Complete Guide to Cricket Extras: Wides, No-Balls, Byes, Leg-Byes & Free Hits

Why Understanding Extras Laws Prevents On-Field Disputes

In recreational and league cricket, an extra 15–20 runs conceded in wides and no-balls is often the difference between winning and losing—and adds 2–3 extra overs of bowling time. Knowing the exact laws keeps both captains and scorers aligned.

Key Rules Every Player & Scorer Should Know

• Can a batter be stumped off a Wide? Yes! While a batter cannot be bowled or caught off a wide delivery, they can be dismissed Stumped, Run Out, Hit Wicket, or Obstructing the Field.
• What dismissals are valid on a Free Hit? Following a No-Ball in limited-overs cricket, the next delivery is a Free Hit. On a Free Hit, a batter can only be dismissed under the same rules as a No-Ball (primarily Run Out).
• Can the field be changed for a Free Hit? If the same batter remains on strike for the Free Hit, the fielding captain is not permitted to change the field placement. Only if the batters crossed on the No-Ball (or if the No-Ball was for a fielding restriction breach) can the field be adjusted.
• When are Leg-Byes awarded? Leg-byes are only valid if the ball strikes the batter's body/pads while they were either attempting to play a shot with the bat or trying to avoid being hit by the ball.