Run Out in Cricket

A dismissal where a batter fails to reach a crease before the fielding side breaks the stumps at that end.

What is a Run Out?

Unlike most dismissals, a run out doesn't depend on which batter is 'responsible' for the mistake — whoever is short of their ground when the bails come off is the one given out, regardless of whether it was their call or their partner's. It can happen on any run attempt, off a direct hit from the field, or even from backing up too far at the non-striker's end (see: Mankad, a specific and controversial version of a run out).

In play

Tight single, batters cross, the throw comes in flat and hits the stumps before the bat is grounded — a mix-up that could've been a dropped call between the two batters.

More laws terms

• StumpedA dismissal where the wicketkeeper breaks the stumps while the batter is out of their crease, without a run being attempted.
• CaughtA dismissal where a fielder catches the ball on the full after it comes off the bat, before it touches the ground.
• LBWLeg Before Wicket — out when the ball strikes the pad and would have hit the stumps.
• MankadRunning out the non-striker before delivering the ball, when they back up too far.
• 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.