11 Types of Cricket Dismissals: Your Go-To Guide

Cricket isn’t just about big hits and spectacular catches; it’s also about mastering the art of dismissals. Understanding the types of cricket dismissals can give you deeper insights into the game, whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out. This guide breaks down the 11 ways a batter can get out, using simple, engaging language.

What Is a Dismissal in Cricket?

A dismissal, or 'out,' is when the batter's innings comes to an end. The fielding team aims to get the batters out to prevent them from scoring runs. Each type of dismissal follows specific rules, and knowing these can change how you view a match.

1. Bowled

Definition: When the ball is delivered by the bowler and hits the stumps, dislodging the bails.

Details: A bowled dismissal is one of the most exciting moments in cricket. It’s proof of the bowler’s precision and the batter’s misjudgment. This can happen if the batter completely misses the ball or if it glances off the edge of their bat onto the stumps.

Fun Fact: In professional cricket, a fast bowler's average speed is around 145 km/h, making it difficult for batters to react in time.

2. Caught

Definition: When the batter hits the ball with their bat or glove, and a fielder catches it before it touches the ground.

Types:

• Caught Behind: Caught by the wicketkeeper.
• Slip Catch: Caught by a fielder in the slip cordon.

Why It’s Important: Catches can be game-changers, requiring sharp reflexes and strategic field placement.

3. Leg Before Wicket (LBW)

Definition: When the ball strikes the batter’s leg or pad, and it would have hit the stumps if not for the obstruction.

Key Points:

• The ball must pitch in line with the stumps or on the off side.
• Umpires use a Decision Review System (DRS) to verify close LBW calls.

Tip: Batters must always be aware of where their leg is to avoid giving the fielding team an easy wicket.

4. Run Out

Definition: When a fielder throws the ball to the stumps while the batters are attempting a run, and the ball hits the stumps before the batter reaches the crease.

Details:

• Run outs can happen at either end of the pitch.
• This dismissal tests both the fielding team's coordination and the batters' running speed.

Stat Alert: According to cricket statistics, run outs account for about 6-8% of total dismissals in ODI matches.

5. Stumped

Definition: When the wicketkeeper uses the ball to remove the bails while the batter is out of their crease and not attempting a run.

How It Happens:

• Most common against spinners.
• The batter steps out to hit the ball, but misses, and the wicketkeeper capitalizes.

Trivia: Legendary wicketkeeper MS Dhoni is famous for his lightning-fast stumpings.

6. Hit Wicket

Definition: When the batter accidentally hits the stumps with their bat or body while playing a shot or setting off for a run.

Common Scenarios:

• Batters stepping too far back in their crease.
• Losing balance while facing a bouncer.

Fact: Hit wicket is one of the rarer types of outs in cricket, accounting for less than 1% of total dismissals in professional games.

7. Handled the Ball

Definition: When the batter deliberately uses their hand to touch the ball without the fielder's permission.

Clarification:

• This is different from a batter using their hand to avoid injury.
• It's an unusual dismissal and happens only occasionally.

Note: In 2017, the rule was updated, and this dismissal was merged under "Obstructing the Field."

8. Obstructing the Field

Definition: When a batter intentionally blocks or distracts a fielder trying to catch or field the ball.

Example:

• A batter using their body to stop a direct throw aimed at the stumps.

Famous Case: In 2015, Ben Stokes was controversially given out for obstructing the field in an ODI match against Australia.

9. Hit the Ball Twice

Definition: When the batter strikes the ball twice, except when preventing it from hitting the stumps for defensive reasons.

Explanation:

• Usually, this dismissal is accidental.
• The first hit must be intentional, and the second hit cannot be to score runs.

Stat Insight: This is one of the rarest dismissals in cricket history.

10. Timed Out

Definition: When a new batter takes more than the allotted time (three minutes in most formats) to arrive at the crease.

Interesting Fact: Although extremely rare, this rule ensures that batters are ready and the game flows smoothly.

Example: There have been a few instances in first-class cricket, but it hasn’t yet happened in an international match.

11. Retired Out

Definition: When a batter voluntarily leaves the field without a valid injury and does not return to complete their innings.

Details:

• Not considered an out unless declared by the umpire.
• Rarely seen, as most retirements occur due to injury or a team's strategic move.

Noteworthy Moment: In 2001, Sri Lankan batter Marvan Atapattu retired out intentionally during a Test match to give other players a chance.

Why Understanding Dismissals Matters

Knowing these types of outs in cricket adds depth to your appreciation of the game. Whether you're watching a nail-biting ODI or playing a weekend match, understanding dismissals helps you spot strategies and better predict outcomes.

FAQs

What are the most common types of cricket dismissals?
Caught and bowled are the most frequent dismissals in cricket.

How does LBW work in cricket?
LBW occurs when the ball hits the batter's leg or pad, blocking a delivery that would have struck the stumps.

Who decides if a batter is out LBW?
The on-field umpire makes the call, often supported by DRS if reviewed.

What is the rarest type of dismissal in cricket?
Timed out and hit the ball twice are among the rarest dismissals in cricket.

Can a batter be out if they handle the ball?
Yes, but this type of dismissal is now categorized under "obstructing the field."