Learn About Cricket Umpire Signals

Recognising Cricket Umpire Indications
Cricket is a complicated sport because of its many rules and regulations, not because of how it is played. The umpire, who upholds the spirit of the game, makes sure certain regulations are adhered to. Unlike football officials, cricket umpires are held in great regard. This is a summary of the key signs that cricket umpires use throughout games.

Out
When a batsman is removed in any one of ten methods, the out signal is used. An out is signalled by the umpire raising their index finger. The umpire will only indicate out for LBW, caught behind, and obstructing the field upon appeal from the bowling team.

No-Ball
When a bowler throws the ball above the waist without bouncing off it or oversteps the crease, it is called a no-ball. The umpire holds one arm horizontally to indicate a no-ball. No-balls do not count as one of the six deliveries in an over, but they do provide the batting team with an extra run.

Free-Hit
In restricted formats, the batsman can hit without worrying about most dismissals after a no-ball is given, which is known as a free hit. The umpire circles his arm over his head to indicate a free hit.

Wide Ball
An illegal delivery that is bowled beyond the batsman's reach is called a wide ball. The umpire gives a wide signal by horizontally spreading both hands. The batting team's total increases by one run when a wide ball is hit.

Six and Four Runs
A four is indicated when the ball crosses the boundary after bouncing, and the player waves their arm across their chest. Raising both arms vertically after the ball crosses the boundary without bouncing is the signal for a six.

Byes and Leg Byes 
Byes are runs scored with one palm raised above the head and are indicated when the ball strikes the bat or the batsman's body. Leg byes are similar signals given when a run is scored off the batsman's body.

Dead Ball
When there are disruptions before the ball is bowled, a dead ball is declared. This is indicated by crossing and uncrossing the wrists below the waist.

Short Run
The umpire will touch his shoulder to indicate a short run if a hitter does not run the entire distance.