MCC Revamps Cricket Regulations with 73 New Law Changes: Mandatory Final Over and Elimination of ‘Bunny Hop Catch’
In a landmark update for the sport, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has unveiled 73 significant changes to the Laws of Cricket, marking the first major revision since 2022. These amendments, set to take effect in October, aim to modernize the rules and enhance clarity and inclusivity across all formats of the game. Among the notable changes is a new rule requiring the completion of the final over in multi-day matches, even if a wicket falls, a decision the MCC believes will maintain the excitement and competitive integrity of cricket.
Mandatory Completion of Final Over
One of the most impactful changes introduced by the MCC is the requirement that the final over of the day in multi-day matches must be completed, regardless of any wickets that may fall. The MCC argues that this rule is essential for preserving the drama of the game. Previously, if a wicket fell late in the day, the batting team could avoid sending a new batter to the crease, which often diminished the excitement of the closing moments. Under the new law, the over will be bowled in full as long as the playing conditions remain suitable, ensuring that the game retains its competitive edge until the very end of the day.
Clarifications on Wicketkeeper Positioning and New Ball Sizes
The MCC has also clarified the positioning of wicketkeepers. Under the revised rules, wicketkeepers will no longer face penalties for having their gloves marginally ahead of the stumps during the bowler’s run-up. The law now specifies that keepers must be fully behind the stumps only after the ball has been released, aligning their positioning with that of fielders. Additionally, the MCC has introduced new ball sizes for women’s and junior cricket, including Size 1, Size 2, and Size 3 balls. This change aims to create clearer categories tailored to different levels of play while maintaining the traditional Size 1 ball used in men’s cricket.
Changes to Fielding Rules and Equipment Regulations
Several other notable changes have been made to fielding rules. The MCC has removed the “bunny hop catch” rule, which previously allowed fielders to touch the ball while airborne beyond the boundary. Now, if a fielder touches the ball outside the boundary and then steps out again, it will be ruled a boundary. Furthermore, laminated bats, which are constructed by bonding multiple pieces of wood, are now permitted in open-age cricket. This decision is expected to help address the rising costs of cricket bats, although elite players are still anticipated to use traditional single-willow bats.
Defining Overthrows and Enhancing Game Authority
The MCC has also defined the term “overthrow” for the first time, clarifying that it refers specifically to a throw at the stumps aimed at preventing runs or attempting a run-out. Misfields near the boundary will no longer be classified as overthrows. Additionally, the fielding captain will have expanded authority in cases of deliberate short running, allowing them to decide which batter faces the next ball. Another significant change is that the ball will now be considered “finally settled” sooner, as it will be deemed settled when held by any fielder or stationary on the ground, rather than needing to be in the hands of the bowler or wicketkeeper. These revisions were developed through consultations at the MCC’s World Cricket Connects forum, incorporating feedback from current and former players as well as equipment manufacturers.
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