Explained: What is Obstructing the field in cricket

Obstructing the field in cricket refers to one of the rarest forms of dismissals.

Unlike regular dismissals, the interpretation of the 'obstructing the field' depends on how the umpires read the situation.

The first known instance of a batter given out for obstructing the field took place during an English domestic cricket match between Sheffield Cricket Club and Bents Green in August 1792.

England’s Len Hutton was the first player to be given out for obstructing the field in international cricket. The incident occurred during the fifth Test of South Africa’s tour of England at the Oval in London in August 1951. Know what obstructing the field in cricket means.

What is obstructing the field in cricket

According to MCC laws of cricket, a batter can be given out if he/she wilfully attempts to obstruct or distract the fielding side by word or action.

The law further states a batter can be given out for obstructing the field if he/she strikes the ball with a hand or other body parts, except for the hand holding the bat. 

The law further explains that the rule is applicable even in case of a no ball. In case of a legal delivery, the striker is out obstructing the field if wilful obstruction or distraction by either batter prevents the striker from being caught. 

If an obstruction or distraction takes place on a no ball, then the batter (striker or non-striker) who caused the obstruction or distraction will be out obstructing the field.

Additionally, a batter can be dismissed for obstructing the field if he/she catches the ball or returns the ball to the fielder without their consent.

Players to be dismissed obstructing the field: Get the list of players in international cricket

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