Laws of Cricket 1980 Code - Law 37

Law 37 - Obstructing the Field

1. Wilful Obstruction

Either batsman, on appeal, shall be out Obstructing the Field if he wilfully obstructs the opposite side by word or action.

2. Obstructing a Ball from Being Caught

The striker, on appeal, shall be out should wilful obstruction by either batsman prevent a catch being made.

This shall apply even though the striker causes the obstruction in lawfully guarding his wicket under the provisions of Law 34. See Law 34.1 (Out Hit the Ball Twice).

Notes

1. Accidental Obstruction

The umpires must decide whether the obstruction was wilful or not. The accidental interception of a throw-in by a batsman while running does not break this Law.

2. Entry in Score-Book

The correct entry in the score-book when a batsman is given out under this Law is "obstructing the field", and the bowler does not get credit for the wicket.

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

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