Cricket is a game rich in tradition and governed by detailed laws. One of the most fascinating aspects is the variety of ways a batter can be dismissed. While some are common, like being bowled or caught, others are rare and even controversial. According to the Laws of Cricket maintained by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), there are 13 recognized ways a batter can be out.
1. Bowled
If the ball is bowled and hits the stumps, dislodging the bails, the batter is out – no matter if the ball touches their bat or body first.
2. Caught
A batter is out caught if a fielder catches the ball on the full (before it touches the ground) after the batter hits it with their bat or glove holding the bat.
3. Leg Before Wicket (LBW)
If a batter is hit on the pad in front of the stumps and, in the umpire's judgment, the ball would have hit the stumps, they can be given out LBW.
4. Run Out
A batter is run out if a fielder hits the stumps with the ball while they are outside the crease attempting a run.
5. Stumped
When a batter steps out of the crease and misses the ball, the wicketkeeper can dislodge the bails to get them stumped.
6. Hit Wicket
A batter is out hit wicket if they accidentally hit the stumps with their bat or body while playing a shot or setting off for a run.
7. Handled the Ball
Previously a separate dismissal, this is now included under “Obstructing the Field” if a batter deliberately handles the ball without the fielding side's consent.
8. Obstructing the Field
If a batter intentionally obstructs a fielder by word or action, they can be given out.
9. Hit the Ball Twice
A batter is out if they hit the ball twice intentionally (except to protect the stumps).
10. Timed Out
If a new batter does not take strike within three minutes of the previous dismissal, they can be given out “timed out.”
11. Retired Out
If a batter retires during their innings for reasons not related to injury and does not return with the umpire’s consent, they are considered “retired out.”
12. Double Hit
Now considered under “Hit the Ball Twice,” this rare dismissal refers to intentionally striking the ball again after the initial contact.
13. Mankad (Run Out at the Non-Striker’s End)
When a bowler runs out the non-striker for backing up too far before delivery. Though controversial, it is a legal dismissal under run out.
⚠️ Rare But Real!
Dismissals like “Obstructing the Field” or “Timed Out” are extremely rare but have occurred in international cricket, adding to the sport's rich history.
🏏 Final Thoughts
Understanding how a batter can be dismissed helps fans appreciate the strategic depth of cricket. Whether you're new to the game or a lifelong fan, knowing these 13 methods brings you closer to the heartbeat of the sport.
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