Types of Outs in Cricket: Rules and Examples Explained

Cricket is a game where every ball can change the match. One moment, a batsman is scoring runs, and the next, they're walking back to the pavilion. But how exactly can a batsman get out?

Understanding the types of outs in cricket makes watching the game more exciting. Whether you're a new fan or a seasoned follower, knowing these rules helps you appreciate the sport better.

In this guide, we'll break down all the ways a batsman can be dismissed, from common ones like bowled and caught to rare ones like handled the ball. We'll explain the rules, give real-match examples, and answer your burning questions.

Let’s get started!

1. Bowled – The Most Direct Way to Get Out

When the bowler hits the stumps and the bails fall, the batsman is bowled out. This is the simplest and clearest of all types of outs in cricket.

How Does It Happen?

• The ball must strike the stumps directly.

• Even if the bat edges the ball onto the stumps, it counts.

• No fielder is needed for this dismissal.

Why Is It So Common?

Fast bowlers aim for the stumps with yorkers, while spinners trick batsmen with turn. Legendary bowlers like Wasim Akram and Shane Warne mastered this art.

2. Caught – When Fielders Take the Spotlight

A catch is when a fielder grabs the ball before it bounces after the batsman hits it. This is one of the most frequent types of outs in cricket.

Key Rules for a Fair Catch

• The ball must not touch the ground.

• The fielder must have full control of the ball.

• If the ball hits a helmet first, it’s still out.

Unforgettable Catches in Cricket History

• Jonty Rhodes’ flying run-out (1992 World Cup)

• Kapil Dev’s match-winning catch (1983 World Cup Final)

3. LBW (Leg Before Wicket) – The Most Debated Dismissal

LBW is one of the trickiest types of outs in cricket. It happens when the ball hits the batsman’s leg in front of the stumps.

When Is LBW Given?

• The ball must pitch in line with the stumps.

• It should hit the pad in front of the wicket.

• The umpire must believe it would have hit the stumps.

Why Is LBW Controversial?

Even with DRS (Decision Review System), close calls can split opinions. Some batsmen feel hard done by, while bowlers celebrate.

4. Run Out – A Test of Speed and Awareness

A run out happens when fielders break the stumps before the batsman reaches the crease. This is one of the most thrilling types of outs in cricket.

How to Avoid a Run Out?

• Quick communication between batsmen.

• Sharp running between the wickets.

• Avoiding risky singles under pressure.

Famous Run-Out Moments

• MS Dhoni’s lightning-fast stumpings

• Jasprit Bumrah’s direct hits in crucial matches

5. Stumped – The Wicketkeeper’s Special

When a batsman steps out and the keeper removes the bails, it’s called a stumping. This is common against spinners.

Rules for a Legal Stumping

• The batsman must be outside the crease.

• The keeper must collect the ball cleanly.

• No part of the bat or body should be behind the line.

Best Wicketkeepers in Stumping

• Adam Gilchrist (Australia)

• Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)

6. Hit Wicket – When the Batter Causes Their Own Downfall

A rare but funny dismissal, hit wicket occurs when the batsman accidentally knocks the stumps while playing a shot.

How Does It Happen?

• The bat or body hits the stumps during play.

• Even losing balance and dislodging the bails counts.

Funny Hit Wicket Moments

• Sarfaraz Ahmed (2019) hitting his own stumps while playing a pull shot

7. Retired Out – A Strategic Exit

Unlike other types of outs in cricket, retired out is when a batsman leaves voluntarily, usually for tactical reasons.

When Is It Used?

• In T20s to send a better hitter.

• If a player is injured and can’t continue.

Famous Example

• Ravichandran Ashwin (IPL 2022) became the first to retire out tactically.

Rare Types of Outs in Cricket

While the above are common, cricket has some unusual dismissals:

8. Handled the Ball

• If the batsman touches the ball with their hand without permission.

• Last instance: Mohammad Hafeez (2013)

9. Hit the Ball Twice

• Intentionally hitting the ball again to protect the stumps.

• Rarely seen in modern cricket.

10. Obstructing the Field

• If the batsman blocks fielders deliberately.

• Ben Stokes (2015) was controversially given out this way.

  
  

FAQs About Types of Outs in Cricket

1. What is the rarest way to get out in cricket?

Handled the ball and hit the ball twice are the rarest.

2. Can a batsman be out without the ball hitting the stumps?

Yes, in caught, stumped, and run out, the stumps don’t need to be hit.

3. Why is LBW so hard to judge?

Umpires must predict if the ball would have hit the stumps, leading to close calls.

4. How many total ways can a batsman be out?

There are 11 official ways, but only 7-8 are common.

5. Will a batsman be out if the bails don’t fall?

No, the bails must be completely dislodged for most dismissals.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the types of outs in cricket makes the game more exciting. From stunning catches to fiery yorkers, each dismissal adds drama.

Next time you watch a match, see if you can spot these outs—it’ll make cricket even more fun!