  2. Law 20.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · recall

  3. Once dead, no revoking of any decision can bring the ball back.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · applied

  4. No revoking can bring it back into play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · applied

  5. For that delivery.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · recall

  6. No revoking can bring the ball back.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · applied

  7. Dead ball not to be revoked.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · recall

  8. The ball became dead when the boundary was scored.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · applied

  9. For that delivery.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · applied

  10. Law 20.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.6 · recall

Test 3A dead ball and the count of the overTake a test

  1. Law 20.7.1.1: the ball will not count in the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.1 · recall

  2. Law 20.7.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · recall

  3. Law 20.7.1.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.1 · recall

  4. Law 20.7.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · recall

  5. Unless No ball or Wide ball has been called.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · applied

  6. The five exceptions are listed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · recall

  7. Law 20.7.1.2 excepts 20.4.2.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · applied

  8. Deliberate attempt to distract and deliberate distraction.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · recall

  9. See Law 20.7 (Dead ball; ball counting as one of over).

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 17.3.2.1 · recall

  10. Law 20.7.1.2 excepts Law 24.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.2 · applied

Test 4The striker not ready: the two conditionsTake a test

  1. Law 20.7.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · recall

  2. Both conditions of not attempting to play and having an adequate reason.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · recall

  3. One condition fails.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · applied

  4. An adequate reason is required.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · applied

  5. Both conditions are met.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · applied

  6. Law 20.7.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · recall

  7. Provided the umpire is satisfied.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 and 20.7.2 · recall

  8. Makes no attempt to play it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 and 20.7.2 · recall

  9. Both conditions.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · recall

  10. Otherwise the delivery will be a valid ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.2 · recall

Test 5Law 20 in mixed casesTake a test

  1. The clauses run 20.1 to 20.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20 · recall

  2. Law 20.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.5 · recall

  3. Law 20.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.2 · recall

  4. Law 20.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7 · recall

  5. The striker had an opportunity and no exception applies.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.9 and 20.7.1.1 · applied

  6. The striker had an opportunity to play it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.8 and 17.3.1 · applied

  7. Law 20.7.1.2 excepts 20.4.2.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.6 and 20.7.1.2 · applied

  8. The ball is dead under 20.1.1.5, and the striker had an opportunity.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.1.1.5 and 20.7.1.2 · applied

  9. Law 17.3.2.1 cites Law 20.7.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7 · recall

  10. The ball shall not count as one of the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.6 · applied

Sources

MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd edition, 2022), Law 20 with Laws 6.1, 12.2, 12.9, 17.4, 19.2.7, 19.7, 24.4, 28.2, 28.3, 38.3, 41.4 and 41.5 as cross-references (paraphrased in original wording; original questions authored from the Laws, not reproduced)

  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.211
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.211
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.1210
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.610
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.139
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.59
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.68
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.28
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.27
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.66
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.36
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.46
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.106
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.25
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.145
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.24
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.24
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.14
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.34
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.54
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.84
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.114
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.13
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.33
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.13
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.53
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.73
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.73
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 and 20.7.23
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.93
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.42
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.1.1.82
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.4.2.12
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.6 and 20.7.1.22
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.4 and 20.7.1.12
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.5 to 20.4.2.72
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.8 and 17.3.12
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 17.2 and 20.52
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.7.1.12
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.72
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.11
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.1.1.3 and 20.1.1.81
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20.41
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.1 to 20.4.2.31
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.2 and 20.7.1.11
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.8 to 20.4.2.101
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.6 and 20.4.2.71
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 17.3.2.11
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 201
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.4.2.9 and 20.7.1.11
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 20.1.1.5 and 20.7.1.21