Method of dismissal betting lets you wager on how a batsman will be dismissed — for example, caught, bowled or lbw — rather than which team will win. This market can appear as a standalone option or as part of other lines like first dismissal method betting or next dismissal betting, and it’s popular because outcomes are binary and resolved quickly during a match.
How the method of dismissal market works
In a typical cricket dismissal market a bookmaker offers a set of possible ways a wicket might fall and you back the option you think will occur. Markets are commonly offered as:
First dismissal method betting — predicts how the first wicket of an innings (or match, depending on the market) is taken.
Next dismissal betting — predicts the method of the next wicket to fall during play.
Mode-of-dismissal markets covering a specific batsman, over, or session in some formats.
When you place a bet the selection must match the ball on which the wicket falls. If no wicket falls during the time the market covers (for example, within the next over if that’s the market), most bookmakers void the bet and refund stakes — but rules vary, so always read the market rules before betting.
Common dismissal types explained
Bookmakers usually present a simplified list of dismissal methods. Here are the common terms and what they mean in plain language:
Caught — the batsman hits the ball and a fielder (including the wicketkeeper) catches it before it hits the ground. "Caught and bowled" (the bowler takes the catch) is usually treated as a caught dismissal.
Bowled — the ball hits the stumps and dislodges the bails, and the batsman is out bowled.
LBW (Leg Before Wicket) — the umpire rules the ball would have hit the stumps but was intercepted by the batsman’s pads or body.
Stumped — the wicketkeeper removes the bails while the batsman is out of his crease after missing the ball.
Run out — a fielder breaks the stumps while the batsmen are attempting a run and the batsman is out of his ground.
Hit wicket, handled the ball and other methods — less common dismissals that are sometimes grouped into "Other" depending on the bookmaker.
Some operators distinguish between "caught behind" (caught by the keeper) and "caught in the field," or they may lump all caught dismissals together. Check the market options so you know exactly what you’re backing.
First dismissal method betting vs next dismissal betting
Both markets ask for the mode of dismissal, but they cover different events:
First dismissal: settles on the very first wicket of an innings (or match, if specified). If play is interrupted before the first wicket falls and the market’s coverage period ends without a wicket, the bet may be void.
Next dismissal: applies to the very next wicket to fall from the moment the market is offered. After a wicket falls the market is settled and the next-dismissal market is usually re-offered for the subsequent wicket.
Because first-wicket markets are about a single event later in time, they can offer different pricing compared with next-wicket lines, which are immediate and often react fast to match conditions.
Settlement rules and special cases
Settlement can differ by bookmaker. Common points to check in the rules before placing a bet:
Does "caught" include "caught and bowled"? Many bookmakers treat them as the same, but some list them separately.
Are run-outs attributed to the fielder or to the bowler for settlement? Typically a run out is a separate category and not credited to the bowler, but operator rules vary.
How are rare dismissals like "obstructing the field" or "retired out" handled? These are often placed in an "Other" category or settled as non-occurring for specific markets.
What happens if play is abandoned or the innings ends without a wicket? Markets often include void conditions; confirm whether a refund applies.
Because definitions and settlement conditions vary, always read a bookmaker’s specific market rules. If anything is unclear, contact their customer support before staking money.
Practical considerations for bettors
Understanding pitch and bowler conditions helps inform a choice, but remember no selection guarantees a win. A few practical tips:
Check which dismissal types the bookmaker lists. Some combine similar outcomes while others break them into finer categories (e.g., "caught behind").
Watch for match context: aggressive batting increases chances of caught dismissals; spin-friendly pitches can increase lbw or stumping opportunities.
Look at the bowlers on strike. Fast bowlers tend to produce bowled and caught opportunities, while spinners may create more lbw and stumping chances.
On exchanges you may have the option to back or lay a dismissal type — this changes how you manage risk compared with fixed-odds betting.
Responsible betting
Betting carries financial risk. Only stake what you can afford to lose and set limits on time and money. If you feel betting is becoming a problem, seek help from reputable support organisations in your area.
Method of dismissal betting can add interest to a match by focusing attention on every delivery. It’s a compact market with clear outcomes, but because rules and categorizations vary between operators, check the market terms before placing a bet and treat it as entertainment rather than a way to make guaranteed money.