OBSTRUCT FIELD Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "obstruct field" refers to a term commonly used in the game of cricket. It signifies a specific action where a fielder deliberately obstructs or hinders the progress of a batsman while attempting to run between the wickets in order to score a run. This action is considered a violation of the laws of cricket.
When a batsman hits the ball and attempts to run, the fielding side aims to dismiss the batsman by either catching the ball before it touches the ground or by hitting the wicket with the ball. However, if a fielder intentionally gets in the way of the batsman in an effort to impede their run, it is known as obstructing the field. This can be done by blocking the batsman's path, interfering with the ball by hand or other means, or preventing the batsman from running freely.
Obstructing the field is considered a serious offense in cricket. The umpire has the authority to award a penalty to the batting side in the form of penalty runs or even declare the batsman out, depending on the severity of the obstruction. The main objective behind this rule is to ensure fair gameplay and prevent teams from gaining an unfair advantage by deliberately obstructing the batsman's progress.
In conclusion, obstructing the field in cricket refers to a deliberate act by a fielder to hinder the batsman's attempt to score runs by impeding their path or interfering with the ball, resulting in penalties to the fielding side.
Etymology of OBSTRUCT FIELD
The term "obstruct field" does not have a direct etymology as it appears to be a combination of two unrelated words: "obstruct" and "field".
The word "obstruct" comes from the Latin "obstruere", which is a combination of "ob-" (meaning "against" or "in the way") and "struere" (meaning "to build" or "to pile up"). "Obstruct" initially referred to physically blocking or preventing movement, but its usage expanded to describe any hindrance or impediment.
On the other hand, the word "field" has an Old English origin and is derived from the Germanic word "feld". Initially, it referred to an open expanse of land used for cultivating crops or grazing livestock.
