Each scoring stroke is represented by a coloured line, typically colour-coded by the number of runs from the stroke. The Spider Graph is a more detailed version of the traditional Wagon Wheel graphic; some commentators use the two terms interchangeably, while others use Wagon Wheel only for the less-detailed version. Spin bowling
a style of bowling in which a spin bowler ("spinner") attempts to deceive the batsman by imparting spin on the ball using either their fingers or their wrist. Spin bowling is most effective when the ball is travelling relatively slowly, and so most spinners bowl at a pace between 40 and 55 mph. Spirit of cricket (or spirit of the game)
A nebulous concept of good conduct, encompassing fair play, sportsmanship, mutual respect and acceptance of the umpires decisions. Considered an integral part of the sport. Since 2000 a preamble to the Laws of cricket instructs all participants to act within the spirit of cricket. Splice
the joint between the handle and the blade of a bat; the weakest part of the bat. If the ball hits the splice it is likely to dolly up for an easy catch. Square
1.  of a position on the field, perpendicular to the line of the pitch; the opposite of fine. 2.  the area in the middle of the ground where the pitches are prepared. 3.  an imaginary line extending the crease to the boundary on the leg side; it is illegal to have more than two fielders behind square.
Dead bat
A defensive shot with the bat held in a loose grip and/or angled towards the ground. If the ball strikes the bat it loses momentum and falls quickly to the ground. Used to reduce the chance of being caught off an edge. Dead rubber
A match played in a series after one side has gained an unassailable lead, e.g. has already won 3 matches in a 5-match series, or in a tournament if both teams have already qualified (or failed to qualify) for the subsequent rounds. The term is used disparagingly to imply that the match is of lesser importance, but some regard the concept as outdated. Death bowler
A bowler who specialises in delivering the death overs at the end of a limited overs match. Because batsmen usually play very aggressively in this period, a death bowler must be particularly skilled at variations which are difficult to score from and/or unexpected by the batsman, such as yorkers and slower balls. Death overs
(or slog overs)
The final few overs of an innings in a limited overs match. Because only runs matter in determining the result, a batting side with wickets in hand will bat very aggressively in this period, seeking to hit every delivery for a boundary, even if it risks a dismissal. Typically the batting strike rate is highest in this period, and the bowlers economy is poorest. Death rattle
The sound of the ball breaking the wicket when a batsman is out bowled. Debenture
a certificate of loan agreement, used by some professional clubs to raise funding.