Retired Hurt vs Retired Out In Cricket: India’s star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was seriously injured on his leg while playing the Manchester Test against England and retired hurt, leaving the field. The situation has raised a query on the difference between retired hurt and retired out in cricket. Here is an elaborate description so that you can understand the two terms well.
What is Retired Hurt in Cricket?
A player is said to be retired hurt when he gets injured or is physically not in a position to go on batting in his innings. The batsman retires from the field but is not considered out.
Example: In the Manchester Test, Rishabh Pant attempted to reverse sweep Chris Woakes. Unfortunately, the ball hit him right on the leg, and there was bleeding. He retired hurt from the field.
Is it allowed to bat again after being retired hurt?
Yes, it is possible if the player is physically fit and the opposition captain has no issue, then it is allowed to return on the crease. Rishabh Pant came back to bat after Shardul Thakur was dismissed by Ben Stokes. Pant also made a half-century later on while playing in his injured condition.
What is Retired Out in Cricket?
Retired out is a strategic act in which a batsman willingly departs the field in his innings, not hurt or injured in any way, and is counted as out. This is often encountered in T20 leagues such as the IPL for strategic purposes. The batsman is formally designated as “Retired Out” on the scoreboard.
Can a Batsman Bat Again After Retiring Out?
No, a retired-out batsman cannot come back and bat again in the same innings unless the other captain acquiesces, which is very uncommon.
Will Any Other Player Bat instead of Rishabh Pant?
No, Rishabh Pant’s injury does not permit any substitute batsman to play in his place. According to ICC regulations, substitutes are permitted only in the event of concussions, and even then, only with the consent of the opposing captain.
But, in the Manchester Test, Dhruv Jurel can assume wicketkeeping responsibilities, just like he did in the Lord’s Test when Pant got injured.
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Distinguishing Features: Retired Hurt vs Retired Out In Cricket
Feature Retired Hurt Retired Out
Cause Injury or fitness. Voluntary or strategic choice
Treated As Out? Yes
Can Bat Again? Yes, if fit and another batsman gets out. No, unless the opposing captain permits
Replacement Permitted? Only if concussion (with permission) No
Example Rishabh Pant vs England (Manchester Test). Witnessed in IPL by teams such as RR and RCB
The Rishabh Pant incident has thrown light on the important distinction between retired hurt and retired out. One is the result of actual injury and enables a return, while the other is a strategic departure that is counted as a dismissal. It is an important distinction for cricket followers and experts to know.
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