What is Box Cricket? Everything You Need to Know About This Urban Cricket Sensation
What is Box Cricket : If you’re a cricket lover but don’t always find the time or space to play in a full-sized ground, box cricket might just be the perfect solution. This fast-paced, fun, and urban version of the traditional game is growing in popularity across Indian cities like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi. But what exactly is box cricket, and why is it becoming a favorite among working professionals, students, and weekend sports lovers?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what box cricket is, how it is played, the rules, its benefits, and why it’s becoming a go-to recreational sport in India.
What is Box Cricket?
Box Cricket is a shorter and modified version of traditional cricket, played in an enclosed area or turf. Unlike standard cricket grounds, box cricket is played on a smaller pitch — usually indoors or in fenced outdoor spaces with artificial turf. This format is also known as turf cricket, indoor cricket, or cage cricket in some places.
Instead of 11 players per team, box cricket is usually played with 6 to 8 players per side, making it ideal for quick matches and tight schedules.
Dimensions and Setup of a Box Cricket Turf
- Average turf size: 60×30 to 100×50 feet
- Surrounded by netting or walls (no ball goes out of bounds)
- Artificial grass surface (synthetic turf)
- Proper lighting for night matches
- Scoreboards, dugouts, and in some venues, even music and refreshments
Read also: PLR Box Cricket Hyderabad: The Ultimate Box Cricket Destination in the City
Box Cricket Rules (Simplified)
While box cricket follows the basic principles of traditional cricket, the rules are adapted to make the game faster and more fun.
- Teams: Usually 6-8 players per team
- Overs: Common formats include 6, 8 or 10-over matches
- Pitch: Shorter pitch with both ends usable for batting
- Boundaries: No traditional boundary; hitting the nets/walls may count as 1, 2, or 4 runs
- No LBW or complicated field restrictions
- Under-arm bowling allowed (depending on venue)
- Soft cricket balls used to reduce injury risk
Each turf or tournament may have slightly different house rules.
Why is Box Cricket So Popular?
1. Time-Friendly: Matches are short and can be completed in 30-60 minutes.
2. Space-Saving: Doesn’t require large grounds or open spaces.
3. All-Weather Play: Most box cricket venues are indoor or covered, making them rain-proof.
4. Ideal for All Ages: Kids, college students, office groups, and even seniors play it regularly.
5. Fitness and Fun: A great way to socialize, stay active, and unwind after a long day.
Where Can You Play Box Cricket in India?
Major cities now have multiple box cricket turfs available for hourly booking. Hyderabad, for instance, has top venues like:
- PLR Box Cricket
- Masti Turf
- Cric Bees Arena
- 2Free Hit Box Cricket
You can book online or via apps and most venues are open till midnight.
Box Cricket vs Traditional Cricket
| Factor | Box Cricket | Traditional Cricket |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Compact enclosed area | Large ground |
| Team Size | 6-8 players | 11 players |
| Match Duration | 30-60 minutes | 4-6 hours or longer |
| Ball Type | Soft ball | Hard leather ball |
| Boundary | Nets or walls | Field boundaries |
| Suitable For | Fast play, fun, recreation | Professional, league-based cricket |
Is Box Cricket Safe?
Yes! Most box cricket matches are played with soft balls and minimal gear, which reduces the risk of injury. Also, as there are fewer players and the ground is enclosed, it’s easier to control the environment.
Fun Fact
Many corporate companies in India now organize box cricket tournaments as team-building activities because of its easy setup and high energy.
Final Thoughts
Box Cricket is more than just a smaller version of traditional cricket — it’s a lifestyle sport for busy urbanites. Whether you’re playing with friends after work, participating in an inter-college tournament, or just looking to break a sweat on the weekend, box cricket delivers all the excitement of the game in a quick, compact, and thrilling format.
👉 If you want to find box cricket venues in your city, simply choose your city from the “City” categories above or use the search box on the homepage to search your city name.