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LAW 40 THE WICKET-KEEPER
5. Restriction on actions of wicket-keeper
6. Interference with wicket-keeper by striker
The wicket-keeper is the only member of the fielding side permitted to wear
gloves and external leg guards. If he does so, these are to be regarded as part of
his person for the purposes of Law 41.2 (Fielding the ball). If by his actions and
positioning it is apparent to the umpires that he will not be able to discharge his
duties as a wicket-keeper, he shall forfeit this right and also the right to be
recognised as a wicket-keeper for the purposes of Laws 32.3 (A fair catch), 39
(Stumped), 41.1 (Protective equipment), 41.5 (Limitation of on side fielders) and
41.6 (Fielders not to encroach on the pitch).
If the wicket-keeper wears gloves as permitted under 1 above, they shall have no
webbing between fingers except that a single piece of flat non-stretch material
may be inserted between index finger and thumb solely as a means of support.
This insert shall not form a pouch when the hand is extended. See Appendix C.
The wicket-keeper shall remain wholly behind the wicket at the striker’s end from
the moment the ball comes into play until
(a) a ball delivered by the bowler
either (i) touches the bat or person of the striker
or (ii) passes the wicket at the striker’s end
or (b) the striker attempts a run.
In the event of the wicket-keeper contravening this Law, the umpire at the
striker’s end shall call and signal No ball as soon as possible after the delivery of
the ball.
It is unfair if a wicket-keeper standing back makes a significant movement
towards the wicket after the ball comes into play and before it reaches the striker.
In the event of such unfair movement by the wicket-keeper, either umpire shall
call and signal Dead ball. It will not be considered a significant movement if the
wicket-keeper moves a few paces forward for a slower delivery.
5. Restriction on actions of wicket-keeper
If the wicket-keeper interferes with the striker’s right to play the ball and to guard
his wicket, the striker shall not be out, except under Laws 33 (Handled the ball),
34 (Hit the ball twice), 37 (Obstructing the field) or 38 (Run out).
6. Interference with wicket-keeper by striker
If, in playing at the ball or in the legitimate defence of his wicket, the striker
interferes with the wicket-keeper, he shall not be out, except as provided for in
Law 37.3 (Obstructing a ball from being caught).