When Batters Bow Out: Decoding ‘Retired Hurt’ vs ‘Retired Out’ in Cricket

In cricket, 'retired hurt' (or retired – not out) occurs when a batsman retires from batting due to injury or illness. It is a compulsory, medical decision—not a dismissal—and the player can bat again later in the innings if capable and if their team has not lost all wickets. Statistically, they are considered 'not out' and their innings is deferred, not ended. 'Retired out' is a tactical choice: a batsman voluntarily exits the field for reasons other than injury, usually to let a more suitable teammate bat. In this case, the player's innings is over—they cannot return unless the opposing captain agrees. This is recorded as a dismissal for statistical purposes, but not credited to a bowler Source: Times of India, Olympics.com, Wikipedia