Britannica Sources used in this answer

How are runs scored by running between cricket wickets?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Jonny Bairstow of England, wearing a light blue uniform and helmet, batting during the 2019 Cricket World Cup semi-final against Australia, with two Australian fielders behind the stumps. — cricket Jonny Bairstow of England batting during a semifinal match against Australia at the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

In cricket, runs are scored when both batsmen successfully exchange places by running to the opposite end of the pitch.

After the striker hits the ball, they may attempt a run if they believe they can reach the opposite wicket before a fieldsman can retrieve the ball and break the wicket by dislodging the bails. To complete a run, both the striker and the nonstriker must make good their ground by touching their bat or body beyond the popping crease at the opposite end.12

If time permits, the batsmen may cross back and forth multiple times, with each successful exchange counting as an additional run. However, batsmen are not required to run after hitting the ball; they may choose to stay put if they judge it unsafe to attempt a run. If a batsman is caught out of their ground while the wicket is broken by the fielding side, they are dismissed via a "run out".123