Run Out
Also known as: run out, direct hit
A run out occurs when a fielder hits the stumps with the ball while a batter is outside their crease while attempting a run, resulting in the batter being dismissed.
Run outs are the result of fielding, throwing, and batter-runner communication breaking down. While the batters are running between the wickets, the fielding team has an opportunity to throw down the stumps — directly (a direct hit) or via the wicket-keeper or bowler. If the stumps are hit and a bail is dislodged before the batter crosses the popping crease with bat or body, the batter is out. Run outs require accurate throwing, calm target awareness, and quick footwork and backing-up from the fielding team. On the batting side, poor calling ("yes," "no," "wait"), hesitation, or slow turning is the usual cause. Run outs can be decisive in close-run matches, particularly in the final overs of T20 games.
Example
The mid-on fields the ball cleanly and fires a flat return at the stumps; the batter slips while turning for a second run and the fielder's direct hit dismisses them for a run out.
Why it matters
Run outs are preventable losses of a wicket. SwingVantage's cricket analysis (in development) will analyse running-between-wickets patterns and bat-grounding speed in video to help batters understand where they are at risk.
Related terms
- Direct Hit Run-OutA direct hit run-out is when a fielder throws the ball and hits the stumps directly — without the ball being relayed through the wicket-keeper — to dismiss a batter who is short of their crease.
- CreaseThe crease is any of the white painted lines on the cricket pitch that define legal bowling positions, the safe zone for batters, and the starting point for LBW and run-out adjudications.
- StumpsStumps are the three upright wooden posts — off stump, middle stump, and leg stump — that form each wicket in cricket, topped by two small bails that fall if the ball strikes them.
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