Wide Balls in Cricket: The Exception to the Rule

In cricket, a wide ball is a delivery that is deemed too wide of the batsman to hit. While a wide ball does not count as one of the six legal deliveries in an over and the batting team is awarded one extra run, it does not typically result in a dismissal for the batsman. However, there are several scenarios under which a batsman can still be dismissed off a wide ball. This article explores the nuances of wide balls in cricket and the unique ways in which a batsman can be dismissed under such circumstances.

Understanding Wide Balls in Cricket

A wide ball is a delivery that is considered outside the batsman's playing area and is not deemed to be within their reach. If a bowler bowls a wide, it is not counted as one of the six legitimate deliveries in an over. Instead, the non-striking batsman scores an extra run. This rule exists to ensure fair play and to prevent bowlers from attempting to bowl illegally wide to avoid other legitimate dismissals.

Dismissal Scenarios Involving Wide Balls

While a batsman cannot be dismissed by conventional means such as being bowled, caught, or leg before wicket from a wide ball, there are specific scenarios where a dismissive outcome is possible:

1. Run Out

One of the most likely scenarios for a wides out dismissal is if the batsman attempts to run and steps out of their crease before the non-striker's wicket is broken. In this case, the wicketkeeper or a fielder can break the wicket, and the batsman will be run out. This rule upholds the spirit of the game and ensures that attempts to score an additional run from a wide ball do not go unpunished.

2. Obstructing the Field

Another scenario involves the batsman deliberately obstructing the fielding side. If a batsman deliberately hits the ball back to the fielder or purposefully obstructs the fielders in any way, they can be given out for obstructing the field. This situation is rare because keeping the ball away from the fielders can often be a strategic move, and fielding teams must act proportionately to avoid false dismissals.

3. Hit Wicket

A unique and surprisingly effective way a batsman can be dismissed off a wide ball is by being hit wicket. According to the LAW 39 (9) STRIKER OUT HIT WICKET, a batsman can be dismissed if their wicket is knocked down by any part of their body or equipment (bat, helmet, etc.) while they are in the act of preparing to receive the ball, setting off for a run, or attempting to guard their wicket. This is a less common dismissal but it is technically valid for wide balls as well as any other legal deliveries.

The definition of Hit Wicket in the law is as follows:

The striker is out if after the bowler enters the delivery stride and while the ball is in play, their wicket is put down by their bat or person. This can happen in the following situations: In the course of actions such as receiving the ball, or Immediately after playing or attempting to play the ball, or If they do not attempt to play the ball when setting off for the first run, provided this is done immediately after the opportunity to play the ball, or In the lawful second or further stroke for the purpose of guarding the wicket. Notably, the striker is not out if the wicket is put down after receiving the ball, while running but not immediately setting off for the first run, while trying to avoid being run out or stumped, or while avoiding a throw. Additionally, if the bowler does not deliver the ball after entering the delivery stride, a dead ball is called.

Examples and Famous Instances

One famous instance of a batsman being dismissed off a wide ball is when Ashwin bowled a wide and MSD was stumped. This highlights the fact that even wide balls can result in interesting and unique dismissals, provided the batsman commits a foul in the process.

Another notable example is when a batsman hits the wicket with their body or equipment, resulting in a hit wicket dismissal. This can happen in various ways during the course of play.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while wide balls are generally beneficial to the batting team, they can also serve as a cunning tool for dismissal. Run out, obstructing the field, and hit wicket are the primary ways a batsman can be dismissed off a wide ball, each with specific conditions and scenarios. Understanding these nuances is key to appreciating the strategic complexity of the game and the exceptional rules that govern wide balls in cricket.