MCC Tightens Rules on Boundary Catches: What Cricket Fans Need to Know

Cricket’s fielding dynamics are evolving with new regulations from the MCC. These changes specifically address boundary catches, where fielders often perform acrobatic feats near the edge of the field. The revised rules, prompted by incidents like Michael Neser’s controversial catch in the 2023-24 BBL, limit fielders outside the boundary to one airborne contact with the ball. The fielder must then re-enter the field to complete the catch. Relay catches are also affected; if the assisting fielder is outside the boundary when the catch is taken, a boundary is awarded to the batting team. The changes, set to be adopted by the ICC and MCC, aim to ensure clearer, fairer play in boundary-line situations, reducing grey areas and controversies.