Slow Over Rate Fines
Fines in Cricket due to slow overrate
Slow over rate fines are penalties imposed on teams that fail to bowl their overs within the allocated time. In professional cricket, teams are expected to bowl a certain number of overs within a fixed timeframe (typically 3.5 minutes per over). Over rate requirements vary by format:
Test matches: ~13 overs/hour
ODIs: ~14.28 overs/hour
T20Is: ~15 overs/hour
If teams fail to meet these targets, penalties are imposed.
Causes of Slow Over Rate
Frequent Bowling Changes
Slows down play, especially if bowlers switch ends or take time setting up.
Excessive Field Adjustments
Captains repeatedly moving fielders delays the game.
Time Wasting Between Overs
Includes slow walking, long team huddles, or casual transitions.
Extended Discussions Between Players
Prolonged chats between bowler, captain, or wicketkeeper can waste time.
Use of DRS (Decision Review System)
Reviews and replays consume time; however, some allowance is made for this.
Penalties Imposed in Cricketing Leagues
1. International Cricket (ICC Rules)
ODIs & T20Is:
Fine: 20% of match fee per over short
T20I Fielding Penalty:
If the team doesn’t begin the final over on time, only 4 fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle.
Test Matches:
Fine: Match fee deduction
Repeat Offenses: Captain may face suspension
2. Indian Premier League (IPL)
First Offense: ₹12 lakh fine on the captain
Second Offense (Same Season):
₹24 lakh fine on the captain
₹6 lakh or 25% of match fee (whichever is lesser) for other players
Third Offense:
₹30 lakh fine on the captain
1 match suspension
Playoffs: Stricter enforcement and in-match tactical penalties
Penalty Severity by League/Format
League/Format Type of Penalty Severity ICC (T20I) Field restriction + 20% fine Medium – tactical & financial ICC (Test/ODI) Fine + captain suspension (repeat offenses) High – especially in Tests IPL Escalating fines + captain suspension High – strict financial + match ban BBL Fielding penalties + fines Medium – affects game tactics PSL 20% match fee fine + possible suspensions Medium to High The Hundred Immediate fielder reduction Innovative – directly impacts gameplay
