Mankad in Cricket

Running out the non-striker before delivering the ball, when they back up too far.

What is a Mankad?

Named after India's Vinoo Mankad who dismissed Bill Brown this way in 1947. If a non-striker backs up too far out of their crease before the bowler releases the ball, the bowler can remove the bails and appeal. It has been controversial for decades — some called it unsporting, others pointed out it penalises clear cheating. In 2022, the MCC moved the Mankad from the 'unfair play' section to the 'run out' section, ending the debate: it is now a legitimate dismissal.

In play

Non-striker is backing up three metres out of their crease before the ball is bowled. Bowler holds the ball at delivery stride, removes bails at the non-striker's end, appeals. Given out — Mankad.

More laws terms

• DRSDecision Review System — technology-aided review that teams can use to challenge on-field decisions.
• No BallAn illegal delivery — the bowling side is penalised with an extra run and a free hit in limited overs.
• WideA delivery bowled too far from the batter — adds a penalty run and must be rebowled.
• Free HitA penalty delivery after a front-foot no ball where the batter cannot be out (except run-out).
• PowerplayOvers with fielding restrictions — limited fielders outside the 30-yard circle.
• Follow-onWhen the team batting first forces the opposition to bat again immediately after their first innings.