`
Cricket, a sport steeped in tradition and complex rules, often throws up intriguing scenarios. One such situation is: What Happens If Batsman Hits The Ball Twice? This seemingly simple question has a nuanced answer rooted in the Laws of Cricket, and understanding it is crucial for both players and fans to fully appreciate the game.
The Double Hit Rule Unveiled
So, what exactly constitutes hitting the ball twice, and what are the consequences? Law 34 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, specifically addresses this scenario. In essence, a batsman is not allowed to intentionally hit the ball twice with their bat or body while the ball is in play. The core principle is to prevent the batsman from unfairly manipulating the ball’s trajectory for their own advantage. There are some exceptions. For clarity, let’s break down the key aspects of this law:
- Intent is Key: The rule focuses on intentional double hits. An accidental double touch, particularly when trying to protect the wicket, is often treated differently (more on that later).
- Protecting the Wicket: A batsman is allowed to use their bat or any part of their body to prevent the ball from hitting the stumps. This is a crucial exception. However, even in this case, the action must be solely for protecting the wicket and not for scoring runs.
- No Runs Scored: Even if the double hit is deemed legal (i.e., solely for protecting the wicket), no runs can be scored from that particular instance.
To illustrate the application of this rule further, imagine a scenario where a batsman edges the ball onto their pad, and then, in an attempt to prevent the ball from rolling onto the stumps, they instinctively hit it away with their bat. This would be considered legal, assuming the umpire is satisfied that the sole intention was to protect the wicket. Conversely, if a batsman hits the ball, and then, seeing it going towards a fielder, deliberately hits it again to prevent a catch, they would be deemed out “Hit the ball twice.” The table below demonstrates some scenarios:
| Scenario | Intentional? | Protecting Wicket? | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batsman hits the ball, then deliberately hits it again away from a fielder. | Yes | No | Out “Hit the ball twice” |
| Batsman edges the ball onto their pad, then instinctively hits it to protect the wicket. | No (Instinctive) | Yes | Not Out (no runs scored) |
| Batsman hits the ball, then deliberately hits it towards the boundary for runs. | Yes | No | Out “Hit the ball twice” |
It’s important to note that the umpire’s judgment plays a significant role in these situations. The umpire needs to assess the batsman’s intent and the circumstances surrounding the double hit. It is a complex decision, and umpires often have to make these calls in a split second.
For a comprehensive understanding of this rule and other Laws of Cricket, you should consult the official MCC Laws of Cricket resource which details every single Laws of Cricket!