Signals and Calls

• Make all necessary signals in accordance with the Laws. Signals requiring a call should be delivered in a clear voice to be at least audible within the square and to fielders in the ring. Finish the boundary four signal with your arm across the chest. How many times you wave is up to you. Be an individual with your signals but stick to the basic requirements of the Laws.

• Ensure you work as a team in all signaling procedures. Confer at the end of an over if there is a possibility that something could have been misunderstood.

• Call “play”, “time” and “over” clearly when appropriate. The call of “play” should be made with confidence. On most occasions, it will be the first time the players have heard you speak so the call should convey the message, “I know what I am doing, and I am ready for anything”. Note that “time” should be called for all drinks intervals but it is not necessary to remove the bails.

• Deliver combination calls in the sequence they occur – i.e. no ball, byes or leg byes, boundary, penalty runs.

• Deliver relevant signals side on to scorers – e.g. leg byes, no balls etc. Ensure you position yourself so that the players do not obstruct the scorers view.

• Some signals require the call and signal to be made while the ball is in play such as no ball and wide. Signals and calls are made in the first instance to the players only. Repeat the signal to the scorers when the ball becomes deal. Never signal to scorers while the ball is in play.

• Do not allow the game to proceed until the scorers acknowledge all signals.

• Once established, signals to your partner must be continued for the duration of the match. Ensure clear understanding on what is required. Point of fact; did the ball carry? Did the batsmen cross? Was the wicket broken correctly?

• Get into the habit of signaling from square leg all the time. If something is clear-cut and your partner is not requiring confirmation at least make eye contact. This is a good way of keeping your concentration at a high level.