text: what is 'power play' in cricket?   powerplay is a set of three segment in field placings, replacing the the first 15 overs rule of two close in catchers and two outside the inner circle. first powerplay is mandatory where the fielding team should have only 2 fielders outside the circle and two close in fielders catching. the next two sets are of 5 overs, where the fielding side can take anytime in the match after 10 overs. there is no need for close in fielders.