Over rate is a measurement of how many overs a bowling team completes per hour during a match. Umpires monitor this closely to ensure the game stays on schedule and provides a fair experience for the fans and the opposing team. Example: The captain was fined a portion of his match fee because his team’s over rate was too slow during the afternoon session.
Pro-Tip: Maintaining a fast over rate is vital because teams can be penalized with run deductions or even a ban for the captain if they consistently fall behind. Therefore, bowlers often rush back to their starting marks to keep the game moving quickly and avoid these harsh official penalties.