Laws Of Cricket
Seventh Laws of Cricket
The Seventh Laws of Cricket pertain to the modes of dismissal that involve actions by the fielding side or the conditions of the pitch. Let's explore each aspect along with examples:
Timed Out
A batsman can be given out timed out if they fail to take their position at the crease within three minutes of the previous batsman's dismissal.
Example: After a batsman is dismissed, the next batsman fails to arrive at the crease within the stipulated three-minute period. As a result, they are given out timed out.
Hit Wicket
A batsman is given out hit wicket if, after the bowler has entered their delivery stride and while the ball is in play, the batsman disturbs the stumps with any part of their body or their bat.
Example: The batsman, in the process of playing a shot, accidentally steps back and dislodges the bails with their foot. As the batsman has disturbed the stumps with their body, they are given out hit wicket.
Handled Ball
A batsman can be given out handled the ball if they deliberately touch the ball with a hand not holding the bat, without the consent of the fielding side, to prevent it from being caught or hitting the stumps.
Example: The batsman, after playing a shot, realizes the ball is about to be caught by a fielder positioned close by. In an attempt to prevent the catch, they use their hand to stop the ball. As this action was not accidental and aimed at preventing a dismissal, the batsman is given out handled the ball.
Obstructing the Field
A batsman is given out obstructing the field if they willfully obstruct the fielding side by word or action, including preventing a run-out or stopping the ball from reaching a fielder.
Example: The batsman, after playing a shot, intentionally runs down the pitch and blocks the fielder's attempt to gather the ball and throw it to the stumps. As the obstruction was deliberate and impeded a potential run-out, the batsman is given out obstructing the field.
Understanding the Seventh Laws of Cricket helps players and officials recognize and interpret instances where a batsman's actions or conditions on the pitch result in their dismissal. Adherence to these regulations ensures fair play and integrity on the cricket field.
