Overthrows in Cricket

Overthrows occur when a fielder's throw misses the wicket or is deflected and the ball travels toward the boundary or allows batsmen to run additional runs. They are a common source of extra runs — and one of the most controversial scoring events in cricket law.

How Overthrow Runs Are Scored

When a throw from a fielder misses the stumps and continues to roll, batsmen can keep running to accumulate additional runs. If the overthrow reaches the boundary, four runs are added to whatever the batsmen had already run. If the ball clears the boundary without bouncing, six runs are added (though this is extremely rare from an overthrow).

The 2019 World Cup Final Controversy

The most controversial overthrow in cricket history occurred in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup Final between England and New Zealand. Ben Stokes dived to complete a run; the throw from the outfield deflected off his bat to the boundary. Six runs were awarded (two already run + four boundary overthrow). However, Law 19.8 states overthrow boundary runs should be counted from the moment the fielder releases the throw — and the two runs may not have been completed. The six runs stood, directly affecting the result.

Overthrows from the Wicketkeeper

If the wicketkeeper misses a stumping or fumbles a delivery and the ball rolls away, batsmen can run extras. The wicketkeeper is responsible for stopping all balls that pass the stumps — a fumble allows runs that would not otherwise be possible.