Rounders

Rounders is a bat-and-ball team sport played between two opposing sides. Players on one team bat to hit a ball and run around four bases to score, while players on the other team field and try to prevent runs. The field is laid out with four bases arranged roughly in a diamond shape, and the equipment includes a small rounded bat and a ball smaller and softer than a baseball. Rounders is especially associated with the United Kingdom and Ireland, where it has a long-standing presence in schools, clubs, and amateur competitions.

Play begins with one team batting while the other fields. The pitcher delivers underarm, and the batter attempts to hit the ball and reach first base, then continue to second and third bases before returning home to score. Runners must advance in order around the bases; a batter or runner can be out by several means, such as a caught ball before it touches the ground or a runner being touched by the ball while not on a base, or other outs defined by the rule set. When three outs are recorded, the teams switch roles. A game consists of a set number of innings and the team with the higher number of runs wins.

Historically, rounders dates back to at least the 18th century and played a role in the development of baseball. Today, it remains popular in schools and local clubs, with national governing bodies in countries such as England and Ireland organizing competitions and coaching. The sport emphasizes participation, skill, and teamwork rather than professional play.