Timed Out in Cricket — The Rarest Dismissal Explained
What timed out means in cricket, when the Law applies, the Angola vs Sri Lanka ICC World Cup 2023 incident, and why it is so rarely invoked.
What Is Timed Out?
Under Law 40 of the Laws of Cricket, a new batter must be ready to face a delivery — or allow the current striker to face — within three minutes of the previous batter being dismissed. If the incoming batter is not ready in time and the fielding side formally appeals, the umpire must give the batter out 'timed out'. The new batter is dismissed without facing a single ball.
The Only ICC Tournament Example
The first-ever timed-out dismissal in international cricket occurred at the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup when Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews was given out timed out against Bangladesh. Mathews had a broken helmet strap and could not be ready in time; Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan formally appealed. The dismissal was given and stood despite Mathews' protests. The incident sparked global debate about sportsmanship.
Why It Is So Rarely Invoked
The three-minute window is generally sufficient for a prepared batter to reach the crease even after unexpected delays. Fielding sides have historically declined to appeal out of sportsmanship. The Angelo Mathews incident changed that perception — some teams now view it as a legitimate tactical and legal option if the batters are genuinely not ready within the window.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the incoming batter have to be ready?
Three minutes, under Law 40. The clock starts from the moment the previous batter is dismissed or leaves the field. In practice, the outgoing batter often delays to allow the new batter more time, which is within the laws.
Does the batter score any runs if timed out?
No. The batter did not face a delivery, so no runs are scored. The dismissal counts against the batting team's wicket tally, and the next batter in line must come in.
Can timed out be reviewed with DRS?
There is no DRS component to a timed-out decision — it is a factual matter of whether three minutes elapsed. However, the timing evidence (match clocks, broadcast footage) can be examined. In the Angelo Mathews case, the on-field umpire's decision was upheld.