Summary
A batsman is out hit wicket if they knock the bails off their own stumps while playing a shot or setting off for a run.
Full Explanation
Hit wicket occurs when a batsman dislodges the bails from their own stumps during the act of playing a shot or setting off for a first run. This includes being dislodged by the bat, any part of the body, or equipment (helmet, pads, etc.).
The dismissal only applies during the delivery being faced — if a batsman hits their stumps while running between wickets (after completing the first run), it's not hit wicket.
Hit wicket is relatively rare and almost always accidental. It can be frustrating for batsmen as it usually happens when they overbalance playing an aggressive shot.
Key Points
- •Batsman dislodges own stumps while playing a shot or setting off for first run
- •Includes being hit by bat, body, or equipment
- •Only applies during the act of receiving the delivery
- •Relatively rare — about 1-2% of Test dismissals
Notable Controversies
- •Several crucial knocks ended by accidental hit wickets in World Cups and Ashes
Related Rules
Caught Out
A batsman is out caught if a fielder catches the ball on the full after it has touched the bat or glove holding the bat.
Run Out
A batsman is run out if their wicket is put down by the fielding side while they are out of their ground during a run.
Stumping
A batsman is stumped if the wicketkeeper breaks the stumps while the batsman is out of their crease and not attempting a run.