Is a hit twice out possible?

Can a Batsman Be Out for Hitting the Ball Twice?

Yes, a batsman can be given out for hitting the ball twice in cricket—but only under specific conditions. It’s a rare dismissal and often misunderstood, but the laws are quite clear on when it applies.

According to Law 37 of the MCC Rules, the striker is out if they deliberately strike the ball a second time with their bat or body, except for a hand not holding the bat. The crucial word here is wilfully. Accidental contact doesn’t count. The key is intent. If a batsman hits the ball once and then, before any fielder has touched it, intentionally hits it again, they can be given out.

There are, however, important exceptions. A second strike is not out if it’s done solely to protect the wicket. For example, if the ball ricochets off the bat toward the stumps and the batsman blocks it with the bat a second time to avoid being bowled, that’s allowed. But if the second hit is to prevent a catch or deliberately deflect the ball away to take runs, that’s a different story—and likely grounds for dismissal.

Interestingly, this law doesn’t apply once a fielder has touched the ball. After contact by a fielder, the ball is fair game for normal play, and a second hit wouldn’t be penalized under this rule—though other laws might apply, like obstructing the field.

While it’s not a common sight, the "hit the ball twice" dismissal serves as a reminder of cricket’s nuance. It balances fair play with the need to prevent manipulation. So yes, it’s possible—but only when the action crosses the line from defensive instinct to deliberate interference.