Is Hit Wicket Out Possible on a Wide Ball?

Yes, a batsman can be given out hit wicket from a wide ball. The rules of cricket allow for this, with an additional one run penalty applied to the scoring.

Understanding the Possibility of a Hit Wicket Out on a Wide Ball

A hit wicket out from a wide ball is a rare but possible situation in cricket. If a batsman overbalances while attempting to reach a wide ball and steps on his stumps, or if he tries to avoid hitting the wicket with any part of his body or equipment (including helmet) and subsequently treads on the wicket, he can be given out.

Rarity of a Hit Wicket Out on a Wide Ball

Given the rarity of a hit wicket out occurring as a result of a wide ball, it is unlikely to have been witnessed in international cricket. However, it does happen, as per the cricket laws.

Eligibility of a Hit Wicket Out on a Wide Ball

Hit wicket can occur on a wide ball, but not on a no ball. The following laws under the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) govern this scenario:

Explanation of Law for Hit Wicket Out on a Wide Ball

Law 35: How a Player is Out Hit Wicket

According to Law 35 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, a batsman can be given out hit wicket if their wicket is put down in any of the following instances:

After the Bowler has Enters his Delivery Stride: If the batsman hits his wicket with either his bat or his person (this includes any part of his body or equipment) while the bowler is in the process of delivering the ball, he is out hit wicket. Setting Off for the First Run: If the batsman puts down his wicket after playing or attempting to play at the ball and immediately starts running, he is out hit wicket. No Attempt to Play the Ball: If the batsman makes no attempt to play the ball but still puts down his wicket, he is out hit wicket as per the opinion of the umpire. Guarding His Wicket: If the batsman legally makes a second or further stroke for the purpose of guarding his wicket, he can be out hit wicket.

Law 28.1: Wicket Put Down

According to Law 28.1, the wicket put down can occur in the following ways:

In the Course of Preparation: This includes any action taken while preparing to receive or receive a delivery. Afterset Off for His First Run: This includes the action taken immediately after playing or playing at the ball and starting to run. No Opportunity to Play the Ball: The batsman must have been given the opportunity to play the ball before initiating any action for running. Lawfully Striking the Ball More Than Once: This includes legally hitting the ball more than once for the purpose of guarding his wicket.

Scenarios Leading to a Hit Wicket Out on a Wide Ball

Several scenarios can lead to a hit wicket out on a wide ball:

Overbalancing: A batsman may overbalance while attempting to reach a wide ball and fall onto their stumps, causing the wicket to be put down. Foot or Equipment Touching the Wicket: If any part of the batsman's body or his equipment (including the helmet) touches the wicket, the wicket can be deemed down, resulting in a hit wicket out. Attempting to Avoid the Ball: If the batsman tries to avoid hitting the wicket and subsequently treads on it, he can be given out hit wicket.

Conclusion

While rare, a batsman can indeed be given out hit wicket from a wide ball. Understanding the rules and scenarios surrounding this dismissal is crucial for both players and umpires to ensure fair and accurate decision-making on the field.

Key Notes:

A hit wicket out on a wide ball can occur, provided the batsman has no intention of playing the ball and hits the stump with any part of his body or equipment. No hit wicket out can occur on a no ball. Law 35 and Law 28.1 provide detailed explanations of how a hit wicket out can be called in cricket.