MCC Unveils Major Law Changes, Introduces 73 Changes As Cricket Set for Rule Shake-Up

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has introduced a wide-ranging revision to the Laws of Cricket, bringing in 73 notable changes aimed at modernising the game. Among the most significant updates is a new rule that ensures the final over of the day in multi-day cricket, including Test matches, will be completed even if a wicket falls during it.

The revised code will officially come into effect from October 1, 2026, subject to approval from the ICC for use in international playing conditions.

Under the previous interpretation, play could end immediately if a wicket fell during the last over of the day, allowing the incoming batter to avoid facing deliveries in often challenging conditions. The MCC has now removed this provision, stating that it gave

an undue advantage to the batting side while reducing the tension and excitement associated with late-day breakthroughs.

The governing body believes the updated rule will preserve the competitive balance and enhance drama, ensuring that the remaining deliveries of the over are bowled unless conditions become unsuitable.

Another key change involves equipment regulations, with laminated bats now permitted in adult recreational cricket. These bats, made by combining multiple pieces of wood, are expected to reduce manufacturing costs without offering any additional performance benefits.

The MCC hopes this move will make cricket more accessible, particularly at grassroots and club levels. Laminated bats were already approved for junior cricket in 2017, and national governing bodies will now decide the levels at which they are allowed in domestic competitions.

The MCC has also refined the Hit Wicket Law to provide clearer guidance. Batters will now be considered out if they lose balance after playing a shot and subsequently fall onto the stumps, as this is deemed part of their action in receiving the ball. However, if contact with a fielder causes the batter to collide with the stumps, they will not be dismissed under this rule. Additionally, if a detached piece of equipment hits another player before striking the wicket, the batter will not be given out.

Further clarity has been provided in distinguishing overthrows from misfields. Overthrows will now specifically refer to deliberate attempts to throw the ball at the stumps to prevent runs or attempt a run-out, while ordinary fielding errors will be classified separately.

The revised Laws also offer umpires greater discretion in determining when the ball is considered dead. The ball no longer needs to be in the bowler's or wicketkeeper's hands; it can be declared dead if held by any fielder or if it is stationary on the ground.

According to the MCC, the new code reflects cricket's evolving nature and aims to make the sport more inclusive and adaptable across all levels.