Cricket umpires use a series of hand signals to communicate decisions to players, scorers, and fans. Understanding these signals is essential for following the game and knowing what is happening on the field during live matches.
Scoring Signals
Boundary (4 runs)
When a ball reaches the boundary rope after bouncing, the umpire extends one arm horizontally to the side. This signals that 4 runs have been scored and is one of the most common signals in cricket.
Six
When a ball clears the boundary without bouncing, the umpire raises both arms above their head. This is the most exciting signal in cricket, indicating a maximum hit that sends the crowd into a frenzy.
Wide Ball
When a delivery is too wide for the batsman to hit, the umpire extends both arms horizontally to the sides. This signals that the batting team gets 1 run and the ball is re-bowled.
No Ball
When a bowler oversteps the crease or bowls an illegal delivery, the umpire extends one arm horizontally to the side. This signals that the batting team gets 1 run and a free hit in limited-overs cricket.
Bye
When the ball passes the batsman without being touched and runs are scored, the umpire raises one arm vertically above their head. This signals that the runs are credited as byes.
Leg Bye
When the ball deflects off the batsman body (not the bat) and runs are scored, the umpire raises one arm and touches their thigh with the other hand. This signals that the runs are credited as leg byes.
Dismissal Signals
Out
When a batsman is dismissed, the umpire raises their index finger above their head. This is the most dramatic signal in cricket and is awaited with great anticipation by players and fans alike.
Not Out
When an appeal is turned down, the umpire waves their arms horizontally in front of their body or extends both arms to the sides. This signals that the batsman is not out.
Third Umpire Review
When the on-field umpire wants to consult the third umpire, they make a TV screen shape with their hands (thumbs and index fingers forming a rectangle). This signals that the decision is being reviewed.
Time Signals
Start of Play
The umpire signals the start of play by tapping their wrist (where a watch would be) and then pointing to the field of play.
Drinks Break
For a drinks break, the umpire makes a drinking motion with their hand near their mouth.
Lunch/Tea Break
For scheduled breaks, the umpire points to the pavilion or dressing room area.
End of Over
The umpire signals the end of an over by pointing to the opposite end of the pitch from where the next over will be bowled.
Fielding Signals
Catch Appeal
When fielders appeal for a catch, the umpire will either raise their finger (out) or shake their head/wave arms (not out). The umpire may also consult with square leg for close catches.
Run Out Appeal
For run out decisions, the umpire will check with square leg (for the striker end) or with the bowler end umpire (for the non-striker end). They will either raise their finger or signal not out.
DRS Signals
Review Requested
When a team requests a review, the umpire makes a TV screen shape with their hands and points to the reviewing team dressing room.
Umpire Call
When the ball-tracking shows the decision is too close to call, the umpire original decision stands. This is indicated by the third umpire saying umpire call.
Successful Review
If the review overturns the original decision, the umpire signals the new decision (out or not out) to the players.
Communication Between Umpires
Wrist Radio
Modern umpires use wrist radios to communicate with the third umpire. They speak into a microphone on their wrist and receive responses through an earpiece.
Eye Contact
On-field umpires maintain constant eye contact with each other to coordinate decisions, especially for run outs and stumpings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do umpires raise one finger for out?
The raised finger is a clear, unambiguous signal that can be seen from anywhere in the stadium. It has become the traditional way to signal a dismissal in cricket.
What does it mean when the umpire taps the shoulder?
When the umpire taps their shoulder, it indicates that the ball has hit the batsman protective equipment (usually the helmet or arm guard) and they need to check if the batsman is okay.
Can umpires change their decision?
Umpires can change their decision if they realize they made a mistake, but only before the next ball is bowled. Once the next ball is delivered, the previous decision stands.
Sources: ICC Umpiring Guidelines, MCC Laws of Cricket, ECB Umpire Training Manual