In
cricket, a runner is a team member who runs between the
wickets
for an injured
batsman.
When a runner is used, the batsman stands in position and plays shots as
normal, but does not attempt to run between the wickets, and the runner runs in
his stead. The runner occupies the injured batsman's
crease when he is on strike, but takes up a position away from the
pitch
at the umpire's discretion, usually in the vicinity of square leg.
When the injured batsman moves off strike, he then takes up the position near
the
square leg
umpire (not at the bowler's end), and the runner stands next to the bowler's
wicket as in the normal course of play.
- A runner can only be used if the batsman is incapacitated during the game
and not as result of a pre-existing injury.
- His use must meet the approval of the umpires.
- The runner must be a member of the batting side, but not the
twelfth man.
- He must also have already have batted in the innings, if possible.
- The runner carries a bat, and must wear the same protective equipment as the
batsman he running for.
If either the injured batsman or his runner is out of his ground, the
batsman is liable be to
run out or
stumped. The runner is also subject to other laws such as
obstructing the field and
handling the ball.
