Summary
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.
Full Explanation
A run out occurs when a fielder breaks the stumps while a batsman is outside their crease. Key aspects:
- Either batsman can be run out - The batsman closest to the broken wicket is out (if both are at the same end) - A batsman must have some part of their body or bat grounded behind the crease line - Being in the air at the crease line is NOT safe — you must be grounded - Direct hits (no fielder touches the ball with hands before hitting stumps) count
Since 2022, the Mankad dismissal has been reclassified as a regular run-out, expanding the definition.
Overthrows and run-outs have produced some of cricket's most dramatic moments, including the 2019 World Cup Final's controversial overthrow and the Klusener-Donald run-out that eliminated South Africa in the 1999 World Cup semi-final.
Key Points
- •Wicket must be broken while batsman is out of their ground
- •Batsman must be grounded behind the crease — being airborne is not safe
- •Both batsmen at the same end: the one closest to the broken wicket is out
- •Mankad dismissal now classified as a run-out since 2022
- •Direct hits count even without fielder handling the ball
Notable Controversies
- •Klusener-Donald run-out mix-up, 1999 WC semifinal
- •2019 WC Final overthrow — should it have been 5 runs or 6?
- •Bairstow stumping/run-out at Lord's, 2023 Ashes
Related Rules
Mankad / Run Out at Non-Striker's End
A bowler can run out the non-striker if they leave their crease before the ball is delivered. Previously called 'Mankading', it was reclassified as a standard run-out in 2022.
Overthrow Rules
If a fielder's throw hits the stumps and deflects away, the batting side can score additional runs. The 2019 WC Final exposed confusion about how to count runs when an overthrow goes to the boundary.
Stumping
A batsman is stumped if the wicketkeeper breaks the stumps while the batsman is out of their crease and not attempting a run.