Cricket, a sport steeped in tradition and governed by intricate rules, offers a plethora of ways for a batsman to be dismissed. While fans are well-acquainted with common dismissals like bowled, caught, or leg before wicket (LBW), the game also presents a set of rare and unusual dismissals that add an element of surprise and intrigue. These uncommon modes of getting out not only test the players’ awareness and adherence to the laws but also provide memorable moments that are etched in cricketing folklore.
Understanding the Rare Modes of Dismissal in Cricket
Beyond the conventional methods, cricket’s laws define several rare dismissals that, although infrequent, have occurred in both international and domestic matches. Let’s delve into these unusual dismissals:
1. Handled the Ball
Historically, a batsman could be given out for handling the ball without the consent of a fielder. This typically occurred when a batsman used their hand to return the ball to a fielder or to prevent it from hitting the stumps. Notably, England’s Graham Gooch was dismissed in this manner during a Test match against Australia in 1993. However, in 2017, the International Cricket Council (ICC) amended the laws, incorporating “handled the ball” into the “obstructing the field” category.
2. Obstructing the Field
A batsman is deemed out for obstructing the field if they deliberately interfere with a fielder’s attempt to field the ball. This includes actions like using the bat or body to deflect a throw aimed at the stumps. A notable instance occurred in 1987 when Pakistan’s Rameez Raja was given out for obstructing the field during an ODI against England.
3. Hit the Ball Twice
This rare dismissal happens when a batsman intentionally strikes the ball twice, except when protecting their wicket. The first recorded instance was in 1786 when England’s Thomas White was dismissed for hitting the ball twice. In modern cricket, such dismissals are exceedingly uncommon.
4. Timed Out
A batsman must be ready to face the next delivery within three minutes of the previous batsman’s dismissal. Failure to do so results in a “timed out” dismissal. Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews became the first player in international cricket to be dismissed in this manner during a World Cup match against Bangladesh in 2023.
5. Hit Wicket
A batsman is out “hit wicket” if, after the bowler has entered their delivery stride and while the ball is in play, their wicket is put down either by the striker’s bat or by their person. This can occur if a batsman accidentally dislodges the bails with their bat or body while playing a shot or setting off for a run. A memorable instance is when England’s Kevin Pietersen was dismissed hit wicket during a Test match against the West Indies in 2007.
6. Retired Out
Unlike “retired hurt,” where a batsman leaves the field due to injury, “retired out” occurs when a batsman voluntarily leaves the field without the umpire’s permission and without a valid reason. This is considered a dismissal. In 2001, Sri Lankan batsmen Marvan Atapattu and Mahela Jayawardene both retired out in a Test match against Bangladesh to allow other players to gain experience.
Notable Instances of Unusual Dismissals
Throughout cricket’s rich history, there have been several notable instances of these rare dismissals:
• Handled the Ball: In 1979, Australia’s Andrew Hilditch became the first non-striker to be given out handled the ball when he picked up the ball and returned it to a bowler during a Test match against Pakistan.
• Obstructing the Field: In 2015, England’s Ben Stokes was given out obstructing the field in an ODI against Australia when he used his hand to stop a throw from hitting the stumps.
• Hit the Ball Twice: In 2002, India’s Hemang Badani was dismissed for hitting the ball twice during an ODI against the West Indies.
• Timed Out: Apart from Angelo Mathews’ dismissal in 2023, there have been instances in domestic cricket where batsmen have been timed out due to delays in reaching the crease.
• Hit Wicket: In 2017, West Indies’ Sunil Ambris was dismissed hit wicket on his debut Test match against New Zealand, becoming the first player to be out hit wicket on debut.
• Retired Out: Beyond the Sri Lankan instance in 2001, there have been few occurrences of batsmen retiring out, primarily in friendly or practice matches.
The Impact and Controversies Surrounding Unusual Dismissals
Unusual dismissals often lead to debates and discussions regarding the spirit of the game and the interpretation of cricketing laws. For instance, “Mankading,” named after Indian bowler Vinoo Mankad, who ran out a non-striker backing up too far, has been a topic of contention, with opinions divided on its fairness.
Similarly, dismissals like obstructing the field or handled the ball test the ethical boundaries of players, as they often involve split-second decisions that can be interpreted in various ways. The cricketing community continues to grapple with these nuances, striving to balance the letter of the law with the spirit of the game.
Conclusion
While rare, these unusual dismissals add a layer of complexity and intrigue to cricket, reminding players and fans alike of the game’s rich tapestry of rules and the importance of sportsmanship. They serve as valuable lessons in awareness, discipline, and respect for the game’s laws, ensuring that cricket remains a sport that challenges both the body and the mind.