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Cricket · Laws of Cricket

Law 38: Run Out

4 parts · 20 tests · 196 facts · updated 12 October 2026 · markdown

Under Law 38.1 either batter is out Run out if, at any time while the ball is in play, he is out of his ground and his wicket is fairly broken by the action of a fielder or by the ball rebounding off a fielder's person. A run need not be attempted, nothing in the Law excludes a Wide, and it applies even when No ball has been called, except in one keeper case.

Under Law 38.2 a batter is not out if he had been within his ground and left it to avoid injury, or if the delivered ball has not touched a fielder, the bowler included, before the wicket is broken. The striker is also not out if he is out Stumped, or if on a No ball he is out of his ground not attempting a run and the wicket-keeper breaks the wicket without another fielder's help.

Law 38.3 makes the non-striker liable to be Run out if he is out of his ground from the moment the ball comes into play until the bowler would normally have released it. If the ball is not delivered, Dead ball is called and the ball does not count in the over. Law 38.4 gives the wicket to the batter whose ground is at the end where it was broken (Law 30.2). Under Law 38.5 the run in progress is lost while completed runs and penalties stand. Law 38.6 gives the bowler no credit. The facts below cover each clause.

38.381Run Out: Out Run Out

How either batter is out Run out (out of his ground and his wicket fairly broken by a fielder's action or a rebound off a fielder, even on a No ball, whether or not a run is attempted) and which batter is out.

Test 1When a batter is out Run outTake a test

  1. The first condition is that he is out of his ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  2. The Law begins with either batter.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  3. The breaking of the wicket completes the dismissal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  4. The Law says at any time while the ball is in play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  5. Both conditions are needed: out of the ground and a fairly broken wicket.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  6. The wicket must be fairly broken by a fielder's action or a rebound.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  7. Law 29 defines breaking the wicket fairly.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 29 · recall

  8. Laws 38.1 to 38.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38 · applied

  9. The first clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  10. Law 38 follows Obstructing the field.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38 · recall

Test 2Fielder's action or a reboundTake a test

  1. Law 38.1 names the action of a fielder or the ball rebounding off a fielder's person.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  2. The fielder's action broke the wicket.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  3. The throw's hit completes the dismissal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  4. A rebound off a fielder's person is a means.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  5. Law 38.1 accepts two fair means: the wicket broken by a fielder's action, or by the ball rebounding off a fielder's person; a ball that has touched no fielder does not count (38.2.1.2).

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  6. The fielder's hand holding the ball is a fair means.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 29.2.1.5 · applied

  7. Law 29.2.1.5 needs the ball held in the hand used.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 29.2.1.5 · applied

  8. The rebound is the means.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  9. It is the second of the two ways named in the opening clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  10. Law 38.2.1.2: a batter is not out Run out if the ball delivered by the bowler has not made contact with a fielder before the wicket is broken.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

Test 3Even if No ball, with or without a runTake a test

  1. Law 38.1 says even though No ball has been called, except in the circumstances of 38.2.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  2. The Law says whether or not a run is being attempted.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  3. No attempt is needed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  4. A Run out needs no attempted run.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  5. Run out applies even on a No ball, save for the keeper case.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  6. Run out applies even though No ball has been called.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  7. The exception is the No ball keeper case.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  8. A No ball does not prevent it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  9. Nothing in the Law excludes a Wide.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  10. Law 38.1 does not need a run attempted.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

Test 4Which end and which batterTake a test

  1. Law 38.4 gives the wicket to the batter whose ground is at the end where it was fairly broken, decided by Law 30.2 on which ground is whose; it is not automatically the striker or the non-striker.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  2. The batter whose ground is at that end is out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  3. The end decides the batter.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  4. Dismissal and conduct of a batter and runner, and which is a batter's ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  5. Law 38.4 gives the batter whose ground is at that end.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  6. Law 30.2.2 settles the case where both batters are in one ground and one of them leaves it: the ground belongs to the batter who stays, and the other ground is then the leaver's (30.2.4).

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 30.2 · applied

  7. The fourth clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  8. Laws 25.6, 30.2 and 38.4.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  9. The batters had crossed, so nearness, not who faced the ball, sets the ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 30.2.3 · applied

  10. He must be out of his ground to be out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

Test 5Run out in casesTake a test

  1. A set-off that fails to reach the ground in time leaves him out with the wicket fairly broken.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  2. The striker attempted a run, so it is not Stumped.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  3. The appeal follows the breaking.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  4. Both conditions are needed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  5. Both conditions of Law 38.1 are met.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  6. See Law 38.2.1.2 on the ball not touching a fielder.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  7. Law 31.1 stops either umpire giving a batter out unless a fielder appeals, so a Run out, like any other dismissal, is given on a fielder's appeal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 31.1 · recall

  8. Laws 37, 38, 39 and 40.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 37 to 40 · applied

  9. Law 31.5 names Run out at the keeper's end.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 31.5 · recall

  10. Clauses 38.1 to 38.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38 · recall

38.382Run Out: Batter Not Out Run Out

When a batter is not out Run out (he left his ground to avoid injury, the ball had not touched a fielder, the striker is out Stumped, or on a No ball the keeper broke the wicket alone with the striker not running).

Test 1Leaving the ground to avoid injuryTake a test

  1. A batter within his ground who leaves it to avoid injury is not out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · recall

  2. Law 38.2.1.1 protects him.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · applied

  3. The protection applies.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · applied

  4. Note Law 30.1.2, When out of his ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · recall

  5. The only row with a batter who had been inside and then left to avoid injury is the first.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · applied

  6. The Law says he has been within his ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · recall

  7. The protection applies to a batter who was in the ground and left it to avoid injury.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · applied

  8. Law 38.2.1.1 (left his ground to avoid injury), 38.2.1.2 (the delivery had touched no fielder) and 38.2.2.1 (the striker is out Stumped instead), in that order.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1 · applied

  9. The second clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2 · recall

  10. The reason for leaving is what counts.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · applied

Test 2The ball has not touched a fielderTake a test

  1. The ball delivered by the bowler must have made contact with a fielder.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · recall

  2. Law 38.2.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  3. No fielder touch protects him.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  4. The bowler counts as a fielder for this purpose.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  5. Only the untouched ball protects the batter.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  6. The second circumstance of 38.2.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · recall

  7. No fielder touched it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  8. The fielder's touch removes the protection.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  9. Only a fielder's touch counts.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  10. The Law says the ball, delivered by the bowler.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · recall

Test 3The striker out StumpedTake a test

  1. Law 38.2.2.1 gives Stumped priority.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · recall

  2. The striker was not running and the keeper broke it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · applied

  3. The keeper's break ends it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · applied

  4. Dismissal and conduct of a batter and runner, and Out Stumped.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · recall

  5. Law 38.2.2.1 says he is not Run out when out Stumped.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · applied

  6. The clause is about the striker.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2 · recall

  7. The first circumstance of 38.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · recall

  8. Laws 38.2.2.1 and 38.2.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2 · applied

  9. Law 39.1.2 gives Stumped priority.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 39.1.2 · applied

  10. Law 39 follows Run out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 39 · recall

Test 4A No ball and the keeperTake a test

  1. Law 38.2.2.2 has three parts.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · recall

  2. A No ball bars Stumped and this clause bars Run out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · applied

  3. The exception applies.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · applied

  4. No other fielder intervenes.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · recall

  5. All three conditions of the clause are met only in the first row.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · applied

  6. The exception needs no intervention by another fielder.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · applied

  7. The No ball exception of 38.2.2.2 protects a striker whose wicket the keeper breaks while he is out of his ground not attempting a run; when he has a runner who is out of his ground, that protection falls away and the ordinary Run out rule of 38.1 alone decides.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · recall

  8. The Law lists them in that order.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · applied

  9. The second circumstance of 38.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · recall

  10. The striker is out of his ground not attempting a run.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.2 · recall

Test 5Not out Run out in casesTake a test

  1. 38.2.1.1 and 38.2.1.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1 · recall

  2. The second clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2 · recall

  3. Laws 38.2.1.1, 38.2.1.2, 38.2.2.1 and 38.2.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2 · applied

  4. Law 38.2.2 begins The striker is not out Run out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2 · recall

  5. Law 38.2 is headed Batter not out Run out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2 · applied

  6. No fielder touched the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.2 · applied

  7. He left to avoid injury.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · applied

  8. The circumstance protects him.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2 · applied

  9. The first circumstance for the striker.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · recall

  10. Out Stumped.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 39.1.2 · recall

38.383Run Out: The Non-Striker Leaving Early

The non-striker liable to be Run out if out of his ground from the ball coming into play until the bowler would normally release it, the break by the bowler's throw or hand holding the ball, what the umpire does if the ball is not delivered or is delivered, and the link to Law 21.6.

Test 1The non-striker liable to be Run outTake a test

  1. The period starts when the ball comes into play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · recall

  2. The period ends at the instant the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · recall

  3. The early departure is punished.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  4. Law 38.3.1 names the bowler throwing the ball at the wicket or his hand holding the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · recall

  5. Law 38.3.1 fixes that period.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  6. Whether or not the ball is subsequently delivered.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  7. The Law says whether or not the ball is subsequently delivered.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · recall

  8. The period runs between those moments.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  9. The third clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · recall

  10. The heading of the third clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · recall

Test 2The ball is not deliveredTake a test

  1. He decides on the appeal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · recall

  2. Dead ball is called.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · recall

  3. The ball does not count.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · applied

  4. Dead ball follows a Not out too.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · recall

  5. Law 38.3.2 requires Dead ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · applied

  6. The ball shall not count as one in the over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · recall

  7. The second sub-clause of 38.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · recall

  8. Dead ball is called.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · applied

  9. No appeal leads to Dead ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · applied

  10. Law 38.3.2 says that when the ball is not delivered because the bowler ran out the non-striker, that ball does not count as one of the over, whether or not the appeal succeeds.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.2 · applied

Test 3The ball is deliveredTake a test

  1. He decides on the appeal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · recall

  2. The ball remains in play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · recall

  3. The decision follows the appeal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · applied

  4. Bowler breaking wicket in delivering ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · recall

  5. Law 38.3.3 leaves it in play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · applied

  6. He decides on the appeal.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · applied

  7. The ball stays live.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · applied

  8. The third sub-clause of 38.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · recall

  9. Law 21.6 is the Law on the bowler breaking the wicket as he delivers the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 21.6 · applied

Test 4Law 21.6 and the bowler's breaking the wicketTake a test

  1. Law 21.6 makes a delivery a No ball when the bowler breaks the wicket before releasing the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 21.6 · recall

  2. Sub-clauses 38.3.1 to 38.3.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · applied

  3. Law 38.3.3 sends the reader to Law 21.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · applied

  4. Law 38.3.3 cites Law 21.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.3 · applied

  5. The non-striker may be run out within the period.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  6. Dead ball is Law 20.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 20 · recall

  7. No dismissal, but a No ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 21.6 · applied

  8. It ends when the bowler would normally release the ball.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · recall

  9. Once the release moment passes, early leaving no longer exposes him to this clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

Test 5Non-striker leaving early in casesTake a test

  1. He is out of his ground while the ball is in play.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  2. The Law contains no warning step.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · recall

  3. Laws 38.3.1 to 38.3.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · applied

  4. 38.3.1 to 38.3.3.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · recall

  5. Law 38.3.1 covers it whether or not the ball is delivered.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  6. He must be out of his ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  7. After release the early leaving rule is over.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · applied

  8. The break completes it.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

  9. Law 38.3.1.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · recall

  10. The wicket was not broken.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.1 · applied

38.384Run Out: Which Batter, Runs and Credit

Which batter is out (the one whose ground is at the end where the wicket is broken), the runs (the run in progress not scored, completed runs and penalties standing, and the special rule for a striker with a runner) and that the bowler gets no credit.

Test 1Which batter is outTake a test

  1. Law 38.4 uses the end where the wicket is broken.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  2. The ground belongs to him.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  3. The end decides.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  4. The fourth clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  5. Law 38.4 gives the batter whose ground it is.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  6. The heading of the fourth clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  7. Which is a batter's ground.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  8. Law 25.6 comes first, then Law 30.2, and Law 38.4, which cites both of them, comes last.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  9. Dismissal and conduct of a batter and his runner.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · recall

  10. Whichever batter is nearer owns that ground, which fixes who is out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 30.2.3 · applied

Test 2Runs scored on a Run outTake a test

  1. Law 38.5 says the run the batters were attempting when the wicket was broken is lost, while the runs they had already completed, and any penalty runs, are kept.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  2. Completed runs shall stand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  3. Completed runs stand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  4. Together with any runs for penalties awarded.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  5. Law 38.5 says it shall not be scored.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  6. The run in progress does not count.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  7. Runs awarded for penalties, and runs scored when a batter is dismissed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  8. Completed runs and penalties stand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  9. The fifth clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  10. Runs for penalties awarded to either side stand.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

Test 3The striker who has a runnerTake a test

  1. Law 38.5 disallows all runs to the batting side from that delivery.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  2. When a striker who has a runner is himself run out, Law 38.5 disallows the runs from that delivery but keeps the one-run No ball penalty and allows any 5-run penalties that apply.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  3. All runs are disallowed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  4. The umpire shall return the non-striker.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  5. Law 38.5 disallows all runs.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  6. All runs are disallowed.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  7. The Law lists them in that order.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

  8. The Law says a striker who has a runner.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  9. The umpire returns him.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · applied

Test 4The bowler gets no credit and cross-referencesTake a test

  1. Law 38.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.6 · recall

  2. No bowler gets credit.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.6 · applied

  3. The credit question follows.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.6 · applied

  4. The last clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.6 · recall

  5. Law 38.6 gives the bowler no credit.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.6 · applied

  6. Stumped is Law 39.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.1 · recall

  7. Laws 38.4, 38.5 and 38.6.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38 · applied

  8. The note refers to the loss of contact rule.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.1 · recall

  9. Runs for penalties, runs on dismissal and the runner rule.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

Test 5Law 38 as a wholeTake a test

  1. Law 37.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 37 · recall

  2. Law 39.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 39 · recall

  3. Laws 38.1 to 38.5.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38 · applied

  4. The first clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.1 · recall

  5. Law 38.4 is headed Which batter is out.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.4 · applied

  6. The second clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2 · recall

  7. The third clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3 · recall

  8. The decision follows.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38 · applied

  9. The fifth clause.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.5 · recall

  10. 38.2.2.1 and 38.2.2.2.

    Source: MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2 · recall

Questions people ask

Can a batter be run out off a No ball?
Yes. Law 38.1 applies even though No ball has been called, except where the wicket-keeper alone breaks the wicket of a striker who is out of his ground and not attempting a run.
Can a batter be run out without trying to take a run?
Yes. Law 38.1 says the dismissal applies whether or not a run is being attempted, as long as he is out of his ground and the wicket is fairly broken.
Can the bowler run out a non-striker who leaves his crease early?
Yes, if the non-striker is out of his ground between the ball coming into play and the moment the bowler would normally release it. The Law contains no warning step, and once that moment has passed this clause no longer applies.
Can the non-striker be run out by a straight drive that hits his stumps?
Only if the ball touched a fielder before breaking the wicket, and the bowler counts as a fielder for this purpose. A ball from the bat that touches no fielder does not run him out (Law 38.2.1.2).
Which batter is out when the batters have crossed?
The batter whose ground is at the end where the wicket was broken, decided by the ownership rules of Law 30.2. It is not automatically the striker or the non-striker.
Do completed runs count when a batter is run out?
Yes. The run being attempted when the wicket was broken is lost, but runs already completed and any penalty runs stand. When a striker with a runner is himself run out, all runs from that delivery are disallowed, apart from the No ball and 5-run penalties.
Is a run out credited to the bowler?
No. Law 38.6 says the bowler does not get credit for a run out.

Sources

MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd edition, 2022), Law 38 with Laws 21.6, 25.6, 29, 30, 31, 39 as cross-references (paraphrased in original wording; original questions authored from the Laws, not reproduced)

  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.133
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.521
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.417
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.117
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.212
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.1.110
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.210
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.210
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.3.310
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.2.18
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.37
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 386
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.26
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.65
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.24
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 21.63
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 29.2.1.52
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 30.2.32
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 38.2.12
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 39.1.22
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 392
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 291
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 30.21
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 31.11
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Laws 37 to 401
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 31.51
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 201
  • MCC Laws of Cricket 2017 code (3rd ed. 2022), Law 371