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			{{inline\|date=January 2013}}
	{{Infobox sport
			]
	\| name = Indoor cricket
			'''Indoor cricket''' is a variant of and shares many basic concepts with ]. There are two separate formats of indoor cricket. The more traditional 6 aside version of the game is most prevalent in the UK with many leagues around the country<ref>http://ecbindoor6.play-cricket.com/home/home.asp</ref>. This is the format which bears most in common with its outdoor cousin, with a hard ball and a full length pitch being used. A new, 8 aside version of the game was invented in Australia and features several dramatic differences that make it all but unrecognisable from the outdoor game, including the use of nets as safety netting, a shortened pitch and a soft ball.
	\| union = ]
	\| first = 1970s
	\| first team =
	\| registered =
	\| clubs =
	\| team = 8 players per side
	\| mgender = Single
	\| category = ], ]
	\| ball = ], ],<br> ]
	\| venue = ]
	}}
	'''Indoor cricket''' is a variant of and shares many basic concepts with ]. The game is most often played between two teams each consisting of six or eight players.<ref name='rules'></ref>

			Conventional cricket has been played indoors at the ] in ], ], but there are no other enclosed stadiums with a playing surface the size of a full-sized cricket field in any major cricket playing country. The codified sport of indoor cricket is not to be confused with conventional cricket played indoors.
	Several versions of the game have been in existence since the late 1960s, whilst the game in its present form began to take shape in the late 1970s and early 1980s.<ref name="shorter">, September 7, 2007.</ref>

	Conventional cricket has been played indoors at the ] in ], ]<ref></ref>. The codified sport of indoor cricket is not to be confused with conventional cricket played indoors, or with other modified versions of cricket played indoors (see ] below).

	==The game of indoor cricket==		==The game of indoor cricket==
	In terms of the concept of the game indoor cricket is similar to ]. Like its outdoor cousin, indoor cricket involves two batsmen, a bowler and a team of fielders. The bowler ''bowls'' the ball to the batsmen who must score runs~~<ref></ref>~~. The team with the highest score at the end of the match wins. Despite these basic similarities, the game itself differs significantly from its traditional counterpart in several ways, most notably on the field of play and the means by which runs are obtained.		In terms of the concept of the game indoor cricket is similar to ]. Like its outdoor cousin, indoor cricket involves two batsmen, a bowler and a team of fielders. The bowler ''bowls'' the ball to the batsmen who must score runs. The team with the highest score at the end of the match wins. Despite these basic similarities, the game itself differs significantly from its traditional counterpart in several ways, most notably on the field of play and the means by which runs are obtained.

			==Typical rules for the 6 aside version of the game==
			<!-- Deleted image removed: ] -->

			The rules of 6-aside indoor cricket are identical to that of outdoor cricket with the following exceptions<ref>http://static.ecb.co.uk/files/2925-nfc-six-a-side-2012-p47-54-lr-11959.pdf</ref>

			:

			1. Each match will consist of one ] per teams of six players.

			2. Each innings will consist of a maximum of ten ] of six balls.

			3. No bowler may bowl more than three overs. If for any reason a bowler is unable to complete an over the
			outstanding deliveries will be bowled by another bowler who has not bowled more than three overs.

			4. All bowling will take place from the same end of the pitch.

			5. When a batsman reaches a personal total of twenty-five runs he must retire, but may return to the crease in the event
			of his side being dismissed within the ten overs. Note: He actually returns when there is still one batsman to be
			dismissed and may take strike immediately.

			6. Two batsmen will be at the wicket at all times during an innings. In the event of a team losing five wickets within the ten overs the last man will continue batting with the fifth man out remaining at the wicket as a ].

			7. A batsman may be caught out and dismissed directly off the side wall, provided the ball has not hit the floor.

			8. In view of the importance of run aggregate, matches should be played out, i.e. even though the team batting
			second has won the match, it should continue batting until it has used all its ten overs or has been dismissed.

			===System of Scoring===

			A ball that is struck to hit the ] wall behind the bowler without touching the floor or any other part of the wall or roof part scores six runs.

			A ball that is struck to hit the boundary wall behind the bowler and also touches the floor but does not touch any of the other walls or roof and hits the back boundary wall scores four runs.

			A ball struck to hit one or more of the side walls will count as one run, even if the ball subsequently hits the back boundary wall. If the ball is struck to hit a side wall and a batsmen is then run out one run will still be scored.

			A ball struck directly to hit the roof becomes dead immediately. No runs will be scored and there will be no dismissal. The ball will not be rebowled. A ball that hits the roof having previously hit the side wall is still in play.

			Two runs will be scored if the batsmen complete a run at any time. These runs may be scored on top of a run for hitting a side wall, including a ] or ], but not on top of a boundary.

			A bye will count as one run if the ball bowled hits a wall. A leg bye will count as one run if the ball hits a side wall.

			If the bowler oversteps the crease, bowls a ] over waist height, or the ball does not pitch on the playing mat a ] will be called and the batting side will be awarded one run. An extra ball will be bowled. Any runs on top of this will still count as usual.

			Wide balls will be called as with orthodox ].

			==Rules for Australian 8 aside Net Cricket: ==
	==International rules overview==

	~~====~~Playing arena~~====~~		1. Playing arena
	{{Main\|Indoor cricket court}}		{{Main\|Indoor cricket court}}
	The length of an indoor cricket ] is the same as a conventional cricket pitch, and has 3 ]s at each end, but there the similarities end. The arena is completely enclosed by tight netting, a few metres from each side and end of the pitch. The playing surface is normally artificial grass matting. Whilst the pitch is the same length, however, the ] don't have to run the entire length. The striker's ] is in the regulation place in front of the stumps, but the non-striker's crease is only halfway down the pitch.<ref name='rules' />

			The length of an indoor cricket ] is the same as a conventional cricket pitch, and has 3 ]s at each end, but there the similarities end. The arena is completely enclosed by tight netting, a few metres from each side and end of the pitch. The playing surface is normally artificial grass matting. Whilst the pitch is the same length, however, the ] don't have to run the entire length. The striker's ] is in the regulation place in front of the stumps, but the non-striker's crease is only halfway down the pitch.
	====Players====
	Indoor cricket is played between 2 teams of 8 players. Each player must ] 2 ]s, and bat in a partnership for 4 overs. A faster version of the game exists, where each side is reduced to 6 players and each innings lasts 12 overs instead of 16.<ref name='rules' />

			2. Players
	====Equipment====

	The stumps used in indoor cricket are not, for obvious reasons, stuck in the ground. Instead, they are collapsible spring-loaded stumps that immediately spring back to the standing position when knocked over. The ball used in indoor cricket is a modified ], with a softer centre. The ball also differs in that it is yellow in colour so to make it more obvious to see indoors against varied backgrounds. Both traditional outdoor cricket bats or more specialised lighter-weight indoor cricket bats may be used. The gloves are typically lightweight cotton with no protective padding on the outside. The palm-side of the gloves usually have embedded rubber dots to aid grip.<ref name='rules' />
			Indoor cricket is played between 2 teams of 8 players. Each player must ] 2 ]s, and bat in a partnership for 4 overs. A faster version of the game exists, where each side is reduced to 6 players and each innings lasts 12 overs instead of 16.

			3. Equipment

			The stumps used in indoor cricket are not, for obvious reasons, stuck in the ground. Instead, they are collapsible spring-loaded stumps that immediately spring back to the standing position when knocked over. The ball used in indoor cricket is a modified ], with a softer centre. The ball also differs in that it is yellow in colour so to make it more obvious to see indoors against varied backgrounds. Both traditional outdoor cricket bats or more specialised lighter-weight indoor cricket bats may be used. The gloves are typically lightweight cotton with no protective padding on the outside. The palm-side of the gloves usually have embedded rubber dots to aid grip.

			4. Technique

	====Technique====
	{{Main\|Down-up}}		{{Main\|Down-up}}
	Indoor cricket has its own unique techniques, particularly with regards to batting, in which the batsman looks to hit the ball at the latest possible moment, causing the ball to bounce sharply off the ground, ideally propelling the ball into the top corner of the net, preventing any fielders from making contact with the ball. This stroke technique is typically referred to as ], "slap shot" or a "chop".

			Indoor cricket has its own unique techniques, particularly with regards to batting, in which the batsman looks to hit the ball at the latest possible moment, causing the ball to bounce sharply off the ground, ideally propelling the ball into the top corner of the net, preventing any fielders from making contact with the ball. This stroke technique is typically referred to as ], "slap shot" or a "chop".
	The technique of bowling is also slightly different to that of outdoor cricket. As the court is enclosed in nets, the length of a bowlers run up is severely shortened. This shortened length means that moving the ball or swinging the ball is almost as important as the pace of the ball.<ref></ref>

			The technique of bowling is also slightly different to that of outdoor cricket. As the court is enclosed in nets, the length of a bowlers run up is severely shortened. This shortened length means that moving the ball or swinging the ball is almost as important as the pace of the ball.

			5.Scoring

	====Scoring====
	Scoring in indoor cricket is split into 2 areas: physical runs and bonus runs. Physical runs are scored by both batsmen completing a run from one crease to the other. Bonus runs are scored when the ball hits a net. Bonus scores for particular parts of the nets follow:		Scoring in indoor cricket is split into 2 areas: physical runs and bonus runs. Physical runs are scored by both batsmen completing a run from one crease to the other. Bonus runs are scored when the ball hits a net. Bonus scores for particular parts of the nets follow:
	*Zone A (front net - '''behind''' the keeper): 0 runs		*Zone A (front net - '''behind''' the keeper): 0 runs
Line 48:		Line 86:
	**On the full: 6 runs		**On the full: 6 runs
	*Zone B or C onto Zone D: 3 runs		*Zone B or C onto Zone D: 3 runs
	NB: For bonus runs to be scored, at least one physical run must be scored. The bonus runs are then added to the physical runs. For example, a batsman strikes the ball, hitting the back net on the full (6) and makes one physical run, for a total of 7 runs.~~<ref name='rules' />~~		NB: For bonus runs to be scored, at least one physical run must be scored. The bonus runs are then added to the physical runs. For example, a batsman strikes the ball, hitting the back net on the full (6) and makes one physical run, for a total of 7 runs.

			6. Dismissals

	====Dismissals====
	A batsman can be dismissed in the same ways they can be in conventional cricket - with variations in the case of LBW and mankad (see below) - and with the exception of ''timed out''. When a batsman gets dismissed, however, five runs are deducted from their total and they continue to bat. Batsmen bat in pairs for 4 overs at a time, irrespective of whether they are dismissed. A player can also be "caught" by a ball rebounding off a net as long as it has not previously touched the ground. This negates any physical or bonus runs that might have been awarded.		A batsman can be dismissed in the same ways they can be in conventional cricket - with variations in the case of LBW and mankad (see below) - and with the exception of ''timed out''. When a batsman gets dismissed, however, five runs are deducted from their total and they continue to bat. Batsmen bat in pairs for 4 overs at a time, irrespective of whether they are dismissed. A player can also be "caught" by a ball rebounding off a net as long as it has not previously touched the ground. This negates any physical or bonus runs that might have been awarded.

	A method of dismissal in indoor cricket that is far more prevalent than its outdoor counterpart is the ]. A mankad is given out if the bowler completes their bowling action without releasing the ball, breaks the stumps at their end without letting go of the ball and the non-striker is out of their ground.		'''Mankads''': A method of dismissal in indoor cricket that is far more prevalent than its outdoor counterpart is the ]. A mankad is given out if the bowler completes their bowling action without releasing the ball, breaks the stumps at their end without letting go of the ball and the non-striker is out of their ground.

	Whilst ] is a valid form of dismissal in indoor cricket, it is a far rarer occurrence in indoor than it is in outdoor cricket. A batsman can only be dismissed ~~lbw~~ if he does not offer a shot and the umpire is satisfied that the ball would then have hit the stumps.~~<ref~~ ~~name='rules'~~ />		'''LBW''': Whilst LBW is still a valid form of dismissal in indoor cricket, it is a far rarer occurrence in indoor than it is in outdoor cricket. A batsman can only be dismissed LBW if he does not offer a shot and the umpire is satisfied that the ball would then have hit the stumps. This rule came into effect on 1 July 2007.

	~~====~~Officials~~====~~		7.Officials
	Indoor cricket is officiated by one umpire who is situated outside of the playing area at the strike batsmen's end of the court. The umpire sits or stands on a raised platform that is usually 3 metres above ground level.<ref name='rules' /> Secondary officials (such as scorers or video umpires) have sometimes been utilised in national or international competition.

			Indoor cricket is officiated by one umpire who is situated outside of the playing area at the strike batsmen's end of the court. The umpire sits or stands on a raised platform that is usually 3 metres above ground level. Secondary officials (such as scorers or video umpires) have sometimes been utilised in national or international competition.
	====Result====
	The team with the higher score at the conclusion of each innings is declared the winner of the match. The second innings continues for a full 16 overs even if the batting side passes the first innings total due to the possibility of a side finishing behind a total even after they have surpassed it (see dismissals above).<ref name='rules' />

			8.Result
	In most cases indoor cricket is played according to a skins system, where the batting partnerships from each innings are compared against one another and the higher of the two is deemed to have won the skin. For example, the second batting partnership in the first innings might score 5 runs whilst the second partnership in the second innings scores 10 - the latter would be deemed to have won the skin. The team that has won the greater of the four skins available is often awarded the win if the totals are tied.<ref name='rules' />

			The team with the higher score at the conclusion of each innings is declared the winner of the match. The second innings continues for a full 16 overs even if the batting side passes the first innings total due to the possibility of a side finishing behind a total even after they have surpassed it (see dismissals above).

			In most cases indoor cricket is played according to a skins system, where the batting partnerships from each innings are compared against one another and the higher of the two is deemed to have won the skin. For example, the second batting partnership in the first innings might score 5 runs whilst the second partnership in the second innings scores 10 - the latter would be deemed to have won the skin. The team that has won the greater of the four skins available is often awarded the win if the totals are tied.

	==Types of match and competition==		==Types of match and competition==

	Indoor cricket is typically played either as a six- or eight-a-side match, and with six- or eight-ball overs respectively~~<ref name='rules' />~~. The game can be played in men's, women's and mixed competitions. Permutations of the game include bonus overs (where the bonus score is double, dismissals result in seven (7) runs (cf. five (5) runs) being deducted from the team score and fielding restrictions removed.)		Indoor cricket is typically played either as a six- or eight-a-side match, and with six- or eight-ball overs respectively. The game can be played in men's, women's and mixed competitions. Permutations of the game include bonus overs (where the bonus score is double, dismissals result in seven (7) runs (cf. five (5) runs) being deducted from the team score and fielding restrictions removed.)

	===Test Match===		===Test Match===
	Test indoor cricket is the highest standard of indoor cricket and is played between members of the ]~~<ref name='wicf'></ref>~~.		Test indoor cricket is the highest standard of 8 aside indoor cricket and is played between members of the ].

	The first international Test matches were played between ] and ] in 1985. Those sides have since been joined on the international stage by ] (1990), ] (1991), ] (1998), ] (1998), ] (2000), ] (2000), ] (2002), the ] (2004), ] (2007), ] (2007) and ] (2007).		The first international Test matches were played between ] and ] in 1985. Those sides have since been joined on the international stage by ] (1990), ] (1991), ] (1998), ] (1998), ] (2000), ] (2000), ] (2002), the ] (2004), ] (2007), ] (2007) and ] (2007).

	Test matches are usually played in a group of matches called a "series" featuring two to four nations. These series can consist of three to five matches and where more than two nations are involved, may also include a finals series.~~<ref name='wicf' />~~ Matches played at ] events are also considered Test matches.		Test matches are usually played in a group of matches called a "series" featuring two to four nations. These series can consist of three to five matches and where more than two nations are involved, may also include a finals series. Matches played at ] events are also considered Test matches.

	International competition is also organised for juniors and masters age groups. The matches are considered Test matches within their respective divisions.~~<ref name='wicf' />~~		International competition is also organised for juniors and masters age groups. The matches are considered Test matches within their respective divisions.

	Since 1985, most Test series between Australia and New Zealand have played for the Trans Tasman trophy. Similarly, since 1990, Test series between Australia and England have been played for a trophy known as The Ashes, a name borrowed from ] contested by the same nations in outdoor cricket.~~<ref name='wicf' />~~		Since 1985, most Test series between Australia and New Zealand have played for the Trans Tasman trophy. Similarly, since 1990, Test series between Australia and England have been played for a trophy known as The Ashes, a name borrowed from ] contested by the same nations in outdoor cricket.

	===National Championships===		===National Championships===
	Each member nation of the WICF usually holds its own national titles. In Australia, states and territories compete in the Australian Indoor Cricket Championships (as well as the now defunct National League).~~<ref>~~</ref>~~~~		Each member nation of the WICF usually holds its own national titles. In Australia, states and territories compete in the Australian Indoor Cricket Championships (as well as the now defunct National League). The most successful state to date has been ] with numerous titles in each contested division.

	The national competition in New Zealand is referred to as the Tri Series and is contested by three provinces - Northern, Central and Southern.~~<ref></ref>~~		The national competition in New Zealand is referred to as the Tri Series and is contested by three provinces - Northern, Central and Southern.

	National championships contested elsewhere in the world include South Africa's ~~National~~ Championship~~<ref></ref>~~ and England's National League~~<ref></ref>~~.		National championships contested elsewhere in the world include South Africa's Provincial Championship and England's National League.

			Most nations draw their national representative sides from the players who take part in their national championships. As a result, national sides are selected for one year and will contest any Test matches played between their selection and the selection of the next national side.

	===Minor Competition===		===Minor Competition===
	In addition to social competition played throughout the world there are several state leagues and competitions within each nation~~.<ref></ref>~~. Various states, provinces or geographical areas organise their own state championships (referred to in Australia as "Superleague" - not to be confused with the ]). Various districts, centres or arenas take part in these competitions.~~<ref></ref>~~		In addition to social competition played throughout the world there are several state leagues and competitions within each nation. Various states, provinces or geographical areas organise their own state championships (referred to in Australia as "Superleague" - not to be confused with the ]). Various districts, centres or arenas take part in these competitions.

	===World Cup===		===World Cup===
Line 95:		Line 138:

	==Origin and development of indoor cricket==		==Origin and development of indoor cricket==
	The first significant example of organised indoor cricket took place, somewhat unusually, in ]. A tournament was held under the auspices of the Husum Cricket Club in a hall in ] in the winter of 1968-69<ref name="shorter" />.		The first significant example of organised indoor cricket took place, somewhat unusually, in ]. A tournament was held under the auspices of the Husum Cricket Club in a hall in ] in the winter of 1968-69.<ref name="shorter">, September 7, 2007.</ref>

	It wasn't until the 1970s that the game began to take shape as a codified sport. Conceived as a way of keeping cricketers involved during the winter months, various six-a-side leagues were formed throughout ] in the first half of the decade, eventually leading to the first national competition held in March 1976 at the Sobell Center in Islington<ref name="shorter" />~~. This distinct form of indoor cricket is ].~~		It wasn't until the 1970s that the game began to take shape as a codified sport. Conceived as a way of keeping cricketers involved during the winter months, various six-a-side leagues were formed throughout ] in the first half of the decade, eventually leading to the first national competition held in March 1976 at the Sobell Center in Islington.<ref name="shorter" />

	Despite the early popularity of the sport in England, a different version of indoor cricket developed by two different parties in ], ] in the late 1970s evolved into the sport known as indoor cricket today. Against the backdrop of the upheaval in the conventional game caused by World Series Cricket, torrential rain and a desire to keep their charges active led cricket school administrators ] and ] to set up netted arenas indoors. Concurrently, entrepreneurs ] and ] began creating an eight-a-side game that eventually led to the nationwide franchise known as ] (ICA). It was not long before hundreds of ICA-branded stadiums were set up throughout Australia, leading to the first national championships held in 1984 at a time where over 200,000 people were estimated to be participating in the sport<ref name="shorter" />.

			Despite the early popularity of the sport in England, a different version of indoor cricket developed by two different parties in ], ] in the late 1970s evolved into the sport known as indoor cricket today. Against the backdrop of the upheaval in the conventional game caused by World Series Cricket, torrential rain and a desire to keep their charges active led cricket school administrators ] and ] to set up netted arenas indoors. Concurrently, entrepreneurs ] and ] began creating an eight-a-side game that eventually led to the nationwide franchise known as ] (ICA). It was not long before hundreds of ICA-branded stadiums were set up throughout Australia, leading to the first national championships held in 1984 at a time where over 200,000 people were estimated to be participating in the sport.<ref name="shorter" />
	The sport underwent several organisational changes, most notably in Australia and in South Africa (where competing organisations fought for control of the sport), but the game has changed little since that time and has risen in popularity in several nations. Under the auspices of the World Indoor Cricket Federation the sport has reached a point where is played according to the same standard rules in major competitions throughout the world.		The sport underwent several organisational changes, most notably in Australia and in South Africa (where competing organisations fought for control of the sport), but the game has changed little since that time and has risen in popularity in several nations. Under the auspices of the World Indoor Cricket Federation the sport has reached a point where is played according to the same standard rules in major competitions throughout the world.

	==International structure of indoor cricket==		==International structure of indoor cricket==
	The World Indoor Cricket Federation, which has its headquarters in Brisbane is the international governing body of cricket. It was founded prior to the 1995 World Cup by representatives from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and England.~~<ref></ref>~~		The World Indoor Cricket Federation, which has its headquarters in Brisbane is the international governing body of cricket. It was founded prior to the 1995 World Cup by representatives from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and England.

	All nations that have competed internationally are affiliated with the WICF to varying degrees. The WICF is responsible for the organisation and governance of indoor cricket's major international tournaments, most notably the Indoor Cricket World Cup, the Junior World Series of Indoor Cricket and the Masters World Series of Indoor Cricket. It also appoints the umpires and referees that officiate at all Test matches.		All nations that have competed internationally are affiliated with the WICF to varying degrees. The WICF is responsible for the organisation and governance of indoor cricket's major international tournaments, most notably the Indoor Cricket World Cup, the Junior World Series of Indoor Cricket and the Masters World Series of Indoor Cricket. It also appoints the umpires and referees that officiate at all Test matches.

	Each member nation has its own national body which regulates matches played in its country. The national bodies are responsible for selecting representatives for its national side and organising home and away internationals for the side.		Each member nation has its own national body which regulates matches played in its country. The national bodies are responsible for selecting representatives for its national side and organising home and away internationals for the side.

	==Other forms of indoor cricket==

	===Conventional cricket indoors===

	Conventional cricket matches have taken place at covered venues (usually featuring a retractable roof) and can thus be regarded as cricket being played indoors. Such matches are relatively infrequent and come with added complications in the event that the ball makes contact with the roof while in play.<ref></ref>

	===UK variant===
	{{Main\|Indoor cricket (UK variant)}}

	A version of indoor cricket (bearing greater resemblance to conventional cricket) is played exclusively in the United Kingdom. This variant sees the six players on each team utilise the same playing and protective equipment that can be found in outdoor cricket, and is played in indoor facilities that differ greatly from the international form of indoor cricket<ref></ref>.

	Despite lacking international competition, this form of indoor cricket enjoys a strong following in the UK, and, like its international counterpart, enjoys the support of the ]<ref></ref>

	==Notes==		==Notes==
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	'''Australian State Bodies'''		'''Australian State Bodies'''
	*		*
	*		*
	*		*
	*		*
Line 147:		Line 176:

	'''Other Links'''		'''Other Links'''
			*
	*
			*

	==See also==		==See also==

Revision as of 17:52, 27 January 2013

This article includes a list of references, related reading, or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. Please help improve this article by introducing more precise citations. (January 2013) (Learn how and when to remove this message)

Indoor cricket is a variant of and shares many basic concepts with cricket. There are two separate formats of indoor cricket. The more traditional 6 aside version of the game is most prevalent in the UK with many leagues around the country. This is the format which bears most in common with its outdoor cousin, with a hard ball and a full length pitch being used. A new, 8 aside version of the game was invented in Australia and features several dramatic differences that make it all but unrecognisable from the outdoor game, including the use of nets as safety netting, a shortened pitch and a soft ball.

Conventional cricket has been played indoors at the Docklands Stadium in Melbourne, Australia, but there are no other enclosed stadiums with a playing surface the size of a full-sized cricket field in any major cricket playing country. The codified sport of indoor cricket is not to be confused with conventional cricket played indoors.

The game of indoor cricket

In terms of the concept of the game indoor cricket is similar to cricket. Like its outdoor cousin, indoor cricket involves two batsmen, a bowler and a team of fielders. The bowler bowls the ball to the batsmen who must score runs. The team with the highest score at the end of the match wins. Despite these basic similarities, the game itself differs significantly from its traditional counterpart in several ways, most notably on the field of play and the means by which runs are obtained.

Typical rules for the 6 aside version of the game

The rules of 6-aside indoor cricket are identical to that of outdoor cricket with the following exceptions

1. Each match will consist of one innings per teams of six players.

2. Each innings will consist of a maximum of ten overs of six balls.

3. No bowler may bowl more than three overs. If for any reason a bowler is unable to complete an over the outstanding deliveries will be bowled by another bowler who has not bowled more than three overs.

4. All bowling will take place from the same end of the pitch.

5. When a batsman reaches a personal total of twenty-five runs he must retire, but may return to the crease in the event of his side being dismissed within the ten overs. Note: He actually returns when there is still one batsman to be dismissed and may take strike immediately.

6. Two batsmen will be at the wicket at all times during an innings. In the event of a team losing five wickets within the ten overs the last man will continue batting with the fifth man out remaining at the wicket as a runner.

7. A batsman may be caught out and dismissed directly off the side wall, provided the ball has not hit the floor.

8. In view of the importance of run aggregate, matches should be played out, i.e. even though the team batting second has won the match, it should continue batting until it has used all its ten overs or has been dismissed.

System of Scoring

A ball that is struck to hit the boundary wall behind the bowler without touching the floor or any other part of the wall or roof part scores six runs.

A ball that is struck to hit the boundary wall behind the bowler and also touches the floor but does not touch any of the other walls or roof and hits the back boundary wall scores four runs.

A ball struck to hit one or more of the side walls will count as one run, even if the ball subsequently hits the back boundary wall. If the ball is struck to hit a side wall and a batsmen is then run out one run will still be scored.

A ball struck directly to hit the roof becomes dead immediately. No runs will be scored and there will be no dismissal. The ball will not be rebowled. A ball that hits the roof having previously hit the side wall is still in play.

Two runs will be scored if the batsmen complete a run at any time. These runs may be scored on top of a run for hitting a side wall, including a bye or leg bye, but not on top of a boundary.

A bye will count as one run if the ball bowled hits a wall. A leg bye will count as one run if the ball hits a side wall.

If the bowler oversteps the crease, bowls a full toss over waist height, or the ball does not pitch on the playing mat a no ball will be called and the batting side will be awarded one run. An extra ball will be bowled. Any runs on top of this will still count as usual.

Wide balls will be called as with orthodox cricket rules.

Rules for Australian 8 aside Net Cricket:

1. Playing arena

Main article: Indoor cricket court

The length of an indoor cricket pitch is the same as a conventional cricket pitch, and has 3 stumps at each end, but there the similarities end. The arena is completely enclosed by tight netting, a few metres from each side and end of the pitch. The playing surface is normally artificial grass matting. Whilst the pitch is the same length, however, the batsmen don't have to run the entire length. The striker's crease is in the regulation place in front of the stumps, but the non-striker's crease is only halfway down the pitch.

2. Players

Indoor cricket is played between 2 teams of 8 players. Each player must bowl 2 overs, and bat in a partnership for 4 overs. A faster version of the game exists, where each side is reduced to 6 players and each innings lasts 12 overs instead of 16.

3. Equipment

The stumps used in indoor cricket are not, for obvious reasons, stuck in the ground. Instead, they are collapsible spring-loaded stumps that immediately spring back to the standing position when knocked over. The ball used in indoor cricket is a modified cricket ball, with a softer centre. The ball also differs in that it is yellow in colour so to make it more obvious to see indoors against varied backgrounds. Both traditional outdoor cricket bats or more specialised lighter-weight indoor cricket bats may be used. The gloves are typically lightweight cotton with no protective padding on the outside. The palm-side of the gloves usually have embedded rubber dots to aid grip.

4. Technique

Main article: Down-up

Indoor cricket has its own unique techniques, particularly with regards to batting, in which the batsman looks to hit the ball at the latest possible moment, causing the ball to bounce sharply off the ground, ideally propelling the ball into the top corner of the net, preventing any fielders from making contact with the ball. This stroke technique is typically referred to as down-up, "slap shot" or a "chop".

The technique of bowling is also slightly different to that of outdoor cricket. As the court is enclosed in nets, the length of a bowlers run up is severely shortened. This shortened length means that moving the ball or swinging the ball is almost as important as the pace of the ball.

5.Scoring

Scoring in indoor cricket is split into 2 areas: physical runs and bonus runs. Physical runs are scored by both batsmen completing a run from one crease to the other. Bonus runs are scored when the ball hits a net. Bonus scores for particular parts of the nets follow:

Zone A (front net - behind the keeper): 0 runs
Zone B (side nets between the striker's end and halfway down the pitch): 1 run
Zone C (side nets between halfway and the bowlers end): 2 runs
Zone D (back net - behind the bowler): 4 or 6 runs depending on the manner in which the ball hit the back net.
- On the bounce: 4 runs
- On the full: 6 runs
Zone B or C onto Zone D: 3 runs

NB: For bonus runs to be scored, at least one physical run must be scored. The bonus runs are then added to the physical runs. For example, a batsman strikes the ball, hitting the back net on the full (6) and makes one physical run, for a total of 7 runs.

6. Dismissals

A batsman can be dismissed in the same ways they can be in conventional cricket - with variations in the case of LBW and mankad (see below) - and with the exception of timed out. When a batsman gets dismissed, however, five runs are deducted from their total and they continue to bat. Batsmen bat in pairs for 4 overs at a time, irrespective of whether they are dismissed. A player can also be "caught" by a ball rebounding off a net as long as it has not previously touched the ground. This negates any physical or bonus runs that might have been awarded.

Mankads: A method of dismissal in indoor cricket that is far more prevalent than its outdoor counterpart is the mankad. A mankad is given out if the bowler completes their bowling action without releasing the ball, breaks the stumps at their end without letting go of the ball and the non-striker is out of their ground.

LBW: Whilst LBW is still a valid form of dismissal in indoor cricket, it is a far rarer occurrence in indoor than it is in outdoor cricket. A batsman can only be dismissed LBW if he does not offer a shot and the umpire is satisfied that the ball would then have hit the stumps. This rule came into effect on 1 July 2007.

7.Officials

Indoor cricket is officiated by one umpire who is situated outside of the playing area at the strike batsmen's end of the court. The umpire sits or stands on a raised platform that is usually 3 metres above ground level. Secondary officials (such as scorers or video umpires) have sometimes been utilised in national or international competition.

8.Result

The team with the higher score at the conclusion of each innings is declared the winner of the match. The second innings continues for a full 16 overs even if the batting side passes the first innings total due to the possibility of a side finishing behind a total even after they have surpassed it (see dismissals above).

In most cases indoor cricket is played according to a skins system, where the batting partnerships from each innings are compared against one another and the higher of the two is deemed to have won the skin. For example, the second batting partnership in the first innings might score 5 runs whilst the second partnership in the second innings scores 10 - the latter would be deemed to have won the skin. The team that has won the greater of the four skins available is often awarded the win if the totals are tied.

Types of match and competition

Indoor cricket is typically played either as a six- or eight-a-side match, and with six- or eight-ball overs respectively. The game can be played in men's, women's and mixed competitions. Permutations of the game include bonus overs (where the bonus score is double, dismissals result in seven (7) runs (cf. five (5) runs) being deducted from the team score and fielding restrictions removed.)

Test Match

Test indoor cricket is the highest standard of 8 aside indoor cricket and is played between members of the World Indoor Cricket Federation.

The first international Test matches were played between Australia and New Zealand in 1985. Those sides have since been joined on the international stage by England (1990), South Africa (1991), Zimbabwe (1998), Namibia (1998), India (2000), Pakistan (2000), Sri Lanka (2002), the United Arab Emirates (2004), Wales (2007), France (2007) and Guernsey (2007).

Test matches are usually played in a group of matches called a "series" featuring two to four nations. These series can consist of three to five matches and where more than two nations are involved, may also include a finals series. Matches played at World Cup events are also considered Test matches.

International competition is also organised for juniors and masters age groups. The matches are considered Test matches within their respective divisions.

Since 1985, most Test series between Australia and New Zealand have played for the Trans Tasman trophy. Similarly, since 1990, Test series between Australia and England have been played for a trophy known as The Ashes, a name borrowed from the trophy contested by the same nations in outdoor cricket.

National Championships

Each member nation of the WICF usually holds its own national titles. In Australia, states and territories compete in the Australian Indoor Cricket Championships (as well as the now defunct National League). The most successful state to date has been Queensland with numerous titles in each contested division.

The national competition in New Zealand is referred to as the Tri Series and is contested by three provinces - Northern, Central and Southern.

National championships contested elsewhere in the world include South Africa's Provincial Championship and England's National League.

Most nations draw their national representative sides from the players who take part in their national championships. As a result, national sides are selected for one year and will contest any Test matches played between their selection and the selection of the next national side.

Minor Competition

In addition to social competition played throughout the world there are several state leagues and competitions within each nation. Various states, provinces or geographical areas organise their own state championships (referred to in Australia as "Superleague" - not to be confused with the ill-fated Rugby League competition). Various districts, centres or arenas take part in these competitions.

World Cup

Main article: Indoor Cricket World Cup

The Indoor Cricket World cup was first held in Birmingham, England in 1995 and has run every two or three years since. The event usually also features age-group, masters' and women's competitions. The last World Cup was held in South Africa in 2011. Australia came first in the boys', girls', women's and men's competitions.

Origin and development of indoor cricket

The first significant example of organised indoor cricket took place, somewhat unusually, in Germany. A tournament was held under the auspices of the Husum Cricket Club in a hall in Flensburg in the winter of 1968-69.

It wasn't until the 1970s that the game began to take shape as a codified sport. Conceived as a way of keeping cricketers involved during the winter months, various six-a-side leagues were formed throughout England in the first half of the decade, eventually leading to the first national competition held in March 1976 at the Sobell Center in Islington.

Despite the early popularity of the sport in England, a different version of indoor cricket developed by two different parties in Perth, Western Australia in the late 1970s evolved into the sport known as indoor cricket today. Against the backdrop of the upheaval in the conventional game caused by World Series Cricket, torrential rain and a desire to keep their charges active led cricket school administrators Dennis Lillee and Graeme Monaghan to set up netted arenas indoors. Concurrently, entrepreneurs Paul Hanna and Michael Jones began creating an eight-a-side game that eventually led to the nationwide franchise known as Indoor Cricket Arenas (ICA). It was not long before hundreds of ICA-branded stadiums were set up throughout Australia, leading to the first national championships held in 1984 at a time where over 200,000 people were estimated to be participating in the sport. The sport underwent several organisational changes, most notably in Australia and in South Africa (where competing organisations fought for control of the sport), but the game has changed little since that time and has risen in popularity in several nations. Under the auspices of the World Indoor Cricket Federation the sport has reached a point where is played according to the same standard rules in major competitions throughout the world.

International structure of indoor cricket

The World Indoor Cricket Federation, which has its headquarters in Brisbane is the international governing body of cricket. It was founded prior to the 1995 World Cup by representatives from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and England.

All nations that have competed internationally are affiliated with the WICF to varying degrees. The WICF is responsible for the organisation and governance of indoor cricket's major international tournaments, most notably the Indoor Cricket World Cup, the Junior World Series of Indoor Cricket and the Masters World Series of Indoor Cricket. It also appoints the umpires and referees that officiate at all Test matches.

Each member nation has its own national body which regulates matches played in its country. The national bodies are responsible for selecting representatives for its national side and organising home and away internationals for the side.

Notes

External links

National Bodies

Australian State Bodies

New Zealand Provincial Bodies

Other Links

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