The powerplay in limited-overs cricket restricts where fielders can stand, reducing the number allowed outside the 30-yard circle. In T20, the powerplay is the first 6 overs (two fielders outside the circle maximum). In ODIs, the mandatory powerplay is the first 10 overs. These restrictions significantly favour batting — teams score more freely when fielders are close to the bat. Strong powerplay batting (50+ runs in T20, 60+ in ODIs) with few wickets sets up competitive totals. The batting team can also elect a 5-over powerplay in ODIs.
Key points
- First 6 overs in T20; first 10 in ODI
- Fielding restrictions encourage aggressive batting
- 50+ from T20 powerplay is excellent
- 2+ wickets in T20 powerplay is problematic