What is a Duck in Cricket? Types of Ducks – from Golden Duck to Platinum

In cricket, a duck is a term used to describe a batsman who is dismissed without scoring a single run. The name is believed to have originated from the number zero (0) in a scorebook, which was said to resemble a duck’s egg. While all ducks are unwanted, the term has evolved to include a wide range of types, each with its own specific meaning and level of ignominy.

Different Types of Ducks

While any dismissal for zero runs can be referred to as a duck, a rich vocabulary has developed over the years to describe the exact circumstances of the dismissal. This lexicon allows commentators and fans to quickly convey the exact moment of a batsman’s failure.

The Most Common and Infamous Ducks

The most well-known type of duck is the golden duck. This occurs when a batsman is dismissed on the very first new ball they face in their innings. It is arguably the most embarrassing dismissal, symbolizing an instant and complete failure to contribute.

Following this, the terms silver duck and bronze duck are used for dismissals for zero runs on the second and third balls faced, respectively. While these are less common in modern commentary, they remain part of cricket’s unique terminology.

Rare and Noteworthy Ducks

Beyond the basics, several other types of ducks are tied to specific and often unusual circumstances. A diamond duck is when a batsman is dismissed for zero runs without even facing a single ball. This can happen if a non-striker is run out or if a batsman is given out for being timed out before they can take their guard at the crease.

Another rare term is the platinum duck or royal duck, which occurs when a batsman is dismissed on the first ball of the team’s entire innings. This is particularly unfortunate, as it signifies a bad start for both the individual and the team.

The Ultimate Humiliation: Pairs in Cricket

In multi-innings matches like Test cricket, a batsman has two opportunities to score. A batsman who is dismissed for a duck in both innings is said to have made a pair. This is a significant statistical milestone of failure.

The phrase is believed to have originated because the two zeros (00) in the scorebook looked like a pair of spectacles. The most ignominious dismissal of all is the King Pair, which occurs when a batsman is out for a golden duck in both innings. This means they were dismissed on the very first ball they faced in both their first and second turns at the crease.

The Duck’s Enduring Legacy

The term “duck” and its many variations have become a fundamental part of cricket’s identity. From the most common golden duck to the extremely rare titanium duck (a duck on the first ball of the team’s innings without facing a delivery), each term adds a layer of character to the sport.

While a batsman’s ultimate goal is to avoid these zero-score dismissals, they have cemented their place in the game’s rich and storied history.