Cricket, a sport known for its rich terminology, has its own unique way of describing the dismissal of batsmen without scoring any runs. Referred to as “ducks,” these dismissals add an element of humor and intrigue to the game. Let’s delve into the world of ducks and explore the eight different types commonly associated with this peculiar phenomenon.
1. Golden Duck:
The golden duck is perhaps the most infamous type of duck in cricket. It occurs when a batsman is dismissed on the very first ball they face in an innings, without managing to score a single run. It’s a frustrating start for any player and often serves as a morale booster for the opposition.
2. Silver Duck:
Similar to the golden duck, a silver duck refers to a dismissal where a batsman is out without facing a delivery. This can happen if the non-striking batsman gets run out on the previous ball. It’s a rare and unfortunate occurrence, leaving the batsman without an opportunity to make an impact.
3. Diamond Duck:
The diamond duck is a peculiar type of duck, representing a batsman who is dismissed without facing a single ball. This happens when the non-striker is run out from the bowler’s end on the very first ball of an innings. It’s a rare and unexpected dismissal that can catch players off guard.
4. Quack:
When a batsman suffers the ignominy of being dismissed without scoring in both innings of a Test match, it is commonly referred to as a pair or a quack. This type of duck highlights a lack of contribution by the batsman across the entire match, a stat they would undoubtedly want to forget.
5. King Pair:
The king pair is a special type of duck that occurs when a batsman is dismissed for a golden duck in both innings of a Test match. It’s an unfortunate outcome, symbolizing a lack of success and impact in the game.
6. Royal Duck:
The royal duck is associated with a dismissal where a batsman fails to score a run in the very first over of an innings. It highlights the early setback suffered by the team, often creating a buzz of excitement for the bowler and the opposition.
7. Laughing Duck:
Cricket enthusiasts sometimes use the term “laughing duck” when a batsman is dismissed without scoring, resulting in a light-hearted moment of amusement for fans. It adds a touch of humor to the game and creates a memorable moment on the field.
8. Selfie Duck:
The selfie duck represents a dismissal resulting from an unnecessary and extravagant shot attempted by the batsman. It often leads to their downfall without contributing any runs. This type of duck highlights the risks and consequences of playing flamboyant shots without caution.
