Cricket has changed over the years and the rules have also changed. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which is the rule-maker for the game, has proposed a new rule in the Test format or multi-day format of the game, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also accepted the proposal.
The MCC proposed that the last over of the day would have to be completed regardless of whether any wickets fell during that particular over. It is one of the proposed changes to the playing conditions made by the game’s law makers. According to a Cricbuzz report, the MCC had written a letter in which it was mentioned about the change in the rules of bowling the entire last over when the wicket falls.
MCC has proposed new changes in the rules for Test cricket.
Previously, during the final over of the multi-day format or in Test cricket, if a wicket fell, stumps were called immediately, and the day’s play ended, no matter how many balls were left. The batting team got the advantage of not sending a new batsman.
This will not happen as per the clause (12.5.2) related to the implementation of the new rule, “The last over of the day’s play will now be completed, even if no wicket falls during this period.”
The MCC also says it is, “Significant change for multi-day cricket. Prevents batting teams from avoiding sending in a new batsman at the end of the day.” Of course, this playing situation pertains to the multi-day (red-ball) format.
The BCCI has not yet shared its views on the statement of proposed changes to the playing conditions, but they have sent a note titled Summary of Changes to the Playing Conditions for 2026-27 to all state cricket associations.
It added, “Whatever changes come into force in the 2026 edition (fourth edition of the 2017 Code of Laws), all gender language (he/she, she/him etc.), other relevant changes as discussed in the BCCI are being incorporated while drafting this year’s playing conditions.”
As per Cricbuzz report, it has happened
Many more to follow….