What Just Happened?
On June 13, 2025, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), in coordination with the ICC, rolled out a new boundary‑line catch rule—effective from June 17 for international play, with full incorporation into MCC Laws by October 2026.
Why It Matters: No More “Bunny‑Hops”
For years, cricket fans have marvelled at athletic feats like Michael Neser’s famous “bunny‑hop” in BBL 2023—where a fielder taps the ball twice mid‑air outside the boundary and completes the catch inside. That’s now illegal.
Key change:
One touch only outside the rope; subsequent airborne contacts mean a boundary.
Fielder must land in-bounds upon completing the catch.
Relay catches: If one fielder tosses from outside, all must be inside when the catch is taken.
In‑Context Examples
Allowed: Touch within boundary → momentum carries fielder out → lands back in → completes catch.
Now banned: Touching outside and bouncing/tapping again before returning in.
Fairness, Clarity & Viewer Trust
The MCC flagged that bunny‑hops, while thrilling, felt “unfair to the majority” and lacked clarity. The updated rule aims to simplify interpretation for umpires and audiences.
Implications for Coaches & Fielders
Fielding coaches must update drills to:
Reinforce catch execution inside-in-out-inside
Practice single-touch discipline across boundary scenarios
Apply the same in relay drills: assist and catchers both in-bounds
When & Where It Applies
ICC playing conditions: from June 17, 2025 (coinciding with new WTC cycle)
Official MCC Laws: October 2026 overhaul
FAQs
What is a bunny-hop catch in cricket?
A bunny-hop catch is when a fielder jumps from inside the boundary, taps the ball in the air outside the field of play, and catches it after re-entering. This acrobatic move was legal until June 2025.
Why has MCC banned bunny-hop boundary catches?
MCC found that multiple airborne touches outside the boundary created unfair advantages and confusion. The rule was changed to promote fairness and clarity.
What is the new MCC rule for boundary catches?
From June 17, 2025, a fielder can touch the ball only once while airborne outside the boundary. Further touches result in the ball being called a boundary.
Are relay catches still allowed?
Yes, but with a major change—all fielders involved in the relay must be completely inside the field when the catch is completed.
When does the new rule come into effect?
The rule takes effect in all international matches from June 17, 2025 and will be fully integrated into the Laws of Cricket in October 2026.
