Running Between the Wickets in Cricket

Running between the wickets is one of the most undervalued skills in cricket. Elite running partnerships convert 1s into 2s, take short singles from misfields, and turn 2s into 3s with sharp turning — potentially adding 20 to 40 extra runs across an innings compared to a poor running partnership. Conversely, a run-out — typically from a miscommunication or poor judgement — is one of the most frustrating ways to lose a wicket.

The Calling Convention

Running between the wickets relies on clear communication between the two batters. The convention is: 'Yes' — we run; 'No' — don't run; 'Wait' — hold until I decide. The batter who has hit the ball makes the initial call, since they can see where it is going. The non-striker responds quickly. If the striker calls 'Wait' and then 'Yes', both batters must be immediately ready to go at full speed. Hesitation after a 'Wait' is the most common cause of run-outs.

When to Run

• Ball into gaps: any ball that beats fielders on the off side or leg side often offers a safe single
• Misfields: a dropped ball or fumble can turn a single into a double — the non-striker must be alert
• Against slow outfielders: identify weaker fielders before the innings and target them for sharp running
• Defensive strokes: a ball played back down the pitch to mid-on or mid-off can yield a quick single if the fielder moves slowly
• Overthrows: always be ready to take extra runs if the fielder throws inaccurately

Turning for a Second Run

Turning at the non-striker's end for a second run requires the striker (arriving at the non-striker's end) to clearly indicate whether to run again — typically with a hand signal or shout while turning. The non-striker, arriving at the striker's end, must be in the act of turning and ready to run immediately. The key rule: the batter nearest the danger end calls 'Yes' or 'No' for the next run.