Powerplay overs in T20 cricket explained
In a T20 innings the first six overs are called the powerplay. During this period only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle, the marked oval around the pitch.
Why it helps batters
With so few fielders on the boundary, a shot hit in the air over the inner ring is more likely to find a gap or reach the boundary. Batters can attack with less risk, so teams often score faster here than in the middle overs.
What bowlers try to do
Bowlers look for early wickets, because a team that loses wickets in the powerplay has to slow down and rebuild. Fast bowlers who move the new ball and spinners who turn it sharply are both used, depending on the pitch.
After the powerplay
From the seventh over, up to five fielders may stand outside the circle. Scoring usually slows as fielders move back, and the middle overs become a contest between building partnerships and avoiding wickets.
What to watch for
Check the score at the end of the sixth over and compare it with the totals teams usually reach on that ground. You will quickly see which side has the advantage.