# take guard

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/take-guard
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

(For a new batsman, with help from the umpire) to mark a point on the popping crease in front of his wicket so that he knows where it is behind him; to guard.

## Examples

- The new batsman walked out to take guard.
- Before facing his first ball, the nervous young player asked the umpire to help him take guard.
- Arriving at the crease with the game hanging in the balance, the seasoned opener calmly took guard, marking his stance with precision before the bowler began his run-up.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.