The death overs (overs 16-20) in T20 cricket are where matches are won and lost. A bowler who excels in these overs is worth their weight in gold.
Key Death Overs Statistics
- Average runs in overs 16-20: 55-65 runs
- Most common scoring shot: Pace on (63% of runs)
- Dot ball percentage in death: 35% (good bowlers)
- Boundary percentage: 40% (average)
Essential Skills
1. The Yorker
The most effective delivery in death overs. A good yorker forces the batsman to play, limiting scoring options. Practice: 20 yorkers per net session.
2. Slow Bouncer
Against aggressive batsmen, a well-disguised slow bouncer can wreck plans. The key is in the delivery stride - look the same as a regular ball.
3. Slower Ball
The stock delivery for death overs. Vary the seam position to create confusion. Best delivered from wide of the crease to drift it in.
Strategic Options
| Scenario | Recommended Delivery |
|---|---|
| Need 2 runs per ball | Yorker, back of length |
| Need 10+ runs an over | Slower ball, bouncer |
| Last over | Alternate yorker and slower ball |
| Power hitter batting | Wide yorker, change angles |
Fantasy Value
Bowlers who bowl in death overs are gold in Dream11:
- High economy = High points
- Wickets in death = Even higher points
- Target bowlers with economy under 8 in death