9 of 11

Write now Article Tools

Page 3 of 3

before wicket). The wicket-keeper is the batsman's nemesis, and is ever keen to knock off the bails at any opportunity after catching the ball when it flies past the wicket - always in the hope that the ball clipped the bat or the batsman strayed outside his crease.

Over the course of a match, the ball (which is red, extremely hard, made of layers of core cork and leather, and must strictly weigh between 5.5 - 6oz) cannot be changed unless under the strictest laws of the game. A ball should last the complete innings and at least 80 overs in test matches.

This prolonged use can affect the properties of the ball and influence its flight. Consequently a bowler will polish his ball on one side by rubbing it around his groin area, or on the sleeve, which results in the characteristic red stains on his whites (trousers). Polishing it in this fashion can determine the "swing", and some bowlers will spit on the ball prior to polishing. Ball tampering is a serious offence in cricket, and any form of physical interference, other than spit and polish, is forbidden.

The match is won by the side which scores the highest number of runs over the two innings in the set number of overs, and on the aggregate over the five tests, regardless of whether all players have had their day at the crease.

And now the big question. What is a googly? It's a ball bowled by a right-arm spin bowler, designed to confuse a right-handed batsman by appearing to spin from leg to off, but actually spins in the opposite direction. Hence the term "to throw a googly", meaning to confuse or upset an opponent, either in sport or business.

Finally, a batsman is only called out if the umpire says so. And he won't say so, unless he's asked. How's that? That's right! "Howzat" is the challenge to the umpire in order to get his reaction, and he will raise his index finger if it's a good call. If anyone sticks up a middle digit in response to his decision then he'll likely be dismissed, because that is, along with all other forms of ungentlemanly conduct, certainly not cricket!

Learn more about this author, Bar De Ness.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2
• 3

Add your voice

Know something about A guide to cricket terms and expressions?
We want to hear your view. Write now!