NEW DELHI: In cricket, a no-ball is an illegal delivery by the bowler, giving the batsman a free hit in the limited-overs matches. Common reasons for a no-ball include the bowler overstepping the popping crease, delivering the ball above waist height in the batsman's normal stance, or an overextended bowling arm.
No-balls can also be called due to illegal bowling actions or dangerous deliveries. Umpires enforce this rule to ensure fair play and safety. The batting side is awarded one run, and the next ball is a free hit, during which the batsman can't be dismissed in most ways.
However, during the 2024 Vitality T20 Blast match between Somerset and Northamptonshire, fans witnessed a rare no-ball decision. While reviewing a stumping appeal, the third umpire discovered that the wicketkeeper's gloves were ahead of the stumps at the time of delivery, which, according to ICC rules, rendered the delivery illegal.
This no-ball gave the batsman a free hit, and he capitalized by smashing a huge six.
Somerset, led by Lewis Gregory, were put in to bat by Northamptonshire captain David Willey and posted a formidable 215/3 in their 20 overs. Tom Banton (75 off 43 balls) and Tom Kohler-Cadmore (63 off 43 balls) both scored half-centuries for Somerset.
In response, Northamptonshire managed 198/5 in 20 overs, giving Somerset a 17-run victory in Northampton. Somerset will now face Surrey in the semifinals on September 14 in Birmingham.
