Cricket Slang Table of Contents
What does ‘Arm Ball’ mean?
“Arm Ball” is a colloquial term used in cricket to refer to a particular type of delivery bowled by a slow bowler. Usually, spin bowlers use the arm ball, which goes straight on landing instead of spinning, effectively deceiving the batter into playing for the spin. In essence, the arm ball is a variation of bowling action delivered by spin bowlers to surprise the batter.
It’s named ‘Arm Ball’ because in this type of delivery, the ball is released with the arm staying on a straight line throughout the action, and the ball’s seam is kept upright to follow the arm path. Initially, it seems like a spin ball to the batter, but it goes straight after pitching.
What does ‘Beamer’ mean?
In cricket, a Beamer is a type of delivery by the bowler where the ball does not bounce after being delivered and instead reaches the batter at around head height. It’s considered a dangerous and illegal delivery, as it poses a potential injury risk to the batter. The name “beamer” is potentially derived from being “beam level” or “head high”. Fast bowlers occasionally unintentionally bowl a beamer due to losing their grip on the ball or an error in their delivery stride.
A bowler is typically given a warning for the first offence and penalised for subsequent incidents in the same match. Suppose a bowler bowls a high full toss unintentionally or otherwise. In that case, the umpire will call it a ‘no-ball’ immediately, and it will not count as one of the over’s six legitimate deliveries.
What does ‘Biff’ mean?
In cricket, the slang term ‘Biff’ is commonly used to refer to a powerful and aggressive batting style. It is often associated with batters known for their ability to hit the ball hard and aim for boundaries rather than maintaining a defensive stance. They ‘give it a bit of biff’.
Many iconic cricketers have been renowned for their hard-hitting abilities in limited-overs cricket. This includes players like Shane Watson from Australia, Virender Sehwag from India, and Chris Gayle from West Indies, known for sending the ball into the stands with some ‘biff’.
What does ‘Blocker’ mean?
A “Blocker” in cricket is used predominantly to denote a batter whose primary strategy is to “block” deliveries, primarily focusing on defence rather than scoring runs. The blocker tends to be cautious, aiming to spend lots of time at the crease and reduce the chances of losing their wicket.
This style is usually adopted for strategic reasons, such as playing out difficult periods in a match when conditions favour the bowlers, attempting to rescue the innings by exhausting the bowlers or playing for time in situations where a draw might be a favourable outcome. The term could sometimes be used disparagingly to refer to players who lack attacking intent or dynamic batting abilities.
What does ‘Bouncer’ mean?
A ‘Bouncer’ is a type of delivery by a fast bowler in cricket. It is one of the most aggressive and strategic weapons in a pace bowler’s arsenal. The bouncer is designed to rise to the batter’s chest or head height as it reaches them, creating a sense of doubt, threat and uncertainty. This can cause the batter to fend or mishit the ball, potentially leading to them getting out.
However, due to the potential danger it poses to the batter, the laws and regulations limit how many bounces are allowed per over. Notable exponents of the bouncer include former Australian fast bowler Jeff Thomson and West Indian bowlers Malcolm Marshall and Michael Holding, among others.
What does ‘Bunny’ mean?
In cricket, the slang term ‘Bunny’ refers to a batter who consistently gets out by the same bowler. This implies that the bowler has a psychological or technical advantage over the batter. This term also refers to a lower-order batter with poor batting skills and often gets out cheaply.
Famous instances include Glenn McGrath’s dominance over former England player Mike Atherton.
What does ‘Castled’ mean?
“Castled” in cricket is a term used to refer to a scenario when a batter is bowled out by the bowler, resulting in the bails being removed from the stumps. The phrase originates from the imagery of a castle being destroyed; in this context, the stumps and bails symbolize a castle, while the ball acts as a cannonball.
What does ‘Cherry’ mean?
In cricket, the slang term “Cherry” refers to the ball itself. This usage has originated from the conventional red colour of the cricket ball. It is also used to describe a new cricket ball or a ball that has been barely hit or used in the game, as a new ball will have a bright cherry-like colour. Certain cricketing nations like England and Australia use this term predominantly.
In another context, “Cherry” can also refer to the red mark left on the bat due to the ball’s contact. It denotes that the batter has middled the ball well and hit it using the bat’s ‘sweet spot’. Cricketers often take pride in these cherries as they suggest that they’ve been hitting the ball well.
What does ‘Chest On’ mean?
In cricket, ‘Chest On’ refers to a specific bowling action. In this action, the bowler’s chest faces the batter during the delivery stride, offering a full view of the bowler’s front side. This technique differs from the side-on technique, where a batter only sees the bowler’s side during their action.
Chest on bowling is typically seen in fast bowlers who run straight towards the wicket, with their bodies facing forward. This bowling style can benefit bowlers by minimizing the twisting forces on their backs, potentially reducing the risk of injury. However, this action might also limit the away swing movement for the bowlers. Some well-known cricketers who use this action include Glenn McGrath, Richard Hadlee, and Courtney Walsh.
What does ‘Corridor of Uncertainty’ mean?
The ‘Corridor of Uncertainty’ is often used in cricket commentary to describe a specific area where a ball is bowled. Typically, it lies just outside off stump where the decision of the batter to play the ball or leave it becomes tricky, thus the ‘uncertainty’.
If the batter chooses to play the ball, edging it to the slips is possible. On the other hand, leaving the ball could result in getting bowled or LBW (leg before wicket) if it swings or seams back in. Therefore, bowlers aim to pitch the ball in this area to create indecision in the batter’s mind, leading to wickets.
Renowned bowlers like Glenn McGrath, James Anderson and Wasim Akram have been praised for their ability to consistently bowl in this ‘corridor’. Often, these bowlers employ the strategy early in the innings with a new ball, combining pace, swing and seam movement to exploit the batter’s initial vulnerability. This tactic is especially effective in Test cricket, where patience and attrition are pivotal.
What does ‘Cow Corner’ mean?
The term “Cow Corner” in cricket is a slang phrase that describes a specific part of the cricket field. It is often associated with poor technique or unorthodox cricket shots, especially in amateur cricket matches. The area is not predefined but loosely refers to an area on the cricket field between deep mid-wicket and long on.
The term originates from the idea that this area was so rarely targeted that cows could safely graze there. While it is a colloquial term and not a standard fielding position, it has been widely used in cricket commentary and discussions, especially when referencing slog shots that are hit in that general direction.
What does ‘Daisy Cutter’ mean?
A “Daisy Cutter” in cricket is a type of low-skimming, often high-speed delivery from the bowler to the batter. Interestingly, the term originates from how this type of delivery appears to cut daisies on the pitch as it maintains a very low height, akin to a lawnmower.
This type of delivery can be particularly effective on a pitch with an uneven bounce or one where the ball has deteriorated and isn’t bouncing as high.
What does ‘Dead Ball’ mean?
In cricket, the term “Dead Ball” refers to a situation where the ball is not considered in play, meaning that runs cannot be scored and wickets cannot fall.
This could come into effect for a variety of reasons. Some examples include the ball being tampered with, touched by a fielder without the batter’s consent, lost or wedged in the equipment, or if the bowler has bowled without having part of his or her foot behind the bowling crease.
Additionally, a dead ball can be declared if an unexpected event disrupts the field of play. This could be anything from an animal invading the pitch to objects thrown onto the field from the crowd. If the ball hits a helmet on the field, it is also considered dead.
Once the umpire signals a dead ball, the ball will not be deemed in play again until the bowler starts his or her run-up for the next delivery. The laws of cricket dictate these scenarios to ensure fairness and safety during the game. The dead ball law is covered in Law 20 of the Laws of Cricket under the custodianship of the Marylebone Cricket Club.
What does ‘Death Bowling’ mean?
“Death Bowling” is a cricket terminology that references the tactic used by bowlers during the final overs of a Limited-Overs match, particularly in T20 and One-Day Internationals (ODI). During this phase, batsmen tend to increase their scoring rate, and as a counter-response, bowlers aim to deliver balls with pinpoint accuracy.
Death bowling aims to limit the scoring opportunities for the batsmen. To achieve this, bowlers commonly utilize yorkers – a type of delivery that lands directly at the batsmen’s feet, making it challenging to score runs. Other strategies encompass a variety of slower balls, cutters, and wide deliveries. Successful death bowlers can curtail run rates and break crucial partnerships during the game’s decisive moments, often turning the match in their team’s favour. Therefore, this skill is highly coveted in cricket, and bowlers who excel in it referred to as “Death Bowlers,” are highly valued.
What does ‘Declaration’ mean?
In cricket, a “Declaration” is a decision made by the batting team’s captain to close their innings before all of their players are out. This strategic move is typically used in match formats (like Test matches or first-class cricket) played over multiple days, where calculating time remaining to play becomes essential.
The batting team’s captain may declare the innings in hopes of having enough time to bowl out the opposition and win the match. The declaration is a unique feature of cricket, making it one of the few sports where a team can voluntarily end its turn at bat.
What does ‘Dibbly Dobbly’ mean?
The term “Dibbly Dobbly” in cricket refers to a bowler who does not have a lot of pace and bowls at a slow or medium speed, usually with no pronounced style or technique such as spin or swing. They lack the menacing speed of fast bowlers and do not possess the guile of spinners. Their deliveries, or balls, simply ‘dib’ and ‘dob’ along, hence the Dibbly Dobbly. Such bowlers often rely on their accuracy, variation in pace, and the element of surprise to take wickets.
A good example would be New Zealand Cricket Legend Sir Richard Hadlee, who referred to his teammates, Gavin Larsen and Chris Harris, known for this style of bowling, as ‘Dibbly Dobbly bowlers’. says Mike Selvey from The Guardian.
What does ‘Dolly’ mean?
In cricket, the term “Dolly” refers to an extremely easy catch expected to be taken by a player without difficulty. It is usually used when a batter mistimes a shot, and the ball goes high, coming down slowly to a fielder. Dolly catches are often so simple that dropping one may embarrass the fielder.
The term is believed to have originated in England and is frequently used in cricket commentary and discussions. The term parallels the slang term “sitter”, also used to describe an easy catch. Famous cricket players and commentators, and many others often use this term during live match commentary.
What does ‘Doosra’ mean?
In cricket, the term “Doosra” is a particular type of delivery by an off-spin bowler. The word doosra means ‘second’ or ‘other’ in Hindi and Urdu, and in the cricketing context, it refers to the bowler’s second special delivery type.
Developed by former Pakistani cricketer Saqlain Mushtaq, a Doosra spins in the opposite direction to an off-break (the bowler’s default delivery), deceiving the batter. The bowling action needed for a Doosra is quite similar to an off-break, making it difficult for the batter to predict the direction of the spin.
This delivery has been popularized by many prominent cricketers, such as Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka and Harbhajan Singh of India. Despite its effectiveness, the legality of the Doosra has been subject to debate due to the level of elbow flexion required to deliver it.
What does ‘Edge’ mean?
The term “Edge” in cricket refers to the sides of the bat, and it’s also used when a batter unintentionally makes contact with the ball using the edge of the bat. This often happens when a player tries to attack or defend but doesn’t execute the shot correctly, resulting in the ball grazing or hitting the edge rather than the middle of the bat.
Such shots are risky because they can easily lead to dismissals, such as a catch by a fielder, wicketkeeper, or the slips. Edges are popularly classified into two types: an “outside edge”, which leads the ball towards the slip area, and an “inside edge”, which can lead the ball towards the wicket or the fine leg area. Edging the ball is generally seen as a sign of bad technique, but sometimes, even the most accomplished batter might edge the ball due to a deceptive delivery from the bowler.
What does ‘Flat Track Bully’ mean?
A “Flat Track Bully” is a slang term in cricket used to describe a player who performs exceptionally well and dominates only under favourable conditions, such as flat, batter-friendly pitches. These players are reputed for posting high scores or taking many wickets when the conditions are favourable. Still, their performance significantly dwindles when faced with more challenging or hostile playing conditions or high-pressure situations.
The term carries a negative connotation in many ways, implying that the player lacks the versatility or adaptability necessary to excel under varying circumstances. Well-known players have been labelled as such, implicitly challenging them to prove their skills on more demanding wickets and against tougher opponents.
What does ‘Flipper’ mean?
The term “Flipper” in cricket refers to a type of delivery used by a leg spin bowler. The flipper is a much faster delivery with a lower trajectory when compared to other types of spin. With the thumb and first and second fingers, the ball is squeezed out of the front of the hand, causing it to skid off the pitch faster than a standard leg-spin delivery.
It deceives the batter into thinking that the ball will bounce higher and, therefore, plays it on the back foot, often resulting in the ball hitting the stumps or trapping the player LBW. This delivery was mastered by the Australian bowler Shane Warne and is used by many other well-known spin bowlers to catch the batter off guard.
What does ‘Full Toss’ mean?
In cricket, a full toss is a type of delivery where the bowled ball reaches the batter without bouncing on the pitch. This can be a disastrous scenario for a bowler if the ball is hit, as it is easier for the batter to score runs because he can freely hit the ball in any direction. On the other hand, sometimes a well-directed full toss can serve as an effective surprise tactic. It is generally considered a poor delivery, but a bowler may utilise it strategically in some specific scenarios, especially in the sport’s shorter forms like Twenty20 cricket.
Its effectiveness highly depends on the delivery speed and the ball’s height when it reaches the batter. If the ball reaches the batter above waist height, it is considered a ‘no-ball’ in One Day Internationals and Twenty20 matches, per the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) rules. In the traditional Test cricket format, the height restriction is above shoulder height. The full toss is perceived to be risky due to its potential to be heavily scored off if not delivered properly.
Notably, certain bowlers utilise it for their benefit. ‘Yorkers’, a popular type of full toss aimed at the batter’s feet, can be challenging to play and often result in wickets. Many bowlers, such as Lasith Malinga of Sri Lanka and Jasprit Bumrah of India, have used this delivery effectively.
What does ‘Gardening’ mean?
Gardening in Cricket refers to the act performed by the batter when he tries to reshape the pitch’s uneven areas using his bat. This occurs between deliveries when the batter taps down any loose bits of turf or rough areas on the pitch. This helps ensure that the ball’s bounce is even while playing, which can considerably impact the game’s flow. It also allows them to get a little breather and compose themselves.
It is a prevalent practice and signifies one of the various ways the batter psychologically prepares himself. The overall objective of gardening is to make the pitch, especially the batter’s crease area, as friendly as possible to play on. However, the laws of cricket strictly specify that a batter cannot damage the pitch intentionally, and it is at the umpire’s discretion to decide if the batter’s actions are fair.
What does ‘Googly’ mean?
The term ‘Googly’ in cricket refers to a type of delivery bowled by a right-arm leg spin bowler. It is also known as the ‘wrong’un’ in Australia, the ‘Bosie’ in honour of its inventor, Bernard Bosanquet, or the ‘doosra’ for off-spin bowlers.
The googly is delivered out of the back of the hand, causing it to spin in the opposite direction to the standard leg break, thus deceiving the batter. This makes it difficult for the batter to judge the line and direction of the ball, leading to possible dismissal. It is considered one of the deceptive arts of bowling, adding an extra tactical element to the game of cricket.
What does ‘Green Top’ mean?
A “Green Top” in cricket is a colloquial term referring to a pitch type. It describes a cricket ground covered with considerable grass, much greener than the usual dry, hard pitch. This gives it its “green” appearance, hence the name.
The grass on such a pitch typically assists pace bowlers, making the ball deviate off the seam and making batting more difficult. In essence, a Green Top pitch can drastically change the dynamics of a cricket match, favouring bowlers, particularly seam and swing bowlers, and challenging batsmen’s skill, resilience, and technique.
What does ‘Grubber’ mean?
A ‘Grubber’ in cricket refers to a ball that barely bounces off the pitch after the bowler has bowled it. It stays extremely low, often just skimming the surface of the ground. This unpredictability in bounce makes it difficult for the batter to play a shot against.
The term is derived from ‘grub’, which refers to an insect larvae that typically move just under the ground’s surface. In a broader sense, a grubber might also refer to any ball that behaves unexpectedly after pitching, making it tricky for the batter.
What does ‘Half Tracker’ mean?
A “Half Tracker” in cricket is a slang term typically used to refer to a type of poor delivery by a bowler. It describes a ball bowled too short, causing it to bounce around the mid-wicket distance, also known as halfway down the pitch. This position makes it easier for the batter to exploit due to the extra time it provides on its trajectory. The batter can anticipate its trajectory and decide whether to play on the back foot or front foot.
Consequently, the bowler receives criticism for such a delivery as it holds the potential of being hit by the batter, possibly resulting in a high-scoring shot such as a four or a six; it’s usually an unintended error from the bowler’s end. The term “Half Tracker” originates from the idea of the ball travelling ‘half the track’ of the pitch before it bounces.
What does ‘Hat-trick’ mean?
In cricket, a ‘Hat-trick’ is used when a bowler takes three wickets with consecutive deliveries. It doesn’t matter if the wickets are claimed over two different overs, matches, or even two different series.
The’ Hat-trick’ count continues as long as the bowler takes at least one wicket with his next delivery. The term originates from a tradition where a bowler who achieved this feat was traditionally awarded a hat or cap as recognition.
What does ‘Heavy Ball’ mean?
A ‘Heavy Ball’ in cricket is one that’s bowled at a comparatively slower pace, but upon pitching, it reaches the batter much quicker and bounces higher than expected. The term describes the delivery that psychologically disturbs the batter because of its unexpected nature. To execute the heavy ball, the bowler needs to put more force on it while bowling it without modifying the speed.
A well-delivered heavy ball can surprise a batter, making it a potent weapon in a bowler’s arsenal. Famous bowlers like England’s James Anderson and Australia’s Pat Cummins are known to use heavy balls effectively. The term doesn’t have a technical or official meaning and is more of a colloquial terminology used mainly by players and cricket experts.
What does ‘Hoik’ mean?
In cricket, ‘Hoik’ typically refers to a stroke played with a cross-batted swing, often used against slow bowlers. This stroke intends to hit the ball high into the air over midwicket or square leg, often disregarding any technical style. This shot is typically played when the batter wants to score quickly, especially in limited-overs cricket.
The term can also be sometimes perceived as derogatory due to its association with a lack of finesse or patience, which are considered vital elements in the traditional form of cricket. Despite its negative connotation, when played correctly, a hoik can result in a high-scoring shot, such as four or six runs.
What does ‘Howzat’ mean?
‘Howzat’ is a colloquial, shorthand term used in cricket, originating from the phrase “how’s that?” Players typically shout ‘Howzat’ to appeal to the umpire for a decision when they believe the batter is out. It is often used in situations such as when the bowling side thinks they have bowled the batter out, caught the batter out or had the batter leg before wicket (LBW).
This term has become a part of cricket’s vernacular that it is frequently used even in official matches, transcending all linguistic barriers. Aside from its use on the pitch, ‘Howzat’ is often used in cricket commentary and reporting and is even the title of a popular song by the band Sherbet that’s themed around cricket. A cricket-themed board game is also named ‘Howzat’, further demonstrating its cultural significance in the cricket world.
What does ‘Jaffa’ mean?
The term Jaffa is a popular slang term in cricket. It describes a delivery so well bowled by the bowler that it leaves the batter with no chance of playing it. Essentially, it’s considered a perfect delivery by the bowler. The Jaffa term has emerged as an alternative slang term to ‘peach of a delivery’, another way to describe a perfect bowling delivery.
One of the classic examples of a Jaffa is a ball bowled by Shane Warne, an Australian bowler, to Mike Gatting of England in the 1993 Ashes series, where after pitching outside leg stump, the ball turned sharply and hit the off stump, leaving the batter bamboozled.
What does ‘Maiden Over’ mean?
In Cricket, a “Maiden Over” refers to an over in which no runs have been scored by the batter. It showcases an exemplary display of bowling skill where the bowler successfully prevents the batter from scoring any runs.
There are no runs from the bat or extras like wides, and no balls are scored in a maiden over. Maiden overs are an integral part of the game’s strategy, helping in controlling the flow of runs and increasing pressure on the batter. The term ‘maiden’ signifies ‘unscathed’ or untouched’, implying that the over remained ‘unscathed’ by any runs scored by the batter
What does ‘Mankad’ mean?
The term ‘Mankad’ refers to a method of running out where a bowler dismisses a non-striking batter before bowling when the latter is outside the crease. Although legal under cricket laws, it often sparks controversy due to perceived unsportsmanlike conduct.
The term originated after Indian cricketer Vinoo Mankad ran out Australian batter Bill Brown similarly during India’s tour of Australia in 1947-48. The instance was highly criticized by the Australians, yet defended by others, including the legendary Sir Don Bradman. In the English county cricket, when ‘Mankadding’ happened a few times in the 2019 season, it caused debate about the spirit of the game versus its laws. The 2019 IPL season also saw an infamous ‘Mankad’ by Kings XI Punjab captain Ravichandran Ashwin on Rajasthan Royals‘ Jos Buttler, dividing the cricket fraternity globally over the ethical aspect of the dismissal.
What does ‘Nelson’ mean?
The term “Nelson” in cricket denotes a team or individual player’s total score of 111 or multiples thereof (such as 222, 333, etc). Named after Admiral Lord Nelson, it is fabled that he had “one eye, one arm, one leg”, hence the 111. However, this is not historically accurate, as Admiral Nelson had both of his legs. Nonetheless, the term has stuck around in the cricketing world. Some players consider it an unlucky omen and often involve superstitious rituals to counteract it, such as lifting their feet off the ground.
One of the most well-known associations of the “Nelson” superstition is former England cricketer David Shepherd, who used to hop and skip when the score reached a “Nelson”.
What does ‘Nightwatchman’ mean?
The term ‘Nightwatchman’ in cricket refers to a lower-order batter who comes out to bat higher up the order than usual, typically towards the end of a day’s play. This strategic move aims to protect more skilled batsmen from the risk of getting out during what is widely considered a tricky period to bat due to reasons such as challenging light conditions, a tiring day or a fresh, eager bowler.
A Nightwatchman is often expected to ‘survive’ and shield the top-order batsmen until play resumes the next day. This strategy has been used by teams worldwide for many years, and its effectiveness is often a topic of debate among cricket pundits and fans.
What does ‘Nurdle’ mean?
The term ‘Nurdle’ in cricket refers to a method of scoring where a batter gently nudges the ball into a vacant area of the field, typically into gaps close to the pitch. This allows the batter to score ones and twos without taking significant risks. This strategy is particularly effective in Test matches where building a solid score is more important than scoring quickly.
Nurdling requires excellent ball control and a deep understanding of field placements. Some of the all-time great ‘nurdlers’ include Geoffrey Boycott and Rahul Dravid, who have successfully utilized this technique to accumulate runs and frustrate the bowling team.
What does ‘On a Length’ mean?
“On a Length” in cricket refers to a particular type of delivery a bowler utilizes. Specifically, it refers to a ball that lands in a spot on the pitch that is thought challenging for the batter to score runs.
The ideal length is typically a bit further from the batter – far enough to make it difficult for the batter to step forward and drive the ball along the ground, but not so far that they can easily play a back-foot shot. The length varies depending on pitch conditions, the individual batter’s abilities, and the tactics being employed by the bowler and fielding team. This strategic part of cricket gameplay tests the batter’s skill, patience, and decision-making.
What does ‘Outswing’ mean?
In cricket, the term ‘Outswing’ refers to a type of delivery bowled by a fast bowler. The unique aspect of an Outswing delivery is that it moves away from the batter in the air, confounding the batter’s defensive skills. This is achieved by positioning the cricket ball in the bowler’s hand so that the shiny side faces the leg side (for a right-handed batter). Outswing bowling plays a vital role in getting the batter out caught behind or trapped leg before wicket, as the away movement off the pitch lures the batter into playing a shot, opening the possibility of edging the ball to the wicketkeeper or slips.
Outswing is primarily used in situations where the bowlers want the batsmen to drive the ball, thereby increasing the chances of an edge. Legendary fast bowlers like England’s James Anderson and Australia’s Glenn McGrath have often used outswing deliveries effectively in their bowling arsenal.
What does ‘Pinch Hitter’ mean?
In cricket, a ‘Pinch Hitter’ is a term that refers to a batter who bats out of their usual position in the batting order, usually moving up, with the specific aim of increasing the scoring rate by playing aggressively.
The Pinch Hitter’s role is often risky and requires a great deal of skill and boldness, as the main objective is to score runs quickly, even if it means taking more risks. Notable examples of Pinch Hitters include Sanath Jayasuriya for Sri Lanka, Shahid Afridi for Pakistan, and Virender Sehwag for India.
What does ‘Popping Crease’ mean?
The popping crease, in cricket, is a designated boundary line before the wicket that a batter must not cross until the ball is delivered. This line determines the legal area of play and is crucial in making decisions such as run-outs and stumpings. The crease is drawn four feet before the stumps at either end of the pitch.
It is also the basis for determining a no-ball. If the bowler oversteps this line during the delivery stride, the umpire deems it a no-ball, which brings multiple advantages to the batting team, such as an additional run and the opportunity for the batter to not be out from that delivery, barring certain exceptions.
What does ‘Quicks’ mean?
In cricket, the term ‘Quicks’ is often used as a slang term to refer to fast bowlers. These players are known for their ability to deliver the ball at high speeds, generally over 90 mph or 145 kph. They are an integral part of the team’s attack, aiming to defeat the batter with pace and movement. Famous quicks throughout the history of cricket include Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Shoaib Akhtar, and Dale Steyn.
What does ‘Red Ink’ mean?
The term ‘Red Ink’ in cricket is slang for a not-out score by a batter. It originates from scorebooks, wherein the scores of the batsmen not out at the end of an innings were marked in red ink. When a batter is said to have ‘carried his bat’, they have batted the whole innings and thus have ‘Red Ink’ beside their name in the scorecard. The term is also used in discussions about cricket, often as a mark of a batter’s ability to stay unbeaten and effectively anchor an innings, particularly in test matches or first-class cricket.
What does ‘Rooted to the Crease’ mean?
‘Rooted to the Crease’ is a commonly used cricketing slang that refers to a batter who is so determined and concentrated on his batting that he seems almost immobile or ‘rooted’ at the batting crease. This term is often used to describe a batter who exhibits a strong defence, bats for long periods, shows patience, and refrains from playing unnecessary shots.
What does ‘Rough’ mean?
The term “Rough” in cricket refers to the patches of rough or worn-out area on the pitch, usually caused by the action of bowlers’ footmarks. These patches are predominantly located where the bowler’s lead foot lands at the delivery stride. The rough regions create inconsistencies in the pitch, which can result in varying degrees of spin, pace, and bounce.
Spin bowlers, in particular, attempt to aim for the rough since the worn-out area helps considerably in spinning the ball, thus making it more uncertain for the batsmen to predict the ball’s trajectory. Conversely, batters need to skillfully handle the balls landing on the rough as they can behave unpredictably.
The extent of ‘rough’ can evolve over multiple days in Test cricket, typically making it harder for batsmen to play as a match goes on.
What does ‘Seam’ mean?
The term ‘Seam’ in cricket refers to the stitching or the ridge on a cricket ball that joins the two halves. This stitching or elevated portion creates uneven air pressure when bowled, influencing the ball’s trajectory. A bowler who can expertly use the seam and exploit these properties is often called a ‘seam bowler’. Seam bowling is a blend of swing (manoeuvring the ball in the air) and spin (making the ball move off the ground) bowling. A good seam position (often perpendicular to the pitch) can result in the ball deviating or ‘seaming’ off the pitch, causing problems for the batter.
What does ‘Seeing it Like a Football’ mean?
The slang term ‘Seeing it Like a Football’ in cricket describes a batter who is playing exceptionally well and hitting the cricket ball consistently. It gives the impression that the considerably smaller cricket ball looks as large as a football to the batter. This usually happens when the batter is well-settled on the crease and has spent time batting.
What does ‘Short Pitched’ mean?
The term ‘Short Pitched’ in cricket refers to a type of delivery where the bowler throws the ball to a point on the pitch closer to him or herself rather than near the batter. This delivery technique is designed to bounce high, often reaching above the waist of the batter, and can be hard to play due to the awkward height and potentially quick speed.
Some well-known references related to a short-pitched ball include ‘Bouncer’ and ‘Yorker’. A ‘Bouncer’ is a short-pitched delivery aimed at bouncing up towards the batter’s head or chest. A ‘Yorker’, although not a short-pitched delivery, is worth mentioning as it is the opposite of a short-pitched delivery, pitched closer to the batter’s feet. By varying the lengths of their deliveries between short-pitched balls and Yorkers, bowlers aim to surprise and dismiss the batter.
What does ‘Silly’ mean?
The cricket term “Silly” refers to a group of fielding positions used in the sport. These positions include silly point, silly mid-off, silly mid-on, and silly mid-wicket. The term is derived from the phrase “silly mid-on” which humorously suggests that the position is a crazy one (standing close to the batter and facing a powerful stroke is seen as risky).
These positions are taken by fielders who are extremely close to the batter, within a few yards, and primarily used when the spinners are bowling. The idea is to create pressure on the batter with the close proximity of these fielders. These fielding positions are highly dangerous, as there is a high risk of getting hit by the ball struck by the batter, and therefore require a great amount of courage and skill. The ‘silly’ fielders usually wear protective gear for safety.
What does ‘Sitter’ mean?
In cricket, the term ‘Sitter’ refers to an incredibly easy catch that is usually expected to be taken by a fielder without any difficulties. It typically describes a situation where the ball has been hit high into the air and comes down slowly, giving the fielder plenty of time to get underneath it and complete the catch.
This term is derived from the notion that the catch is so simple and straightforward that the fielder could ‘sit down’ and still take it. Sitter catches require minimum effort and minimal movement. Hence, the fielder is expected not to ‘drop’ or ‘spill’ it. Whenever a fielder drops a sitter, it’s often seen as a significant blunder and can sometimes change the course of the game.
What does ‘Sledging’ mean?
Sledging is a term used mainly in cricket, in which players seek to gain an advantage by insulting or verbally intimidating the opposing player. The purpose is to try to weaken the opponent’s concentration, thereby causing them to make mistakes or underperform. It can be subtle or direct. The term is believed to have been coined by the Australian cricketer Rodney Marsh during the 1970s.
There have been numerous well-documented instances of sledging in international cricket. Notorious sledgers include Australian cricketers like Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, and English cricketer James Anderson.
However, sledging is controversial and is often criticised as unsportsmanlike. Cricket, known as the “gentleman’s game,” has a long tradition of respect between players, and some believe that sledging contradicts these values. While sledging is not officially illegal, it can be penalized under the International Cricket Council’s Code of Conduct if it crosses into the realm of offensive language or behaviour.
What does ‘Slip’ mean?
The term Slip in cricket refers to a fielding position located on the offside, behind the batter and next to the wicketkeeper. The placement of the fielder could be singular or multiple, depending on the game strategy. The slip fielders are meant to catch the balls that the batter edges but doesn’t control, typically off the fast or swing bowlers.
Watching the slip cordon – which includes First Slip, Second Slip, Third Slip, Fourth Slip, and so on – in action is a classic sight in cricket, especially during Test matches.
What does ‘Square Leg’ mean?
The term “Square Leg” in cricket refers to a specific position on the field where a fielder stands. It falls on the leg side of the batter, approximately square to its wicket, hence the name “Square Leg”. It is one of the standard fielding positions in cricket and is often used for both slow and fast bowlers.
Positioned so that they can see the batter’s wicket, the square leg umpire also stands at this point. The umpire has a sideways view of the bowler’s delivery, making them an authority on decisions like runouts or stumpings, which require a clear viewpoint.
What does ‘Sticky Wicket’ mean?
The term ‘Sticky Wicket’ in cricket refers to a deteriorating or difficult pitch, often due to damp and unpredictable conditions. The phrase originally hails from the early English game where pitches were often uncovered, causing the wet pitch to dry out unevenly under the sun. This would create an unpredictable rough or ‘sticky’ surface for batsmen, as the ball tends to bounce and spin irregularly.
The difficulty encountered on a sticky wicket is often seen as a major test of a batter’s skill. It also refers metaphorically to a tricky or awkward situation, like batting on a tough surface in cricket. This broader use of the term is common in sports and other sectors such as politics, business, and everyday conversations.
What does ‘Stock Ball’ mean?
The term “Stock Ball” in cricket refers to a bowler’s standard delivery, or the type of ball that they bowl most frequently. This is the default delivery style the cricketer relies on, essentially their ‘go-to’ ball when no variation is being attempted. It could be a fast ball for a fast bowler, an off-spin for an off-spinner, a leg-break for a leg-spinner, and so on.
The purpose of the stock ball is not necessarily to take wickets but to build pressure on the opposing batter by maintaining control over the game’s pace, consistency, and accuracy in the bowling line and length. This delivery often shapes the bowler’s overall bowling strategy in the match. However, good bowlers are also adept at switching their deliveries, integrating variations along with their stock ball, to keep batsmen guessing and to increase their chances of taking wickets.
What does ‘Straight Bat’ mean?
The term ‘Straight Bat’ in cricket refers to a batting technique where the batter aligns the bat in the bowler’s direction while playing a shot, ensuring the face of the bat points towards the bowler as well. This technique aims to protect the stumps behind the batter and to play the ball along the ground, minimizing the risk of being caught out.
What does ‘Tailender’ mean?
A “Tailender” is a term used in cricket to refer to those batsmen who bat towards the end of the batting order, generally at positions 8 to 11. These players are typically the team’s specialist bowlers, and are often not as skilled in batting as they are in bowling. They are positioned at the end of the batting lineup, or the “tail” of the order. These tail-enders are responsible for supporting the established batsmen and trying to stay on the crease for as long as possible. They are expected to chip in with valuable extra runs, often affecting the game’s outcome.
However, there have been many instances in cricket history where tailenders have played remarkable innings, defying their usual expectations. They are often involved in critical last-wicket stands and are hailed as heroes when they manage to guide their team to victory or a draw from dire situations.
What does ‘Ton’ mean?
The term ‘Ton’ in cricket refers to a player scoring one hundred runs. Often used in the same context as a century, it is seen as a significant achievement for any batter. The term most likely originates from the concept of a ‘ton’ or ‘hundred’ in English and British slang, permeating the cricketing language as the sport originated in England.
What does ‘Wrong un’ mean?
The term “Wrong’un” in cricket refers to a specific type of delivery in which the ball unexpectedly spins in the opposite direction from what the batter predicts. It’s also known as a ‘googly.’ Leg-spin bowlers typically use this delivery, with the ball spinning from off to leg for a right-handed batter.
Despite using a bowling action similar to a standard leg spinner, a ‘wrong ‘un tends to confuse the batter because of its contrasting spin direction. This results from the back of the hand facing the batter at the point of release, causing the reversed spin.
What does ‘Zooter’ mean?
A “Zooter” is a type of delivery bowled by a spin bowler. It’s considered a variation of the ‘flipper’, traditionally bowled by leg spin players. Unlike a flipper, which bounces higher, a Zooter is known for its low bounce, thus making it tricky for the batter. This term gained popularity when it was frequently used by Shane Warne, the Australian spin bowler who was well-known for his remarkable spin-bowling variations.
The Zooter is generally delivered quickly and flat, skidding through to the batter, intended to trap them on the back foot or lead them to misjudge the length of the ball.
That’s all, folks! Have we missed any?
Feel free to highlight any omissions in the comments below; we’ll keep the post updated!