What is a back-foot no-ball in cricket? A simple explainer

Mitch Starc was stunned when a back-foot no-ball, not a front-foot one, cost Him in Delhi’s Super Over win against Rajasthan. The rare rule came into play after a third umpire review. Here’s a Quick Dive into this Uncommon Cricket Law.

1. What is a back-foot no-ball?

It happy the bowler’s back foot lands on or outside the return crease during delivery.

For a legal ball, the back foot Must Land Fully Inseed The Return Crease – Not touching or crossing it.

2. How is it different from a front-foot no-ball?

Front foot: some part must be behind the popping crease.

Back Foot: MUST LAND Completely Inside the Return Crease. Touching or going over = no-ball.

3. Why does this rule exist?

To stop bowlers from creating extreme angles that make umpiring dificult.

IT ENSURERES FAIR Play and Keeps Delivery Angles in Check.

4. What Happens If a Back-Foot No-Ball is Called?

Batting Side Gets 1 Extra Run.

Next ball is a free hit.

Batter can’t be dismissed – except by run out, obstructing the field, or handling the ball.

5. Who Calls Back-Foot No-Balls?

Mostly, the on-field umpire does.

In Leagues Like the IPL, The Third Umpire Uses Replays.

It’s harder to spot than front-foot no-balls.

6. Can the foot go outside the return crease in the air?

Yes – Hoving is fin.

Only the point where the foot touches the ground matters.

If that contact is outside or on the crease = no-ball.