Cricket Set for Major Boundary Catch Rule Change as ICC and MCC Tighten Laws from 2026

A significant change is on the horizon for cricket’s boundary catch rules, as the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) prepare to implement a new law in October 2026. The updated regulation will put an end to the controversial ‘bunny-hop’ catches, where fielders leap from beyond the boundary to touch the ball mid-air. While dramatic catches have thrilled fans in recent years, concerns over fairness have prompted this revision.

The rule will continue to allow remarkable performances in which a fielder can parry the ball, step out of play, and dive back in to finish a catch while starting inside the boundary. But according to the present regulations, a fielder must land entirely inside the boundary in order for the catch to be considered if they make touch with the ball while jumping from outside the field of play. A boundary reward will be given for any additional contact with the ground outside the ropes.

According to the MCC, this adjustment addresses growing unease among audiences about catches perceived as bending the spirit of the game. Under current regulations, a catch is invalid only if the fielder is grounded while touching both the ball and an area beyond the boundary. The revised wording aims to make these scenarios clearer and fairer.

The new law allows a fielder one airborne touch of the ball after leaving the field of play. Beyond that, any further interaction during the same delivery demands that the fielder remains fully inside the boundary. Even if the ball is flicked to a teammate or tossed back into play, a fielder stepping or landing outside will see a boundary signalled.

As early as next week, the revised regulation, 19.5.2, will be included in the ICC’s playing conditions. Formal enforcement will begin in October 2026. The 2023 Big Bash League catch by Michael Neser and the 2025 Indian Premier League catch by Dewald Brevis for the Chennai Super Kings would not be subject to these restrictions. By removing controversial instances that conflate genius with breaking the rules, this modification seeks to maintain stunning boundary fielding.