What is the maximum possible number of runs that can be scored off a single ball?


IPL 2023 Winner

The maximum possible number of runs that can be scored off a single legal delivery in cricket depends on various rare scenarios. Here’s how it could happen:

1. Six Runs (6) – The Most Common Maximum

If a batsman hits the ball over the boundary without touching the ground, they score 6 runs.

2. Six + No-Ball (7 Runs)

If the bowler delivers a no-ball and the batsman hits a six, they get 6 runs + 1 extra for the no-ball = 7 runs.

3. Six + No-Ball + Overthrows

If the ball crosses the boundary due to an overthrow after the batsmen have already run some runs, more runs can be added. For example:

  • 6 (six) + 1 (no-ball) + 4 (overthrows) = 11 runs.

4. Running Extra Runs (Very Rare but Possible)

If the batsmen keep running due to misfields or overthrows, they could score even more. The highest recorded running runs off a single ball in international cricket is 8 runs (by Misbah-ul-Haq in 2007).

  • If a similar situation occurs along with a no-ball and a six, the total could exceed 10+ runs.

Theoretically Highest Possible Runs

In an extreme case, if a batsman hits a six off a no-ball, and then runs 5-6 runs due to multiple overthrows, it could total around 12-13 runs or more.

🔹 Realistic Maximum in a Professional Match: Around 7-8 runs.
🔹 Theoretical Maximum (including overthrows and misfields): Could be 10+ runs in extreme cases.