Understanding the LBW Rule in Cricket:
If a batter deliberately plays the ball with their pad, intending to avoid hitting the stumps, are they out LBW? To dive into the complexities of the LBW (Leg Before Wicket) rule, we consulted with umpire Pradeep Rawal. Former umpire Anil Chaudhary has also discussed LBW intricacies in a video.
Let's unravel this. The confusion often arises in scenarios like: a right-handed batter sees the ball strike the pad without attempting a shot, carrying the pad outside the line of the off-stump. What happens if no shot is played? Is it out?
According to Pradeep Rawal: the pitch of the ball, intentional absence of a shot, and alignment with the stumps are crucial. He adds that ball height and impact are significant. Pradeep Rawal is a BCCI-certified Level-II umpire with the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA).
When is LBW Not Out?
1: A no-ball means no LBW out. 2: For a right-handed batter, if the ball pitches outside leg stump, there's no LBW. 3: If the ball first hits the bat, then pad, no LBW out. 4: If the ball isn't hitting the stumps, irrespective of the pitch or no ball, it's not LBW.
When is a Batter Out LBW?
- Firstly, the delivery must be fair, and the pitch inside the line of the stumps. The ball should strike the pad in a position that convinces the umpire of proper height and alignment, indicating a possible stump hit. Then, the umpire can rule LBW.
- If a right-handed batter is playing, and the ball pitches outside off-stump, the pitch position generally does not determine the LBW outcome. What matters is the ball's impact location. If they attempt a shot, it's not out.
- However, if the ball pitches outside off-stump, and they leave it, yet the umpire perceives it moving inward towards the stumps, an out is ruled.
- There's debate around LBW when the ball pitches at the wicket, heading towards it, suggesting contact. In cases where the gap between bat and pad is minimal, making it challenging to discern first contact, TV umpires support on-field decisions. If deemed out initially, it stands; likewise, not out remains unchanged.
