Hit the ball twice, or "double-hit", is a method of dismissal in the sport of cricket. It is exceptionally rare at all levels of the game. The law was codified at the very latest by 1744 and had likely been introduced earlier than that due to injuries and deaths occurring from double hit attempts in the 1600s and 1700s. The law prohibits a batter from making a second clear attempt to hit the ball after it has hit their bat or their person.