School Cricket: Calling the Run: Yes, No, Wait

Both cricket batters must talk to each other to decide every run using three words: yes, no and wait. Students practice who calls in each case, and in the game only well-called runs count, which forces them to speak up and decide fast.

How to play

1. Explain the protocol: if the ball goes in front of the striker, the striker calls; if it goes behind, the non-striker calls; the words are “yes,” “no” and “wait,” and “wait” is always followed by “yes” or “no” (3 min).
2. In batting pairs, the teacher or a classmate throws the ball by hand into different areas and the pair calls and runs; a third student fields and returns the ball to the wicket (5 min).
3. Game between two teams: a run counts only if the call was correct and on time, as judged by the umpire at the bowler's end; a run out costs three runs instead of eliminating the batter (9 min).
4. The umpire and scorekeeper report how many runs were canceled for bad calls, and each pair suggests how to improve its communication (3 min).

Rules

• Each batter runs on their own side of the central strip, never crossing in the middle.
• Carry the bat while running and ground it behind the line; never throw it.
• Fielders return the ball to the wicket underhand, never toward a runner.
• Always use a foam ball.

Variations

Adaptations

• Hearing impairment: the pair agrees on visible gestures (arm up, open hand, fist) for each word.
• Limited mobility: is the batter who calls, and a partner runs for them.
• Autism: practices the protocol beforehand with the same partner, and the teacher reminds them who calls for each area.

Learning goals

• Communicate effectively with a partner to decide on a run.
• Apply calling responsibility based on the direction of the ball.
• Umpire runs while paying attention to communication between batters.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cricket bats: 4
• foam balls: 6
• poles: 12
• cones: 16
• pinnies: 14
• whistles: 2

Teacher tip

This is as much a communication task as a cricket one: assess how loud and clear the calls are. Separate the two running lanes with a line of cones to prevent collisions.

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