Laws of Cricket 1980 Code - Law 34

Law 34 - Hit the Ball Twice

1. Out Hit the Ball Twice

The striker, on appeal, shall be out Hit the Ball Twice if, after the ball is struck or is stopped by any part of his person, he wilfully strikes it again with his bat or person except for the sole purpose of guarding his wicket: this he may do with his bat or any part of his person other than his hands, but see Law 37.2 (Obstructing a Ball From Being Caught).

For the purpose of this Law, a hand holding the bat shall be regarded as part of the bat.

2. Returning the Ball to a Fieldsman

The striker, on appeal, shall be out under this Law, if, without the consent of the opposite side, he uses his bat or person to return the ball to any of the fielding side.

3. Runs from Ball Lawfully Struck Twice

No runs except those which result from an overthrow or penalty, see Law 41 (The Fieldsman), shall be scored from a ball lawfully struck twice.

Notes

1. Entry in Score-Book

The correct entry in the score-book when the striker is given out under this Law is "hit the ball twice", and the bowler does not get credit for the wicket.

2. Runs Credited to the Batsman

Any runs awarded under 3 above as a result of an overthrow or penalty shall be credited to the striker, provided the ball in the first instance has touched the bat, or, if otherwise as extras.

Reproduction of the Laws of Cricket is by kind permission of Marylebone Cricket Club

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