baulk line

/bɔːk laɪn/
noun
  1. In sports such as snooker, billiards, or pool, the line across the table behind which the cue ball is placed for the break shot.
    • She carefully aimed her shot from just behind the baulk-line.
    • The player placed the cue ball behind the baulk-line to start the game.
    • If the cue ball crosses the baulk-line after the break, it's a foul.
  2. In cricket, the line on the pitch marking the bowler's crease, from which the bowler delivers the ball.
    • The bowler's foot landed just behind the baulk-line, so the umpire called a no-ball.
    • The baulk-line is an important reference point for bowlers to avoid fouls.
    • He practiced his run-up to make sure he didn't overstep the baulk-line.
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