SPORTS

Should Tests also have free hit for no-ball?

Source:PTI  -  Edited By: Harish Kotian
January 12, 2022 22:27 IST

IMAGE: Umpire Rod Tucker signals a no-ball during the fourth Test between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 6, 2022. Photograph: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn has suggested introducing the free hit rule in Test cricket, saying it will help the tail-enders 'survive' the longer overs when the bowlers bowl no-balls.

 

In limited overs cricket, a free hit is awarded to the batting side if the bowler sends down a no-ball.

For any free hit, the striker can be dismissed only under the circumstances that apply for a no-ball, even if the delivery for the free hit is called a wide ball.

"Free hit for No Ball in Test Cricket…What you think? Will definitely help the bowlers (when batting) survive those extended 7/8 and sometimes 9 ball overs we've seen happen before…," Steyn tweeted on Wednesday.

"6 balls is Hard enough for the tail-enders facing a top class life threatening fast bowler."

Steyn's comments came during the series-deciding final Test between India and South Africa.

The 38-year-old also lauded Indian pace ace Jasprit Bumrah, who registered the figures of 5/42, for his outstanding performance on Day 2, which India helped gain a slender first innings lead of 13 runs.

"Anyway, makes for a interesting discussion. Serious Test Match happening here, well bowled Bumrah for the 5 (five-wicket haul)," Steyn said.

Source: PTI  -  Edited By: Harish Kotian
© Copyright 2024 PTI. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of PTI content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent.

Recommended by Rediff.com

NEXT ARTICLE

NewsBusinessMoviesSportsCricketGet AheadDiscussionLabsMyPageVideosCompany Email