Powerplay (cricket)

Powerplay (cricket)

A powerplay is a feature introduced into One Day International (ODI) cricket in 1991 concerning fielding restrictions.

It is intended to add to the excitement. In a powerplay, restrictions are applied on the fielding team: only 2 or 3 players are allowed outside the 30-yard circle (which depends upon the type of powerplay). There are three powerplays in an ODI cricket innings.

On October 29, 2012 The International Cricket Council made amendments on powerplays.There will be two blocks of Powerplays, instead of three. “In an uninterrupted innings, the first Powerplay will be restricted to the first 10 overs with only two fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle. The second five-over batting Powerplay (in an uninterrupted innings) will have to be completed by the 40th over and only three fielders will be allowed outside the fielding restriction area at the time of delivery. In the non-Powerplay overs, no more than four fielders will be permitted outside the 30-yard circle.”