Introduction

One of MCC’s most important roles, which it has carried out since the Club’s formation in 1787, is its custodianship of the Laws of Cricket.

Although the International Cricket Council is the global Governing Body for cricket, it still relies on MCC to write and interpret the Laws of Cricket, which are applicable from the village green to the Test arena.

On 1st October 2010, a new edition of the Laws of Cricket came into force. This edition, known as the 2000 Code 4th Edition – 2010, is displayed on this website and is the most up to date version, for use in all competitions.

The 4th Edition does contain some significant changes from the 3rd Edition. MCC has produced video clips which explain the major changes – these can be viewed here.

Alternatively, a document highlighting the changes can be viewed here (357 KB) .

MCC’s Open Learning Manual is a comprehensive guide for umpires and students of the Laws who want to gain a better understanding of the Laws and their application.

Additionally, there is a comprehensive Question & Answer section, which provides many interpretations on some of the more complicated areas of the Laws.

Spirit of Cricket

Since the introduction of the 2000 Code, the Spirit of Cricket Preamble has been an important feature, providing the context in which the game is intended to be played.

Learn more about the Spirit of Cricket and MCC’s initiatives to promote it.

^{The players, umpires and scorers in a game of cricket may be of either gender and the Laws apply equally to both.}

^{The use, throughout the text, of pronouns indicating the male gender is purely for brevity. Except where specifically stated otherwise, every provision of the Laws is to be read as applying to women & girls equally as to men and boys.}

© Marylebone Cricket Club 2011