After an over is completed in cricket, several things happen in order to ensure the smooth continuation of the game. Let’s take a closer look at what happens after an over and how the game progresses.
1. Umpire Signals: Once the six deliveries of an over are bowled, the umpire signals to both teams by calling “Over.” This alerts everyone on the field that the set of six balls has been completed.
2. Change of Ends: After every over, there is a change of ends for the bowler. This means that the bowler who completed the previous over will now switch ends and start bowling from the opposite end of the pitch. This change of ends ensures that both teams have an equal opportunity to bat from both sides of the pitch.
3. Selection of Bowler: The captain of the fielding team has the responsibility of selecting the next bowler for the upcoming over. The captain can choose any player from the fielding team, except for the wicketkeeper, to bowl the next over. The decision of selecting the bowler depends on various factors such as the pitch conditions, the type of bowler needed, and the strategy of the team.
4. Fielding Adjustments: After each over, there is an opportunity for the fielding team to adjust their field placements. The captain, along with the bowler, can discuss and make changes to the fielding positions based on the batsman’s style of play and the situation of the game. Fielders may be moved closer or farther from the batsman, depending on the need to prevent runs or take wickets.
5. Batsmen Switch Ends: At the end of an over, if the batsmen had crossed each other while completing a run, they will switch ends. This means that the batsman who was facing the bowler will now take the strike at the other end, and vice versa. Switching ends after every over ensures that both batsmen get a fair chance to face an equal number of deliveries from each end.
6. Scoring Updates: After an over is completed, the scorers update the official scorecard with the number of runs scored in that over, any extras given (such as wides or no-balls), and any wickets taken. The score is then updated on the scoreboard for the spectators and players to see.
7. Continuation of Play: Once the necessary adjustments are made and the bowler is ready, play continues with the start of the next over. The new bowler will run in from the opposite end and deliver the first ball of the next over, while the batsmen will be prepared to face the new bowler.
It is worth noting that the process mentioned above repeats after every over until the completion of the innings or the game. The continuous rotation of bowlers, change of ends, and adjustments in the fielding positions add to the tactical aspects of the game and keep the game dynamic and interesting.
As an avid cricket fan, I have witnessed numerous instances where the change of bowler after an over has had a significant impact on the game. Captains often strategize to maximize the effectiveness of their bowlers by carefully selecting the right bowler for specific situations. It is fascinating to observe how the game unfolds and evolves with each passing over.
After an over in cricket, there is a change of ends for the bowler, the selection of a new bowler, adjustments in the fielding positions, a switch of ends for the batsmen, scoring updates, and the continuation of play. These elements combine to create the ebb and flow of the game, making cricket a sport that requires both skill and strategy.