Law 37 (Obstructing the Field)

1. Out Obstructing the field  Either batsman is out Obstructing the field if he willfully obstructs or distracts the opposing side by word or action. It shall be regarded as obstruction if either batsman willfully, and without the consent of the fielding side, strikes the ball with his bat or person, other than a hand not holding the bat, after the ball has touched a fielder. See 4 below. 2. Accidental obstruction  It is for either umpire to decide whether any obstruction or distraction is willful or not. He shall consult the other umpire if he has any doubt. 3. Obstructing a ball from being caught  The striker is out should willful obstruction or distraction by either batsman prevent a catch being made. This shall apply even though the striker causes the obstruction in lawfully guarding his wicket under the provisions of Law 34.3 (Ball lawfully struck more than once). 4. Returning the ball to a member of the fielding side  Either batsman is out under this Law if, without the consent of the fielding side and while the ball is in play, he uses his bat or person to return the ball to any member of that side. 5. Runs scored  If a batsman is dismissed under this Law, runs completed by the batsmen before the offence shall be scored, together with the penalty for a No ball or a Wide, if applicable. Other penalties that may be awarded to either side when the ball is dead shall also stand. See Law 42.17(b) (Penalty runs). If, however, the obstruction prevents a catch from being made, runs completed by the batsmen before the offence shall not be scored, but other penalties that may be awarded to either side when the ball is dead shall stand. See Law 42.17(b) (Penalty runs). 6. Bowler does not get credit  The bowler does not get credit for the wicket.