Handled the ball

Handled the ball is a method of dismissal in the sport of cricket.

Definition

Law 33 of the Laws of cricket provides that:

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"Either batsman is out Handled the ball if he wilfully touches the ball while in play with a hand or hands not holding the bat unless he does so with the consent of the opposing side."

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A batsman is not out 'handled the ball' if:

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(i) He handles the ball in order to avoid injury; OR

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(ii) He uses his hand or hands to return the ball to any member of the fielding side without the consent of that side.

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Though a batsman is out 'obstructing the field' if he uses his hand or hands to return the ball to any member of the fielding side without the consent of that side when the ball is still in play.

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This method of dismissal was recorded in the first laws that were published, in 1774. Law 3 included the words "If the Striker touches or takes up the Ball before she is lain quite still, unless asked by the Bowler or Wicket-keeper, its out".

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