Walking Cricket Rules Explained

Like every walking sport, Walking Cricket doesn’t have one single official rulebook — clubs across the UK have each adapted standard cricket in broadly similar ways, with some local variation in exact scoring and format. This guide covers the core principles shared by most Walking Cricket sessions.

The core principle: no running

Running is replaced with walking throughout — between the wickets when batting, and when moving to field the ball. This is the defining adaptation that makes the sport accessible to players who can no longer manage the sprints of full-pace cricket, while keeping the skills of the game fully intact.

What happens if a player runs?

Most clubs handle running infringements with a straightforward, low-key approach rather than harsh enforcement. A first instance is typically met with a verbal reminder from the umpire or session organiser, since accidental quick steps happen naturally in the flow of play. Persistent or deliberate running usually results in a scoring penalty for the batting pair — commonly a small points deduction rather than an outright dismissal. Because most Walking Cricket is recreational and social rather than competitive, the general emphasis is on keeping the game enjoyable and fair for everyone rather than strict, formal officiating.

Format and team sizes

Most Walking Cricket is played with teams of 6 or 8 players, batting in pairs. Each pair typically bats for a fixed number of overs regardless of how many times they’re dismissed, keeping the game moving and ensuring everyone gets a fair turn at the crease. Matches are usually shorter than full-format cricket — often an hour or two in total — and can be played indoors or outdoors depending on the venue.

Bowling and equipment

Bowlers generally bowl underarm or at a reduced pace, and a softer ball (such as a wind ball or tennis ball) is commonly used instead of a standard hard cricket ball, reducing injury risk. No protective equipment is typically required. Basic kit — a set of stumps and a couple of bats — is all most sessions need.

Scoring and dismissals

Scoring generally follows standard cricket principles, adapted for the walking format — some clubs use a running total, while others use a fixed-points system where dismissals deduct from an overall score rather than ending an innings outright. The common dismissal methods from full cricket (bowled, caught, stumped, run out, hit wicket) typically apply, though some clubs remove LBW to simplify decision-making for volunteer umpires. As always, check the exact scoring system with your local session, since this is one of the areas where clubs vary most.

Where rules differ between clubs

Because Walking Cricket has grown from many different community and county cricket board initiatives independently, exact scoring systems, over counts, and dismissal rules can all vary from one club to the next. Always check with your specific session before your first game.

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Ready to try it for yourself? Find a Walking Cricket session near you and check their specific rules when you arrive. Find Walking Cricket Near You

FAQ

Is there an official Walking Cricket rulebook?

Not a single official one — Walking Cricket has grown through many independent community and county cricket board initiatives, each developing broadly similar adaptations around the same time. The core principle (no running, replaced with walking between wickets and when fielding) is consistent everywhere, but exact scoring systems and dismissal rules can vary meaningfully from club to club, so it’s always worth checking with your specific session before your first game.

Can you still be bowled, caught, or stumped in Walking Cricket?

Yes — the common dismissal methods from full cricket generally still apply, including bowled, caught, stumped, run out, and hit wicket. Some clubs simplify things by removing LBW to make decision-making easier for volunteer umpires, but the fundamentals of getting out remain recognisably cricket.

What ball is used in Walking Cricket?

Most sessions use a softer ball, such as a wind ball or tennis ball, rather than a standard hard cricket ball. This reduces injury risk and makes the game more comfortable for players of all experience levels, particularly beginners who might otherwise be nervous about facing a hard ball at pace.

How long does a Walking Cricket match last?

Matches are generally shorter than full-format cricket, often running to an hour or two in total depending on the club and the number of players. Each batting pair typically faces a fixed number of overs regardless of how many times they’re dismissed, which keeps the game moving and ensures everyone gets a fair turn at the crease.

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Last updated: August 2026 — This guide draws on guidance from national governing bodies where available, established club practices from across our directory, and real feedback from the walking sports community. Walking Sports Hub has been connecting players for over 5 years, with 3,500+ sessions and clubs listed across 8 walking sports. Clubs and players are welcome to submit updates or corrections. Learn more about Walking Sports Hub

Walking Cricket – Rules

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