Summary
A batsman is out if they willfully obstruct or distract the fielding side by word or action. Since 2017, 'Handled the ball' was merged into this dismissal.
Full Explanation
Obstructing the field covers any deliberate act by a batsman to impede the fielding side. Since 2017, it also incorporates what was previously the separate dismissal of 'Handled the ball'.
A batsman can be given out for: - Deliberately blocking a fielder from catching the ball - Deliberately changing their running line to obstruct a throw at the stumps - Deliberately handling the ball without the consent of the fielding side - Using words to distract the fielding side
The key word is 'deliberate' — accidental obstruction is not out. The umpire must be satisfied that the action was willful.
Notable instances include Inzamam-ul-Haq being given out handled ball against India in 2006 and Ben Stokes being given out obstructing the field in the 2023 Ashes.
Key Points
- •'Handled the ball' merged into this dismissal since 2017
- •Must be a deliberate/willful act
- •Covers physical obstruction and verbal distraction
- •Either batsman can be dismissed (striker or non-striker)
- •Accidental obstruction is not out
Notable Controversies
- •Inzamam-ul-Haq out handled ball vs India, 2006
- •Ben Stokes out obstructing the field, 2023 Ashes
- •Michael Vaughan out handled the ball vs India, 2001
Related Rules
Timed Out
An incoming batsman must be ready to face or for their partner to face within 2 minutes of the fall of the previous wicket. Failure results in being dismissed 'Timed Out'.
Hit Wicket
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.