Whether you're a seasoned fan at Lord's or new to the drama of an Ashes series, the umpire's signals can sometimes feel like a secret language. Understanding these gestures is key to fully appreciating the ebb and flow of a Test match, especially when following the aggressive Test cricket approach of the current England side under Brendon McCullum. This guide will decode every signal, so the next time Ben Stokes raises a finger or the umpire taps his shoulder, you'll know exactly what's happening.
Out
The most decisive signal in cricket. The umpire raises one index finger above their head to indicate a batter is dismissed. This can be for a variety of dismissals like bowled, caught, or LBW. It's the signal every bowler, from James Anderson to a young debutant, wants to see.Four
A simple, classic signal. The umpire extends one arm out to the side, waving it from the elbow in a horizontal arc towards the ground. This indicates the ball has hit the boundary rope after touching the ground, awarding the batting team four runs. A common sight when Joe Root is playing one of his elegant cover drives.Six
The most exciting signal for batters and fans. The umpire raises both arms straight above their head. This signals the ball has cleared the boundary rope on the full, without bouncing, awarding six runs. Think of Jonny Bairstow launching one into the stands.Bye
The umpire raises one open hand above their head. This signals that runs have been scored (byes) without the batter hitting the ball with their bat or body. These are added as extras to the team total and are the responsibility of the wicketkeeper.Leg Bye
The umpire taps a raised knee with their hand. This indicates runs have been scored (leg byes) after the ball hit the batter's body or protective gear, but not the bat. Like byes, these are extras, but they are only awarded if the umpire deems the batter attempted a shot.Wide
The umpire stretches both arms out horizontally to the sides. This signals a delivery was too far from the batter to be reasonably hit, awarding one run to the batting team. The ball must also be re-bowled, adding pressure on the bowler.No Ball
The umpire extends one arm out horizontally. This signals an illegal delivery, most often for the bowler overstepping the front crease. It awards one run to the batting team and means the delivery is a "free hit" in limited-overs cricket, a rule that can dramatically change a game.Dead Ball
The umpire crosses and uncrosses their wrists below the waist. This signal nullifies the delivery, meaning no runs can be scored and no batter can be dismissed from it. It’s used for various interruptions, like a ball becoming lodged in a batter's clothing.Short Run
The umpire taps their near shoulder with their fingertips. This indicates the batters failed to properly ground their bat or person behind the popping crease when completing a run. The run is therefore not counted, a frustrating moment for any England batter like Ollie Pope sprinting between the wickets.TV Replay
The umpire forms a square with their hands by touching thumbs and index fingers. This signals they are referring a decision to the third umpire for review via television technology, often for close catches or run-outs in crucial moments.Five Penalty Runs (to the Batting Team)
The umpire places one hand on the opposite shoulder. This awards five penalty runs to the batting team for an infringement by the fielding side, such as the ball hitting a helmet left on the ground.Five Penalty Runs (to the Fielding Team)
The umpire raises an open hand above their head. This awards five penalty runs to the fielding team, usually for the batting side unfairly damaging the pitch or for deliberate short runs.Revoke Last Signal
The umpire crosses both arms across the chest and then uncrosses them. This rare signal cancels the previous signal, usually after a mistake or a change of mind following a consultation with the other umpire.New Ball
The umpire raises the ball above their head. In Test cricket, this signals that the fielding captain has taken the option to claim a new, harder ball, usually after 80 overs. This can revitalise a bowling attack.Last Hour
The umpire points to their wristwatch. Exclusive to Test matches, this signals the commencement of the mandatory last hour of play on the final day, setting up a potential thrilling finish to a match.Powerplay
The umpire sweeps one arm in a circular motion above their head. Used in limited-overs cricket, it signals a period of fielding restrictions. While not used in Test cricket, it's a key part of the white-ball game managed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).One Run
A simple signal often missed. The umpire raises one arm upwards with the index finger extended. This is used to signal a single run, though often umpires will just call out the score.Two Runs
The umpire raises the index and middle fingers of one hand. This signals two runs have been completed, a common outcome when players like Stuart Broad and James Anderson are scampering between the wickets.Three Runs
The umpire raises the index, middle, and ring fingers of one hand. This signals three runs have been completed, a tiring effort that requires excellent running between the wickets.Penalty Run (One)
The umpire taps one shoulder with the opposite hand. This awards one penalty run for specific minor offences, such as the fielding side unfairly slowing down play.Signal to Scorers
The umpire will often raise a closed fist with the thumb pointed upwards. This isn't a decision signal but a confirmation to the scorers that they have seen the previous signal and the score should be recorded.Mastering these signals will deepen your understanding of every session of play. From the tension of a potential Ben Stokes declaration to the precision of a James Anderson spell, the umpire's language tells the story of the game. Now you're equipped to follow every nuance, whether you're watching a tense Ashes series battle or a domestic Test match at the Home of Cricket.
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