Imagine a Test match where one team scores 500 runs in the first innings and the other team struggles and is eliminated with just 150 runs.
The captain of a strong team has options. Should my team take another turn at bat, or should the opponent take the turn immediately? This is where the follow-on rule comes into play.
The follow-on rule in cricket is a special rule that primarily applies to Test matches, requiring the team batting first to bat again immediately after the first innings if they have built up a significant lead over their opponents. Allow me to do that.
In Test cricket, the margin must be at least 200 runs. This rule saves time in matches where one team has the upper hand.
A recent example of the follow-on rule in cricket occurred during the third Test match between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on December 17, 2024.
However, India fought back bravely. The follow-on rule is an important strategy that can change the flow of the game.
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Who decides the follow-up rules?
The decision to force a successor is not made automatically. It depends on the captain of the first team. Factors that influence this decision include:
Article 14.2 of the Cricket Act states: “The captain shall notify the opposing captain and umpire of his intention to select this option.” Once notified, the decision cannot be changed. ”
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Why use it?
Forcing a follow-on provides several strategic advantages.
Pressure on opponents: This puts psychological pressure on the batting team as they are already struggling in the first innings. Decrease in draw probability: By forcing the second team to come to bat again sooner, a tied game is less likely.
However, there are also potential drawbacks.
Bowler fatigue: Bowlers may be tired after bowling a full innings, which can affect their performance in the second innings. Pitch deterioration: Pitch wear can make final batting difficult and can favor the bowler as the match progresses.
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How many teams have lost since implementing the follow-on rule?
In Test cricket, there have been four instances where a team lost after forcing a follow-on. Details for these matches are as follows:
Australia vs. England (1894-95)
Location: Sydney Margin of loss: 10 runs
Australia vs England (1981)
Location: Leeds Margin of loss: 18 runs
India vs Australia (2001)
Location: Eden Gardens, Kolkata Margin of loss: 171 runs
New Zealand vs England (2023)
Location: Wellington Margin of loss: 1 run
A recent example of the follow-on rule in cricket occurred during the 3rd Test match between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on 17 December 2024.
In this match, Australia scored a staggering total of 445 runs in the first innings. India faced huge pressure, needing to score 246 runs to avoid being asked to follow. At one point, they struggled with just 51 runs for four wickets, highlighting their unstable situation.
If India fails to achieve the target, Australia could force a follow-on and India would have to bat once again without a break, which would have a significant impact on India’s chances of winning or drawing the match. could have been given.
However, India managed to avoid a follow-up by reaching a total of 246 runs in the first innings in the third Test match against Australia at the Gabba on December 17, 2024.
India, facing huge pressure, scored 167 for six at one point and needed 79 more to avoid a follow-up. Ravindra Jadeja played an important role, scoring 41 runs, while Nitish Kumar Reddy also contributed.
Despite the rain stoppage and heightened tensions, the pair managed to stabilize the innings. After all, India’s ability to outdo their next goal was essential to maintaining their chances in the match.
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