Umpire Signals in Cricket
A complete guide to all official umpire hand signals in cricket — what each signal means, when it is used, and how scorers record them.
Why Umpire Signals Matter
Umpire signals communicate decisions to players, scorers, and spectators — many of whom are too far away to hear verbal announcements. Standard signals were codified in the Laws of Cricket to ensure consistent communication across all formats and venues worldwide.
The Main Umpire Signals
| Signal | Action | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Raised index finger | One hand raised, index finger extended | Out — batter dismissed |
| Both arms extended horizontally | Arms held out to the sides | Wide delivery |
| Arm bent across chest | Forearm across the chest | No Ball |
| Arm raised, hand pointing skyward | One arm raised | One short run |
| Both arms raised above head | Arms raised together | Six runs scored |
| Hand patting downward | Hand waved downward | Four runs (boundary) |
| Finger and thumb joined | OK gesture toward scorer | Revoke Last Signal |
| Hand rotated in circle | Circular wrist motion | Dead Ball |
| Wrist tapped | Tap on wrist area | Five Penalty Runs (batting side) |
| Shoulder tapped | Tap on shoulder | Five Penalty Runs (fielding side) |
Signals to the Scorers
Umpires must confirm signals to the scorers by repeating them until acknowledged. This is most important after boundaries, penalty runs, and no-balls, where the scorer needs to record the exact nature of the delivery and any associated extras.
Signal Timing
Signals are given at the end of the delivery, not during play. The Out signal is raised only after the fielding side appeals — umpires do not give batters out without an appeal for most modes of dismissal. The Wide and No Ball signals are given immediately at the end of the delivery.
Six and No-Ball Combined
The batter hits a no-ball over the rope. The umpire first signals No Ball (arm across chest), then signals Six (both arms raised). The scorer records a 6 from no-ball — 7 extras total to the batting side. The batter cannot be dismissed off this delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What signal does an umpire use for a six?
Both arms are raised above the head simultaneously to signal a six. This is one of the most recognisable signals in cricket and is clearly visible from the furthest stands.
How does an umpire signal penalty runs?
Penalty runs awarded to the batting side are signalled by tapping the wrist; penalty runs to the fielding side by tapping the shoulder. Five runs are awarded in each case.