MCC’s next update to the Laws of Cricket comes into effect on 1 October 2026. The changes include Law clarifications, equipment updates, inclusive language improvements, and practical points that umpires and scorers should begin reviewing ahead of the 2026/27 season.
This edition contains 73 material changes, along with broader language updates designed to make the Laws clearer, more inclusive, and better aligned with the modern game.
Why This Matters for the Game
Cricket continues to evolve at all levels, from junior and community cricket through to the professional game. The 2026 update is intended to ensure the Laws remain practical, fair, and easy to apply across different formats and playing environments. MCC has also continued its work to modernise the language of the Laws so that they reflect cricket as a game for everyone.
Five Areas Worth Noting
Equipment updates: Changes include new provisions relating to bats and balls, including the legalisation of laminated bats in open-age cricket and updated specifications for cricket balls used in different formats.
Close-of-play situations: In multi-day cricket, play will continue to complete an over if a wicket falls after the scheduled time for close of play and balls remain in that over.
Overthrows and misfields: The Laws include clearer definitions and guidance around overthrows and misfields, helping officials manage one of the more complex areas of match play.
Inclusive language: Gendered terms have been removed throughout the Laws, continuing MCC’s move toward language that reflects cricket as an inclusive sport.
General clarification: A few changes are designed to make existing Laws easier to understand and apply consistently.
What Officials Should Be Thinking About Now
For umpires, the changes provide an opportunity to refresh Law knowledge before the 2026/27 season begins. While not every change will affect every match, officials should be confident in identifying which Laws are relevant to local playing conditions and how those Laws should be applied in real match situations.
For scorers, the update is also important. Clear communication with umpires is essential, particularly where Law changes affect runs, dismissals, overthrows, interruptions, or end-of-day play. Scorers are encouraged to review the relevant material and ask questions early so that everyone starts the season with a shared understanding.
