When is a batter run out?
B · Beginner · How does a batter get out? · 10 of 14How it works
- "Behind the line" means behind it. A bat resting on the line is out of the ground.
- The bat counts only if the batter is holding it.
- The wicket is broken when a bail comes off the stumps, or a stump comes out of the ground.
- Either batter can be run out, whether or not they are trying to run. This applies even off a no-ball.
- The batter who is out is the one nearest the broken wicket's end.
- Completed runs count. The run they were attempting does not.
Tricky cases
Is it out if the bat is on the crease line?
Out. Some part of the bat or body must be grounded behind the line.
Is it out if the bat bounces up as the bails come off?
Not out, if the batter had already grounded their bat or body behind the line while running or diving in. A bounce after that does not count against them.
Is the non-striker out if the batter's shot hits the stumps at the bowler's end?
Not out, unless a fielder, usually the bowler, touched the ball on the way.
Can the bowler run out the non-striker before bowling?
Yes, if the non-striker has left the crease early, until the bowler's arm reaches the top of the bowling action. After that moment it is too late.
Does that ball count in the over?
No. When the non-striker is run out before the ball is bowled, the ball does not count as one of the over.
Is it out if the batter leaves the crease to avoid being hit?
Not out, if they had been in their ground and left it only to avoid injury.
Do the runs count after a run out?
Yes, the completed ones. The run being attempted does not count.
Can a batter be run out off a no-ball?
Yes. Run out is one of the few ways a batter can be out off a no-ball.
Why the rule exists
Running is how most runs are scored, and the run out is the risk that balances it: a run is safe only once the batter has reached the other end.
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 38.1 to 38.5, 30.1, 29.1 to 29.2 and 7.3, 4th Edition, in force from 1 October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: MCC Laws of Cricket (PDF).