Cricket is an ancient sport with complex rules and it has many parts which significantly contribute to the game. Stumps are one of the essential parts of cricket. These wooden poles are crucial pieces of Cricket and whether it is dismissals, run-outs, or “stumps being shattered” moments, they have a role to play. In this article, we will take a look at stumps meaning in cricket, their importance, and different cases where they are used during the game.
What are Stumps in Cricket?
Stumps comprise three vertical wooden posts installed at both ends of the cricket pitch forming a wicket.The stumps are placed vertically in a straight line and each one is topped by a bail. The stumps form the wicket together with bails and is placed at the center of the game and is crucial for the dismissals and score of the match.
Dimensions of Stumps
As per the regulations that govern cricket, stumps are supposed to be a standard size of:
- Height: 28 inches (71.12 cm)
- Width of the wicket (including stumps): 9 inches (22.86 cm)
- Diameter of each stump: Approximately 1.38 inches (3.5 cm)
- Material: Formerly constructed from timber, usually ash or willow
Importance of Stumps in Cricket
The stumps has a few uses within a cricketer’s game. Here are some which are certainly very important:
1. Formation of the wicket
Combining both the stumps and bails makes up the wicket which is the stumps’ primary purpose. It is the target which bowlers aim for to dismiss a batsman.
2. Used for a Dismissal
Some forms of dismissals are connected with the stumps, as illustrated below.
- Bowled: A batsman is out if the ball dislodges the stumps and Bails as it hits the stumps.
- Stumped: A batsman is stumped when he steps out of his crease and the wicketkeeper takes the bails off.
- Run-out: A batsman is said to be run-out when he is outside the crease to be and the fielders hit the stumps with the ball.
- Hit wicket: A batsman is said to be bowled out when he inadvertly hits the stumps with any part of his bat or body.
3. Technology Integration (LED Stumps)
Stumps are not as stark as they first were when modern games were introduced, now, stumps come equipped with LED lights illuminating them as soon as the bails are knocked off, which can be quite handy for umpires’ decisions during night matches.
Types of Stamps in Cricket
Different levels and formats of cricket have corresponding practices that include the use of stumps. The following list notes the primary differences:
1. Classic Wooden Stumps
- Their contruction is that of solid wooden timber. These are commonplace in professional competitions.
- Pros: Traditional, relaiable and durable.
- Cons: They do not have adequate features to enhance visibility.
2. LED Stumps
These are equipped with LED lights that go on whenever the bails are pulled off.
- Not uncommon in international competitions as they enhance visibility.
- Pros: Shifts visibility significantly in televised matches.
- Cons: Exorbitantly expensive, electronic dependant, need neclectance and care.
3. Spring Loaded Stumps
- These stumps are unique in design to aid in vertical movement – a strike to the stump means rising upon impact due to the internal spring.
- These are used mostly for training purposes.
- Pros: Lowers, or eliminates, the number of disruptions to drills.
- Cons: These do not work for competitions.
4. Portable Stumps
- Made from light plastic materials, these stumps can easily be moved around. • Good for overly casual matches.
- Pros: Easy to set up and inexpensive.
- Cons: Can easily break from being stepped on during professional games.
5. Plastic Stumps
- Roughened high quality plastic made these stumps sturdy against harsh weather conditions.
- Ideal for junior level and informal cricket.
- Pros: Greatly affordable and can endure all weather conditions.
- Cons: Does not stand the test of time unlike wooden stumps, making them a poor choice.
6. Metal Stumps
- Crafted from steel or aluminum, which gives them better longevity.
- Ideal for professional matches fitted with LED bails.
- Pros: Extremely durable and easily noticeable.
- Cons: Costlier and denser than wooden ones.
Famous Stump Moments in Cricket
Stumps have been at the heart of several famous moments in cricket, for instance;
- Shane Warne clean bowled Mike Gatting in the famous ‘Ball of the Century’ (1993).
- MS Dhoni’s famous quick-fire stumpings are another incredible sight to behold.
- MS Dhoni furiously shattered Pakistan’s hope of winning in the T20 World Cup 2007 Finals with his accurate throw.
Conclusion
Besides wooden poles, stumps in cricket can be viewed from numerous angles. They are the heart of the game, increase the excitement level of cricket, assist in dismissals, decision making, and more. From being bowled wickets and run outs to modern LED stumps, stumps have evolved as a vital part of the sport.
FAQ’s
Who many stumps are their in cricket?
There are three stumps at each end of the pitch, making a total of six on the field.
Who introduced LED stumps in cricket?
LED stumps were introduced by Bronty Schofield,an Australian innovator, and were first used in the Big Bash League.
What are stumps made of in cricket?
The traditional stumps were made of wood like ash or willow, but today’s stumps are more advanced and include versions made from LED with sensors.
Also read about: Types of Cricket Pitches: All You Need to Know
