How do I score a no ball?

Under Law 21 (2026 Laws), the umpire signals a No ball by extending one arm horizontally, and repeats the signal to the scorers when the ball is dead.

• A 1-run penalty is awarded as soon as No ball is called. It is scored as a No ball extra, debited to the bowler, and stands even if a batter is then out.
• If the striker hits the ball, runs they complete (or a boundary) are credited to the striker and debited to the bowler, as well as the 1-run penalty.
• If the ball is not hit, runs completed are scored as byes or leg byes as appropriate (not against the bowler).
• A No ball does not count as one of the six balls in the over.
• Off a No ball, a batter can only be out Hit the ball twice, Obstructing the field or Run out.

Examples:

• No ball hit for 4: 1 No ball extra + 4 to the striker; 5 runs against the bowler.
• No ball, batters run 2 byes: 1 No ball extra + 2 byes; 1 run against the bowler.

Competition playing conditions can vary this. For example, the ECB's 2026 20-over playing conditions made the delivery after a No ball a free hit, and the ECB's recommended Under 8 to Under 11 formats award 2 runs for a No ball without re-bowling it (except in the final over).