Powerplay rules in ODI and T20 cricket
A powerplay is a set of overs with fielding restrictions. It limits how many fielders can stand outside the 30-yard circle. Fewer fielders in the deep make it easier for batters to hit boundaries.
T20 powerplay
| Overs | Max fielders outside the circle |
|---|---|
| 1 to 6 | 2 |
| 7 to 20 | 5 |
ODI powerplays
| Phase | Overs | Max fielders outside the circle |
|---|---|---|
| Powerplay 1 | 1 to 10 | 2 |
| Powerplay 2 | 11 to 40 | 4 |
| Powerplay 3 | 41 to 50 | 5 |
Rain-shortened matches
When overs are lost, the powerplay length is reduced in proportion. The match officials announce the new powerplay overs.
Slow over-rate penalty
In many competitions, a team that is behind the required over rate must bring one more fielder inside the circle for the remaining overs. This is an in-game penalty that hurts the bowling side at the death.
Breaking the restriction
If too many fielders are outside the circle when the ball is bowled, the umpire calls a no-ball.
Leagues can set their own playing conditions. Always check the rules of the specific tournament.
What is the 30-yard circle?
The circle is an oval line painted about 30 yards, or 27.4 metres, from each set of stumps. Fielders inside it are close enough to stop singles. Fielders outside it can guard the boundary. Powerplay rules only limit how many stand outside.
How teams bat in the powerplay
- Openers try to hit over the inner ring, because only two fielders guard the boundary.
- Teams often want a fast start without losing early wickets.
- Some teams send a big hitter up the order to make the most of the restrictions.
How teams bowl in the powerplay
- Captains often use swing bowlers, because the new ball moves most.
- Taking an early wicket is the best way to slow the batting side down.
- Some teams use a mystery spinner early to surprise attacking batters.
Powerplays in other competitions
| Competition | Powerplay | Max fielders outside the circle |
|---|---|---|
| T20 internationals and most T20 leagues | Overs 1 to 6 | 2 |
| ODIs | Overs 1 to 10 | 2 |
| The Hundred | First 25 balls | 2 |
Some leagues add their own twists, so check each competition's rules.
A shortened-match example
If a T20 is cut to 10 overs per side, the powerplay becomes 3 overs. Officials use a set table so that the powerplay stays roughly the same share of the innings.
Frequently asked questions
How many overs is the powerplay in T20?
The powerplay covers the first six overs of a full 20-over innings.
How many fielders can be outside the circle in the ODI powerplay?
Two in overs 1 to 10, four in overs 11 to 40, and five in overs 41 to 50.
Why is the powerplay important in T20?
With only two fielders on the boundary, it is the easiest time to score quickly. A strong powerplay often sets up the whole innings.
What is the powerplay in The Hundred?
The Hundred has a 25-ball powerplay at the start of each innings, with only two fielders allowed outside the circle.