What happens if a team wastes time?
A · Advanced · What is unfair play, and what happens? · 9 of 20Wasting time is unfair for either side. The first time, the umpire gives a first and final warning; after that, the other side gets 5 penalty runs. A fielding side that wastes time during an over can instead have its bowler taken off for the innings.
How it works
- Fielding side: first time, a warning to the captain. After that, outside an over, 5 runs to the batting side; during an over, the bowler is taken off for the innings.
- Batting side: the striker should be ready when the bowler is ready to run in. First time, a warning to both batters for the innings. After that, 5 runs to the fielding side each time.
- In ICC internationals, the batting side gets a warning, a final warning and then 5 runs to the fielding side for each further delay; the incoming batter must be ready within two minutes in ODIs; and the 60-second stop clock applies between overs.
Tricky cases
Can a batter delay by adjusting gloves before every ball?
Not repeatedly. The striker must be ready when the bowler is. Repeated delay brings a warning and then penalty runs.
Is a slow over rate the same as time-wasting?
No. Over rates are measured across an innings or match and penalised separately; time-wasting is a specific delay the umpires act on during play.
Why the rule exists
Time is part of the contest, especially in timed matches. Deliberate delays could save a match or cost the other side its chance to win.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| The Laws | One first and final warning, then 5 runs or removal of the bowler | L41.9, 41.10 |
| ICC men's internationals | Batter delays: warning, final warning, then 5 runs; 60-second stop clock between overs | PC-O 41.10.3, 41.9.4 |
From the rule book
MCC Laws of Cricket, Laws 41.9 and 41.10, 4th Edition, in force from 1 October 2026. ICC men's playing conditions, clauses 41.9 and 41.10, October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official documents: MCC Laws of Cricket (PDF); ICC playing conditions (PDF).