When is a batter out obstructing the field?
A · Advanced · How does a batter get out? · 2 of 20A batter is out obstructing the field when they deliberately get in the way of the fielding side, by word or action, while the ball is in play. That includes knocking the ball away with a hand not holding the bat, or throwing the bat at the ball. Accidental contact, or moving to avoid injury, is not out.
How it works
- Either batter can be out this way, the striker or the non-striker.
- It must be deliberate ("wilful"). An accident is not out.
- It includes deliberately hitting the ball with a hand not holding the bat, at any point while receiving the ball.
- It includes throwing or dropping the bat on purpose to hit the ball or to avoid being out.
- It includes returning the ball to a fielder with the bat or body without the fielder's agreement.
- It applies even off a no-ball. The bowler does not get the wicket.
- Runs completed before the obstruction count, unless the obstruction stopped a catch. Then no runs count, and the fielding captain chooses which batter faces the next ball.
Tricky cases
Is it out if the batter changes direction while running and the throw hits them?
It depends on whether the umpire judges it deliberate. Running into the line of the throw on purpose is out. Being hit while running normally is not.
Is it out if the batter picks up the ball and hands it to a fielder?
Out, if the fielder did not agree. Ask first.
Is it out if the batter shouts to put off a fielder taking a catch?
Out. Distraction by word counts, and stopping a catch means no runs count either.
Is it out if the batter blocks the ball with their hand to protect their face?
Not out. Acting to avoid injury is allowed.
Is "handled the ball" still a separate dismissal?
No. Since the 2017 Laws, it is part of obstructing the field.
Why the rule exists
Fielders must be able to field without being blocked or put off. Without this rule, batters could protect themselves by getting in the way.
Where it differs
Nothing. The same in the Laws and in the ICC men's playing conditions.
From the rule book
MCC Laws of Cricket, Laws 37.1 to 37.6, 4th Edition, in force from 1 October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: MCC Laws of Cricket (PDF).