DDCA Hosts MCC Laws of Cricket Workshop in Delhi
DDCA holds an MCC workshop in Delhi to prepare umpires for the new Laws of Cricket arriving in 2026. Learn about the major rule changes here.
The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) recently organized a specialized MCC Laws of Cricket Workshop in New Delhi. This crucial session was designed to prepare the association's umpires and officials for the upcoming changes to the game, as the New Laws of Cricket are set to officially take effect on October 1, 2026.
The workshop was led by experts from the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the global custodians of the game's rules. The session featured Fraser Stewart, MCC's Head of Cricket, and Jonny Singer, who guided participants through the new regulations using practical video demonstrations and interactive Q&A sessions.
New MCC Laws of Cricket App Launched in Hindi
In a significant move to increase accessibility within the Indian cricket ecosystem, the MCC launched its new Laws of Cricket app during the event. A major highlight is that the app is now available in Hindi, alongside other regional languages such as Urdu, Bengali, and Kannada. This initiative aims to ensure that officials, fans, and viewers across India can easily understand and follow the rules of the sport.
Fraser Stewart expressed his excitement about the Delhi visit, noting that the practical nature of the session helped umpires understand how the new changes will apply directly on the field. He emphasized that making the laws available in Hindi will help everyone who deeply loves the sport in India.
Major Rule Changes Coming in 2026
The workshop provided a deep dive into the significant updates that will reshape the game. Some of the key changes include:
- Standardised Equipment: New, stricter size and weight tolerances have been introduced for cricket balls, specifically for women's and junior cricket, with standardised categories for Size 1, 2, and 3.
- Laminated Bats: Type D laminated bats will now be permitted in most adult and open-age cricket, depending on specific governing body regulations.
- Completion of the Final Over: To ensure game flow, the final over of a day must be completed even if a wicket falls, provided the playing conditions remain suitable.
- Running and Boundary Rules: Batters will no longer be penalized for abandoning a run unless the short running is deemed deliberate. Additionally, the "bunny hop" technique for boundary catches has been removed.
- Clarity on Dismissals: The new laws provide much clearer definitions regarding overthrows, "dead balls," and when a ball is considered "finally settled." There is also enhanced guidance on wicketkeeper positioning, hit wickets, run-outs, and stumpings.
Strengthening Officiating Standards
Shyam Sharma, Director of the DDCA, highlighted the importance of this initiative, thanking DDCA President Rohan Jaitley for supporting the MCC program. He noted that such engagements are vital for helping local umpires align themselves with global officiating standards.
The Delhi workshop is part of a larger MCC tour of India. Following the Delhi session, the MCC team is scheduled to hold similar engagements in other major cricketing hubs, including Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.