A super over is a tiebreaker used in T20 cricket (and sometimes in ODIs) when a match ends with both teams scoring equal runs. It is essentially a mini one-over contest played to determine the winner of the match.
How Does a Super Over Work?
-
Each team selects three batsmen and one bowler for the super over.
-
The team that batted second in the match usually bats first in the super over.
-
Each team gets one over (six legal deliveries) to score as many runs as possible.
-
If two wickets fall, the team's super over ends, regardless of balls remaining.
-
The team with the higher score in the super over wins the match.
Rules for Super Over:
-
Tied Super Over: If the super over is also tied, further super overs or specific rules defined by the tournament apply (like boundary count in some past events).
-
Bowler Restrictions: A bowler who bowled the final over of the main match cannot bowl the super over.
-
Fielding Restrictions: The same fielding restrictions for the last over of the match apply.
Famous Super Over Moments:
-
The 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup Final between England and New Zealand was decided by a super over, considered one of the greatest matches in cricket history.
-
India vs New Zealand T20I series in 2020 had multiple super overs, showcasing thrilling finishes.
Strategic Considerations:
-
Selecting the right batsmen and bowler for the super over is crucial.
-
Teams often choose their most aggressive batsmen and a bowler with good control under pressure.
-
Field placements are aggressive to prevent quick singles and boundary hits.
Super overs add an extra layer of excitement and intensity to limited-overs cricket, creating memorable and nail-biting finishes.