If you’re just starting out in cricket, things can get confusing fast. You might watch a local match one day and an international game the next—and they seem almost like different sports. The rules look similar, but teams play in very different ways.
So what’s going on? Are there two different sets of cricket rules and regulations? Not quite. The truth is: the basic rules of cricket stay the same, but how they’re applied can change based on match level and format.
This simple guide will help you understand the cricket rules that apply across the board, along with the differences between local matches and international games. If you want to follow or play cricket with confidence, you’re in the right place.
Are Cricket Rules the Same Everywhere?
Yes—and no. The main rules of cricket are made by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). These apply globally. Whether you’re playing in a village ground or watching a World Cup final, the basics remain the same:
- 11 players per team
- Two innings (or one, depending on format)
- Batting, bowling, and fielding roles
- Scoring through runs
- Getting batsmen out using set methods
But the match conditions, level of umpiring, and rule enforcement can differ between local and international games.
Standard Rules of Cricket Everyone Must Follow
These core rules apply to every match, local or international.
1. Two Teams of 11 Players
Each team has 11 players, including batsmen, bowlers, fielders, and a wicketkeeper.
2. Overs
One over consists of six legal deliveries. The number of overs depends on the format.
3. Scoring Runs
Runs are scored by:
- Running between wickets
- Hitting the ball to the boundary (4 or 6)
4. Ways to Get Out
Common dismissals include:
- Bowled
- Caught
- LBW
- Run Out
- Stumped
- Hit Wicket
5. The Toss
Before the game starts, team captains flip a coin. The winner decides to bat or bowl first.
6. Fielding Restrictions
Certain rules control where fielders can stand, especially during powerplays in shorter formats.
7. No Balls and Wides
Bowling violations like overstepping or bowling too wide give extra runs and deliveries to the batting side.
Cricket Rules in Local Matches
Local games often follow standard cricket rules but can include small changes for convenience or time.
Common Adjustments:
- Overs per side: May be 6, 10, 15, or 20 depending on time
- No third umpire: All decisions made by on-field umpires
- No DRS: Teams accept umpire decisions without reviews
- Flexible batting order: Teams may mix things up for fun or fairness
- Underarm bowling sometimes allowed in casual setups
Note: While local games might tweak the rules, they still follow the core structure. This keeps cricket fair, fun, and familiar at every level.
Cricket Rules in International Matches
At the top level, matches follow official regulations set by the International Cricket Council (ICC). These are strict and applied by trained officials.
Key Features of International Cricket:
1. Match Formats
- Test Matches: 5-day matches, two innings per team
- ODIs: 50 overs per side
- T20 Internationals: 20 overs per side
2. Powerplays
Limited-overs games have powerplays:
- ODI: 3 powerplay phases (1–10, 11–40, 41–50 overs)
- T20: First 6 overs with field restrictions
3. DRS (Decision Review System)
Each team can review umpire decisions using video technology.
Helps reduce mistakes and improves fairness.
4. Player Conduct Rules
Players must follow a strict code of conduct. Breaking it can lead to fines or match bans.
5. Neutral Umpires
To avoid bias, matches use neutral umpires from countries not involved in the game.
6. Use of Technology
- Third umpire for close decisions
- Ball-tracking for LBW calls
- Edge detection (Snicko, UltraEdge)
How Are Rules Enforced Differently?
| Feature | Local Matches | International Games |
|---|---|---|
| Umpiring | One or two local umpires | Trained and certified umpires |
| Reviews | None | DRS used with technology |
| Player conduct | Informal or self-managed | Strict codes with penalties |
| Match setup | Flexible (based on time) | Fixed formats and ICC guidelines |
| Field restrictions | Often relaxed | Must follow official powerplay rules |
Why Rules Vary by Match Level
Local cricket is played for fun, training, or community competitions. It needs flexibility for time, players, and conditions.
International cricket is professional. It requires tight rule enforcement to ensure fairness, broadcast quality, and global standards.
Real-World Examples of Rule Impact
- In backyard cricket, rules like “one bounce, one hand” are common—but never allowed in official games.
- In international matches, even a small no-ball can decide a final, like in the 2016 T20 World Cup when a last-over wide changed the outcome.
- The DRS system has reversed many wrong LBW decisions in recent ICC events.
These examples show how rule enforcement and match level change the game.
Tips for Following Cricket Rules in Any Match
- Always check match format: T20, ODI, Test, or local?
- Watch how overs and field settings are handled early on
- Keep an eye on umpire signals—they tell you about dismissals, no-balls, wides, and reviews
- Learn the basic signs and terms (out, not out, six, four, free hit, etc.)
- Ask local players if you’re unsure about house rules in informal games
FAQ – Cricket Rules and Regulations
What is the main difference between local and international cricket rules?
Local games may adjust for time or resources, but the core rules stay the same.
Who controls international cricket rules?
The MCC creates the rules; the ICC manages global enforcement for international games.
Are umpires the same in local and international matches?
No. International games use professional umpires. Local games may use volunteers or coaches.
Can you use DRS in local matches?
No. DRS needs cameras and systems that only top-level matches can afford.
Are powerplays used in all formats?
Only in limited-overs cricket—ODI and T20—not in Test matches.
Can teams agree on special rules for local matches?
Yes. Teams often agree on changes before a match starts.
Is the toss always used in cricket?
Yes. The toss decides which team bats or bowls first.
Can a match have extra players in local cricket?
Some informal games may allow more players, but it’s not official.
Are all cricket balls the same in every match?
No. Red balls are used in Tests, white balls in ODIs and T20s.
Do local games need neutral umpires?
No. That’s only required in international games.
Final Thoughts: One Sport, Many Setups
Cricket might look different from one ground to the next, but the foundation is always the same. Whether you’re watching a World Cup or playing with your friends in a local park, the cricket rules and regulations create structure, fairness, and fun.
Understanding the differences helps you enjoy every match more—no matter the level.
Want to learn more about formats, player roles, or match-winning tactics? Leave a comment or share this with someone new to the game
