Short run rule
Short answer: Under Law 18.3, a run does not count if a batter fails to make good their ground at either end. Deliberate short runs can trigger penalties and may invalidate all runs from the ball.
Relevant laws
- Law 18 (Scoring runs): Law 18.3 covers short runs.
- Law 41 (Unfair play): penalties for deliberate short running.
Format considerations
- Limited-overs competitions may apply specific penalties or referrals for deliberate short runs.
- TV umpire can assist on referral where allowed.
Edge cases
- One batter short, one complete: only valid runs where both make ground count.
- Deliberate short run: all runs may be disallowed; penalty runs may be added per conditions.
- Boundary after short run attempt: runs scored are capped by the boundary allowance; deliberate short run still penalized.
Reminder
Signal and communicate any short run clearly to scorers. Note deliberate intent where applicable.
Related articles
FAQs
Does a short run cancel all runs?
Only the run where ground was not made is cancelled, unless deliberate—then all runs may be cancelled and penalties applied.
Can the TV umpire review a short run?
Only if competition playing conditions allow referrals for short runs.