Laws Of Cricket
Twelfth Laws of Cricket
The Twelfth Laws of Cricket outline the various ways in which a batsman can be dismissed, focusing on actions by the fielding side or the batsman's involvement in their own dismissal. Let's explore each aspect along with examples:
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.
Handled the 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 fielding side's consent, 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. The fielding side appeals, and the batsman is given out handled the ball.
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.
Understanding the Twelfth Laws of Cricket helps players, umpires, and spectators 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.
