(Web Desk) - The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has introduced several changes to the Laws of Cricket, including a significant amendment related to the end of play in Test matches.
According to the new edition of the Laws of Cricket released on Tuesday, play will no longer end if a wicket falls in the final over of the day in a Test match. Instead, a new batter will come in and take strike to complete the over.
The MCC’s Laws Sub-Committee said the primary purpose of this change is to maintain balance between batting and bowling sides and preserve excitement in the match.
Explaining the amendment to Law 12.5.2, the MCC said that previously, if the fielding side took a wicket in the final over, the batting side did not send in a new batter, which felt unfair.
Stopping play at a time when conditions favor the bowling side and resuming the over the next day also reduced the contest’s intensity.
Under the revised law, the final over of the day must now be completed.
In addition, the MCC has introduced 73 other law changes, including amendments related to hit-wicket and overthrows. These changes will come into effect from October 1, 2026.