Handled the Ball in Cricket
The history of the 'Handled the Ball' dismissal, how the law changed in 2017, and why deliberate handling is now classified under Obstructed the Field.
What Was the Handled the Ball Dismissal?
Law 33 previously stated that a batter could be given out if they used their hand — other than the hand holding the bat — to touch the ball without the fielding side's consent. This was a separate mode of dismissal from Obstructed the Field.
The 2017 Law Change
In October 2017, the MCC consolidated Laws 33 (Handled the Ball) and 37 (Obstructed the Field) into a single dismissal: Obstructed the Field. The scorebook entry now reads 'Obstructed the Field' even when the method is deliberate handling.
When Handling Is Lawful
A batter may handle the ball lawfully if they first obtain the fielding side's consent. This sometimes occurs when a ball lodges in a batter's clothing — the fielding side typically gives consent to remove it rather than appeal for obstruction.
Famous Instances
Before the law change, Handled the Ball dismissals were extremely rare. Michael Vaughan in 2001, Andrew Hilditch in 1979, and Graham Gooch in 1993 are among the small number of Test batters dismissed this way.
Practical Situations
- Ball rolls back to hit the stumps — batter catches it: dismissal possible
- Ball lodges in pads — batter removes it without consent: dismissal possible
- Ball rebound off bat lodges in collar — fielding side gives consent: no dismissal
- Ball deflects off bat into hand — accidental and lawful
Accidental vs Deliberate Handling
The ball pops off a thick edge straight up. The batter, startled, catches it out of instinct. The umpire considers whether the catch was deliberate. If considered accidental, the batter is not dismissed. If deliberate — to prevent the wicketkeeper catching it — dismissal follows.
Frequently asked questions
Is 'Handled the Ball' still a method of dismissal in cricket?
Not as a standalone mode. Since 2017, deliberate handling of the ball is classified under Law 37 — Obstructed the Field. The scorecard records it as obstruction.
What if the ball rolls toward the stumps and the batter picks it up?
If the fielding side appeals, the batter may be given out Obstructed the Field. A batter may only handle the ball lawfully if the fielding side gives consent.