Appeal
An appeal in cricket is a request made by the fielding team to the umpire to declare a batsman out. The appeal is typically made when the fielding side believes that the batsman has violated the rules of the game, such as being out bowled, caught, leg before wicket (LBW), or stumped.
Characteristics
– Verbal Request: The appeal is usually made verbally, with players shouting “How’s that?” or “Hawkeye!” to draw the umpire’s attention.
– Umpire’s Decision: The umpire has the authority to accept or reject the appeal based on their judgment of the situation.
– Timing: An appeal must be made before the next delivery is bowled; otherwise, it is considered invalid.
– Team Responsibility: It is the responsibility of the fielding team to make the appeal; the umpire does not call for an out unless appealed to.
Examples
– A bowler delivers a ball that strikes the batsman’s leg in front of the stumps, and the fielding team appeals for LBW.
– A fielder catches the ball after it has been hit by the batsman, and the team appeals for a catch out.
– A wicketkeeper notices that the batsman has stepped out of the crease and appeals for a stumping.
