Umpire Signals: The Secret Language of Cricket
Cricket umpires use hand signals to communicate decisions to players, scorers, and fans. If you've ever watched cricket and wondered "what does that arm wave mean?" — this guide is for you.
Umpire signals are actually pretty logical once you understand them. Let me walk you through every signal you'll see in a cricket match.
Scoring Signals
Boundary (4 runs)
The umpire extends one arm horizontally to the side, parallel to the ground. This signals that the ball has reached the boundary after bouncing.
Six
The umpire raises both arms straight above the head. This is the most exciting signal in cricket — it means the ball has cleared the boundary without bouncing.
Wide Ball
The umpire extends both arms horizontally to the sides, forming a "T" shape. This signals that the ball was too far from the batsman to hit, and the batting team gets 1 run plus an extra ball.
No Ball
The umpire extends one arm horizontally to the side, similar to the boundary signal but held for longer. This signals an illegal delivery (usually because the bowler overstepped the crease).
Bye
The umpire raises one arm vertically above the head. This signals that runs were scored without the batsman touching the ball (the ball went past the wicketkeeper).
Leg Bye
The umpire raises one arm and taps the thigh with the other hand. This signals that the ball deflected off the batsman's body (not the bat) and runs were scored.
Dead Ball
The umpire crosses both arms in front of the chest. This signals that the ball is dead and no runs can be scored.
Dismissal Signals
Out (Bowled, Caught, LBW, etc.)
The umpire raises the index finger of the right hand above the head. This is the most dramatic signal in cricket — it means the batsman is out.
Not Out
The umpire extends both arms horizontally to the sides (like the wide signal) or waves the arms in a horizontal motion. This signals that the appeal is turned down.
Run Out
The umpire raises the index finger while the other arm points towards the pavilion. This signals that the batsman has been run out.
Stumped
The umpire raises the index finger while the other arm is extended horizontally. This signals that the wicketkeeper has stumped the batsman.
Review Signals
DRS Review Requested
The umpire makes a square shape with both hands (like a TV screen). This signals that a Decision Review System (DRS) review has been requested.
Review Upheld (Umpire's Call)
The umpire taps the chest with the palm. This signals that the original decision stands after review.
Review Overturned
The umpire makes a rotating motion with the hand. This signals that the original decision has been overturned.
Other Signals
Third Umpire Consultation
The umpire makes a telephone gesture (thumb and pinky extended, other fingers closed) near the ear. This signals that the on-field umpire is consulting the third umpire.
Time Out
The umpire taps the watch on the wrist. This signals a break in play (drinks, lunch, or the interval between innings).
Bowling Change
The umpire points towards the new bowler's end. This signals that a different bowler is coming on.
End Change
The umpire raises both arms above the head and crosses them. This signals that the teams are changing ends.
The Umpire's Position
Bowling End Umpire
Stands at the bowler's end, about 20 yards behind the stumps. This umpire:
- Makes most of the scoring signals
- Calls no-balls and wides
- Gives LBW decisions
- Manages DRS reviews
Square Leg Umpire
Stands at square leg, roughly in line with the popping crease. This umpire:
- Gives run-out decisions at the striker's end
- Signals byes and leg byes
- Checks for no-balls (overstepping)
- Gives stumpings
The Umpire's Clothing
Umpires wear distinctive clothing to be easily identified:
- White coat (traditional) or colored clothing (in limited-overs)
- Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
- Dark glasses for glare
- Counter for tracking balls in the over
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do umpires raise one finger for out?
The raised index finger is the traditional signal for "out" in cricket. It's a clear, visible gesture that everyone in the stadium can see.
What does it mean when the umpire taps the shoulder?
When the umpire taps the shoulder, it signals that the ball has hit the batsman's protective equipment (usually the helmet or arm guard). This is used to track impact for safety reasons.
Can umpires change their decision?
Yes, umpires can change their decision if they realize they made a mistake, but only before the next ball is bowled. After that, the decision stands unless overturned by DRS.
What is the umpire's call in DRS?
"Umpire's call" means the ball-tracking technology shows the decision is too close to call. In this case, the original decision stands whether it was out or not out.
How many umpires are in a cricket match?
There are 2 on-field umpires, 1 third umpire (TV umpire), and 1 match referee. The third umpire assists with DRS reviews and close calls.
Sources: ICC Umpiring Guidelines, MCC Laws of Cricket, ECB Umpire Training Manual
Last updated: July 2026 | Author: CricAI Editorial | Category: Cricket Education