EXTRA COVER: It's in the rules...

Law 27: Obstructing the field.

Rarely employed, this law - qualified by the word "wilful" - exists largely so a batsman cannot barge over a fielder in order to prevent a run-out, knock him down in the execution of a catch, or even shout "Let's see you catch that one, sunshine" since it also defines distraction "by word or action" as equivalent to obstruction.

It might be worth an appeal next time Dermot Reeve indulges in the bat-throwing tactic he employed last week against Hampshire. By dropping the bat as he kicked the ball away with his left pad, Reeve immunised himself against being caught off the glove.

Rajesh Maru complained the tactic was unfair because it distracted silly point, who stepped away, unsure that Reeve's bat would not hit him. It was definitely wilful and arguably obstruction.