Cricket is a game defined by strategy and skill and features distinct terminologies that enhance its complexity and allure. Among these, “Retired Out” and “Retired Hurt” often confuse fans but signify contrasting situations during a match.
“Retired Hurt” occurs when a batter cannot continue due to injury or illness. If the player recovers before their team’s innings concludes, they can resume batting. This is an involuntary action prompted by unforeseen circumstances, with the batter’s score marked as ‘retired hurt’.
In contrast, “Retired Out” is a deliberate choice by the batting team. When the team believes another batter could perform better, given the match situation, they may opt to retire a player. This strategic move, although rare, aims to boost the scoring rate or adapt to match conditions. Unlike ‘retired hurt,’ a player who retired out cannot return to bat.
Understanding these distinctions not only deepens one’s cricket knowledge but also unveils the strategic maneuvers employed by teams. So, the next time you tune into a cricket match, observe these scenarios closely to grasp the tactical intricacies of this captivating sport.
What is ‘Retired Out’?
‘Retired Out’ is a strategic decision made by the batting team. If the team believes that another batter could make a more significant contribution, given the game’s situation, they may opt to retire a batter. This occurrence is rare and is often viewed as a strategic maneuver to increase the scoring rate or adapt to the match conditions. Unlike ‘retired hurt’, a batter who is ‘retired out’ cannot return to the crease.
According to the ICC rules, a batter may retire during the innings when the ball is dead after informing the umpires. If a batter retires for reasons other than illness, injury, or unavoidable circumstances, their innings can only be resumed with the opposing captain’s consent. If the batter cannot continue their innings, they are considered retired out.
Notable Instances of ‘Retired Out’?
There have been several notable instances of players retiring in cricket history. For instance, Ravichandran Ashwin became the fourth batter to retire in cricket. The other three cricketers on the list are former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi, Bhutan’s Sonam Tobgay, and Bangladesh’s Sunzamul Islam.
During Pakistan’s tour of England, Shahid Afridi was the first player to retire from cricket while playing for Pakistanis against Northants in a tour match at the County Ground in Northampton in 20101. Bhutan’s Sonam Tobgay added his name to the unique list against the Maldives in a T20 international match in 2019, while Cumilla Warriors’ Sunzamul Islam retired out against Chattogram Challengers in the Bangladesh Premier League in the same year.
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What is ‘Retired Hurt’?
‘Retired Hurt’ occurs when a batter cannot continue their innings due to an injury or illness. In such cases, the batter can return to the crease if they recover before the end of their team’s innings. This is a forced move due to unforeseen circumstances, and the batter’s score is marked as ‘retired hurt’.
According to the Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) laws of cricket, a batter is deemed retired hurt or absent hurt if they are unable to continue their innings because of illness, injury, or any other unavoidable cause. Consultation with the on-field umpire is required before being granted permission to withdraw from their innings.
Notable Instances of ‘Retired Hurt’
There have been several notable instances of players retiring hurt in cricket history. For instance, during a 2022 West Indies vs India T20I match, India cricket team captain Rohit Sharma made headlines when he retired hurt after facing just five deliveries. In the third T20I at Basseterre, Rohit opened the innings for India alongside Suryakumar Yadav during their run chase of 165 runs in 20 overs.
After slamming a four and a six in his first four balls, the Indian captain appeared to have pulled a muscle near his waist or lower back. Upon discussion with the physio Kamlesh Jain, Rohit Sharma walked back to the pavilion while grabbing his lower back.
Ending Lines
Understanding the term ‘Retired Out’ not only enriches one’s knowledge of cricket but also provides deeper insights into the strategies employed by teams during a match. It’s a testament to the tactical depth of cricket and the strategic decisions that can influence the outcome of a game. So, the next time you watch a cricket match, pay attention to these aspects.
Similarly, comprehending the term ‘Retired Hurt’ not only enriches one’s knowledge of cricket but also provides deeper insights into the strategies employed by teams during a match. It’s a testament to the tactical depth of cricket and the strategic decisions that can influence the outcome of a game. So, the next time you watch a cricket match, observe these scenarios closely to understand the tactical intricacies of the sport. For more interesting cricket knowledge, visit and follow our website, T20cricketworldcup.info.
FAQs for Difference Between Retired Out and Retired Hurt in Cricket
What Does “Retired Out” Mean in Cricket?
“Retired Out” is a tactical substitution where a batting side can replace a batter if they believe someone else can perform better for the team, considering the game situation. A batter cannot return to the crease once retired.
What Does “Retired Hurt” Mean in Cricket?
“Retired Hurt” occurs when a batter is unable to continue batting due to injury or illness. A batter is labeled retired hurt or absent hurt after consulting with on-field umpires.
Can a “Retired Hurt” Batter Return to the Game?
Yes, a “Retired Hurt” batter can return to the crease if they recover before their team’s innings end. However, a retired hurt batter can only resume their innings at the fall of a wicket or the retirement of another batter in their team.
Can a “Retired Out” Batter Return to the Game?
No, a batter cannot return to the crease once retired out.
What is the Main Difference Between “Retired Hurt” and “Retired Out” in Cricket?
While a “Retired Hurt” batter is provisionally allowed to bat again during their team’s innings across any format, a “Retired Out” batter is considered out under the Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) laws of cricket.