The term "no ball" is commonly used in cricket to refer to an illegal delivery. The spelling of this term can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "no," is pronounced as /nəʊ/, which represents the long vowel sound in British English. The second syllable, "ball," is pronounced as /bɔːl/, with a long "o" sound, and the final "l" is not silent. Overall, the spelling accurately represents the pronunciation of the term, making it easy for players and fans alike to understand.
"No ball" is a term commonly used in the sport of cricket to describe an illegal delivery by a bowler. A "no ball" occurs when the bowler fails to deliver the ball within the specified regulations outlined by the rules of the game.
In cricket, a bowler must release the ball from behind a specific line on the pitch known as the popping crease. If any part of the bowler's front foot crosses or lands on this line, or if the bowler delivers the ball without any part of their back foot grounded behind this line, it will be considered a "no ball."
When a "no ball" is bowled, scoring for the batting team is affected. Unlike a legal delivery where a batsman can be dismissed by getting out, a "no ball" does not allow the batsman to be dismissed. Instead, the batting team receives an additional run, known as a "no ball" run, and the delivery is deemed a "free hit." During a "free hit," the batsman cannot be out through any mode of dismissal except for a run-out.
To indicate a "no ball," the umpire extends their arm horizontally, signaling a "no ball." This alerts players, spectators, and scoring officials that the delivery was illegal and the bowler has to bowl again without the potential of dismissing the batsman directly.