The Hundred 2023: Rules of The Format

Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for an exhilarating cricketing spectacle as The Hundred 2023 kicks off. This revolutionary cricket format, known for its fast-paced and action-packed nature, introduces several unique rules that are sure to captivate fans and players alike. Let’s revisit The Hundred Rules, a cricketing extravaganza like no other.

1. 100 Balls, 65 Minutes

The essence of The Hundred lies in its concise innings, where each team faces 100 balls in a mere 65 minutes. This time-bound format ensures an adrenaline-fueled match with no dull moments, making it perfect for modern-day cricket fans.

2. Sets of Five Deliveries

An intriguing feature of The Hundred is that two sets of five deliveries are bowled before the change of ends during play. Bowlers have the flexibility to bowl either two sets of five from the same end or five from each end, adding strategic elements to the game.

3. Limited Bowling Spells

Bowler’s roles are carefully defined in The Hundred, with each bowler allowed a maximum of 20 deliveries per innings. These deliveries are divided into four spells of five balls each, challenging bowlers to make a significant impact within their allotted quota.

4. The Powerplay

The early stages of an innings are electrifying as the powerplay consists of the first 25 balls. During this phase, fielding restrictions apply, offering batsmen an opportunity to capitalize on the fielding restrictions and score freely.

5. Fielding Restriction Penalty

Should a team fail to complete the last five balls of an innings within 65 minutes, they will face a fielding restriction penalty. One fewer fielder will be permitted outside the fielding restriction area, adding an interesting dimension to time management in the game.

Related The Hundred Squads (Men’s)

6. Limited DRS Reviews

In The Hundred, each team is allowed a maximum of one unsuccessful Decision Review System (DRS) review per innings. Teams must use this review judiciously to challenge on-field decisions effectively.

7. Minimum Ball Requirement

To constitute a match, a minimum of 25 balls must be bowled to the side batting second, unless a result has been achieved earlier. This rule ensures that matches are decisive and not abandoned due to weather or other disruptions.

Related The Hundred Squads (Women’s)

8. Geographically Close Rivals

The fixture list in The Hundred creates exciting rivalries, with each team playing one match against six opponents and two matches against their geographically closest rivals. This structure adds a sense of rivalry and regional pride to the tournament.

9. Super 5 Tiebreaker

The knockout stages of The Hundred promise nail-biting encounters. In the event of a tie, a “Super 5” tiebreaker will be played, with the winner being the team that scores the most runs from a further five balls, delivering thrilling finishes to high-stakes matches.