Cricket is a game of fine margins, and sometimes the way a player gets dismissed becomes more memorable than the runs they score. From shocking run-outs to bizarre catches, dramatic dismissals have provided some of the sport’s most unforgettable moments. These incidents not only display skill and luck but also the unpredictability that makes cricket so captivating.
The Classic “Handled the Ball” Incident
One of cricket’s rarest and strangest dismissals occurred when a batsman was given out for “handling the ball.” In 2016, West Indies Jeetbuzz player Jason Roy became a modern example of this when he accidentally touched the ball with his hand while trying to stop it from hitting the stumps. Though unintentional, the decision followed the rules—making it a mix of drama and disbelief.
Inzamam-ul-Haq’s Comic Run-Out
Inzamam-ul-Haq was involved in several dramatic dismissals, but one stands out above all. Attempting a quick single, he stumbled, dropped his bat, and was hilariously stranded mid-pitch as the fielders removed the bails. It was both tragic and funny—an iconic moment that still makes highlight reels today.
Ben Stokes’ Obstructing the Field
In a rare and controversial moment, Ben Stokes was given out for “obstructing the field” during a 2015 ODI against Australia. Trying to avoid being hit by a throw, Stokes instinctively raised his hand, deflecting the ball away from the stumps. The appeal was upheld, and the dismissal sparked intense debate and drama across the cricketing world.
The “Hit Wicket” Surprise
Getting out by hitting one’s own stumps is always dramatic. Former England captain Alastair Cook once stepped too far back during a delivery and accidentally dislodged the bails with his bat. The crowd gasped, and Cook walked off shaking his head—a reminder that even the best can fall to the simplest mistakes.
MS Dhoni’s Lightning Stumpings
When it comes to wicketkeeping drama, few moments match MS Dhoni’s lightning-fast stumpings. His no-look dismissals, especially in crucial T20 games, have left batsmen stunned and fans cheering in disbelief. His ability to turn a split-second opportunity into a wicket defines cricketing brilliance.
The “Mankading” Controversy
Named after Indian bowler Vinoo Mankad, this form of dismissal—when a bowler runs out the non-striker before delivering the ball—always sparks heated debate. Recent instances, such as those involving Ravichandran Ashwin, have reignited arguments about sportsmanship versus playing by the rules, making it one of cricket’s most dramatic talking points.
AB de Villiers’ Run-Out Chaos
During a World Cup semifinal, South Africa’s AB de Villiers was involved in one of the most heart-stopping run-outs in cricket history. A mix-up between the batsmen and a direct throw from the field ended South Africa’s hopes Jeetwin in heartbreaking fashion, proving how a single dismissal can change everything.
Shane Warne’s “Ball of the Century”
Although technically a brilliant delivery, Shane Warne’s dismissal of Mike Gatting in 1993 was pure drama. The ball spun nearly two feet to clip the top of off-stump, leaving Gatting—and everyone watching—stunned. It remains one of the most jaw-dropping dismissals in cricket history.
FAQ
Q1: What is considered the most dramatic dismissal in cricket history?
Shane Warne’s “Ball of the Century” is often regarded as one of the most dramatic and skillful dismissals ever.
Q2: Why do unusual dismissals attract so much attention?
They combine surprise, controversy, and skill, creating unforgettable moments that spark debate among fans and experts alike.
Q3: What is the rarest type of dismissal in cricket?
“Handled the ball” and “obstructing the field” are among the rarest, occurring only a handful of times in professional cricket.
