Laws of Cricket 1980 Code - Law 23
1. The Ball Becomes Dead
When:
a. It is finally settled in the hands of the wicket-keeper or the bowler.
b. It reaches or pitches over the boundary.
c. A batsman is out.
d. Whether played or not, it lodges in the clothing or equipment of a batsman or the clothing of an umpire.
e. A ball lodges in a protective helmet worn by a member of the fielding side.
f. A penalty is awarded under Law 20 (Lost Ball) or Law 41.1 (Fielding the Ball).
g. The umpire calls "over" or "time".
2. Either Umpire Shall Call and Signal "Dead Ball"
When:
a. He intervenes in a case of unfair play.
b. A serious injury to a player or umpire occurs.
c. He is satisfied that, for an adequate reason, the striker is not ready to receive the ball and makes no attempt to play it.
d. The bowler drops the ball accidentally before delivery, or the ball does not leave his hand for any reason.
e. One or both bails fall from the striker's wicket before he receives delivery.
f. He leaves his normal position for consultation.
g. He is required to do so under Law 26.3 (Disallowance of Leg-Byes).
3. The Ball Ceases to be Dead
When:
a. The bowler starts his run-up or bowling action.
4. The Ball is Not Dead
When:
a. It strikes an umpire (unless it lodges in his dress).
b. The wicket is broken or struck down (unless a batsman is out thereby).
c. An unsuccessful appeal is made.
d. The wicket is broken accidentally either by the bowler during his delivery or by a batsman in running.
e. The umpire has called "no ball" or "wide".
Notes
1. Ball Finally Settled
Whether the ball is finally settled or not - see 1(a) above - must be a question for the umpires alone to decide.
2. Action on Call of "Dead Ball"
a. If "dead ball" is called prior to the striker receiving a delivery the bowler shall be allowed an additional ball.
b. If "dead ball" is called after the striker receives a delivery the bowler shall not be allowed an additional ball, unless a "no-ball" or "wide" has been called.
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