New MCC law changes

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https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/articles/cyv5zv30418o

 

One interesting change which will become noticeable in multi-day matches is to Law 12.5.2 which is altered so that the final over of a day's play will not end if there is a wicket but will continue until the last over has been completed.

"This doesn't save time, which is the case at lunch and tea, as the remaining balls need to be made up the next day, and it takes the drama out of the game," the MCC said.

 

• The change to Law 19.5.2 law removes 'bunny hop' catches by allowing a fielder only one airborne touch after coming from outside the boundary, after which they must stay completely inside the boundary for the rest of the delivery or a boundary is scored.

 

• Law 27.3.1 now states the wicketkeeper's gloves can be in front of the stumps during the bowler's run-up, but they must be fully behind the stumps once the ball is released.

 

• A captain cannot declare the final innings of a match as per an addition to the wording in Laws 15.1 and 15.2.

 

• Clarification of a short run in Law 18.5.1 and 18.5.2 means batters can abandon a run without penalty if they simply change their mind and it's only illegal if the short run is deliberately deceptive. If it is deliberate, the fielding side is disadvantaged, and gets to choose which batter faces the next ball, removing any advantage for the batting side.

 

• Law 19.8 now clearly defines overthrows as intentional throws at the stumps, distinguishing them from ordinary misfields, which are not counted as overthrows.

 

• Law 20.1.1.1 now lets the umpire decide a ball is finally settled when it's stationary or in any fielder's hands - not just the bowler or wicket-keeper's hands - giving more flexibility in calling it dead.

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