Overs and valid deliveries
MCC · 2017 Code · 4th edition · 2026How six valid deliveries form an over, which balls do not count and when a bowler can be replaced.
Law 17 — Six valid balls
An over consists of 6 valid deliveries, with successive overs bowled from opposite ends. It starts when the bowler begins the run-up, or the bowling action if there is no run-up. The umpire calls Over after the sixth valid ball has become dead.
A delivery must actually be made to count. No balls and Wides do not count. Neither do certain dead balls, including a ball made dead before the striker could play it, a qualifying distraction, illegal fielding or a returning player touching the ball without permission. The particular Dead ball rule determines whether a replacement delivery is needed.
Law 17 — Counting and changing bowlers
If the umpire miscounts, that count stands. If an over continues beyond 6 valid deliveries through a miscount, the umpire ends it when the ball next becomes dead, even after an invalid delivery.
A bowler may change ends but cannot bowl consecutive overs, or parts of consecutive overs, in the same innings. An interrupted over is completed when play resumes, unless the innings has ended. The original bowler normally finishes it; incapacity or suspension allows a replacement, who must also satisfy the consecutive-over restriction.
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