Imagine a Test match where one team scores 500 runs in the first innings and the opposing team struggles and only manages 150 runs.

The captain of the stronger team has a choice: should his team hit again or ask the opponent to hit immediately? This is where the follow-up rule comes into play.

The follow-on rule in cricket is a specific rule, particularly applicable in Test matches, that allows the team that batted first to require the opposing team to bat again immediately after their first innings beats when she has built up a significant lead.

In Test cricket the lead must be at least 200 runs. This rule saves time in games where one team dominates.

A recent example of the follow-on rule in cricket occurred on December 17, 2024, during the third Test match between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.

However, India fought back bravely. The follow-on rule is a key strategy that can change the course of a game.

Check out| Most wins as a captain in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) by 2024-2025

Who decides on the follow-on rule?

The decision to enforce the follow-up action is not automatic; it lies with the captain of the leading team. Factors influencing this decision include:

• The condition of the pitch and the weather.
• The remaining time of the game.
• The physical condition and fatigue level of the bowlers after their previous innings.

Law 14.2 of the Rules of Cricket states: “A captain must inform the opposing captain and the umpires of his intention to exercise this option. “Once notified, the decision cannot be changed.”

What’s next? What is a Boxing Day Test? Check history and India’s record in BGT

Why use it?

Enforcing a follow-up action can have several strategic benefits:

• Pressure on opponents: This puts psychological pressure on the batting line-up as they were already struggling in their first innings.
• Reduced probability of drawing: By forcing the second team to bat again earlier, the likelihood of a draw is reduced.

However, there are also possible disadvantages:

• Bowler Fatigue: Bowlers may be tired after bowling a full innings, which could affect their performance in the second innings.
• Pitch deterioration: Last batting can be challenging due to the wear and tear on the pitch, which may benefit the bowlers more as the game progresses.

For you| BGT 2024-25 Schedule: Team Roster, Match Venues, Time and Location for Live Streaming

How many teams lost after the subsequent rule was enforced?

There have been four instances in Test cricket where a team lost after enforcing extra play. Here are the details of these games:

Australia vs. England (1894-95)

• Location: Sydney
• Margin of loss: 10 runs

Australia vs. England (1981)

• Location: Leeds
• Margin of loss: 18 runs

India vs Australia (2001)

• Location: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
• Margin of loss: 171 runs

New Zealand vs England (2023)

• Location: Wellington
• Margin of loss: 1 run

A recent example of the follow-on rule in cricket occurred during the third Test match between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on December 17, 2024.

In this match, Australia scored an impressive 445 runs in their first innings. India were under considerable pressure and needed to score 246 runs to avoid being asked to follow suit. At one point they struggled, scoring 51 runs for 4 wickets, highlighting their precarious situation.

Should India fail to achieve the target, Australia could force overtime and require India to bat again immediately without rest, which would have significantly affected India’s chances of winning or drawing the match.

However, India successfully avoided injury in the third Test match against Australia at the Gabba on December 17, 2024 by amassing a total of 246 runs in their first innings.

Under considerable pressure, India were at 167 for 6 at one point and needed 79 more runs to avoid defeat. Ravindra Jadeja played a crucial role with 41 runs while Nitish Kumar Reddy also contributed.

Despite interruptions due to rain adding to the tension, the pair managed to stabilize the innings. Ultimately, India’s ability to exceed the follow-up target was crucial to maintaining their chances in the game.

Also read| India vs Australia 3rd Test: India Match Time, 11 Match Schedule, Pitch Report, Weather Forecast, Live Streaming from The Gabba