What is the term used for a batsman getting out without scoring any runs?

In cricket, when a batsman gets out without scoring any runs, it is commonly referred to as a "duck." The term "duck" is a colloquialism used to describe the score of zero. It is derived from the notion that the number "0" resembles the shape of a duck's egg.

When a batsman is dismissed without scoring, it is often disappointing for both the player and the team. A duck signifies a lack of contribution from the batsman in terms of runs, and it can have a significant impact on the team's overall score and momentum.

A duck can be recorded in various ways, depending on the mode of dismissal. The most common methods of getting out for a duck are:

Bowled: When the bowler's delivery hits the stumps and dislodges the bails, resulting in the batsman being declared out. If this happens on the very first ball the batsman faces, it is known as a "golden duck."

Caught: When a fielder catches the ball directly from the batsman's shot before it touches the ground.

LBW (Leg Before Wicket): When the ball strikes the batsman's leg in front of the wicket, and the umpire determines that the ball would have gone on to hit the stumps. If the batsman is given out without scoring, it is referred to as a "golden duck" as well.

Run Out: When a fielder successfully hits the stumps with the ball before the batsman reaches the crease, resulting in the batsman being run out.

While a duck may be disappointing for the batsman, it is not uncommon for even the best players to experience it at some point in their careers. Ducks are considered a part of the game and are often used as a statistical measure to evaluate a player's performance. However, many players strive to avoid ducks and aim to contribute runs consistently to their team's total.

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