Afghanistan's women cricketers will be the first beneficiaries of a new global refugee fund announced on Friday by the London-based Marylebone Cricket Club.
<h2>Afghanistan's women cricketers get MCC help</h2>
Hundreds of female athletes fled Afghanistan as the Taliban took over in August 2021, escaping a hardline stance that essentially banned women's sport and education.&nbsp;
Most of the national women's cricket side settled as refugees in Australia, where they reunited for the first time on Thursday to play a charity match in Melbourne.
The MCC campaign's initial focus will be to raise funds for Pitch Our Future, an Australian-led programme that supports players from the former Afghan women's team, providing training facilities and educational opportunities.&nbsp;
The fund aims to raise an initial &pound;1 million ($1.2 million), with contributions from the England and Wales Cricket Board, corporate sponsorships, government grants and donations from other international boards.
The MCC owns Lord's cricket ground in London and is the custodian of the laws of the game.
Rob Lynch, interim chief executive and secretary of MCC, said: "The Global Refugee Cricket Fund represents a vital step forward in our mission to use cricket as a force for good."
Clare Connor, deputy chief executive of the ECB and a former England women's captain, said: "The cricket community must take action to support the brave Afghan women and to give hope that cricket can be a sport for any woman or girl."
The England men's team have faced calls to boycott their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan in Lahore on February 26.
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But the game is set to go ahead even though the Taliban's move to effectively ban female participation puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with International Cricket Council rules.
Both the ECB and Cricket Australia have said they will not play the Afghanistan men in bilateral series but will face them in global tournaments, where a failure to take the field would likely see their teams docked competition points.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Cricket: Afghanistan's women cricketers will be the first beneficiaries of a new global refugee fund announced on Friday by the London-based Marylebone Cricket Club.

Afghanistan's women cricketers will be the first beneficiaries of a new global refugee fund announced on Friday by the London-based Marylebone Cricket Club. Afghanistan's women cricketers get MCC help Hundreds of female athletes fled Afghanistan as the Taliban took over in August 2021, escaping a hardline stance that essentially banned women's sport and education. Most of the national women's cricket side settled as refugees in Australia, where they reunited for the first time on Thursday to play a charity match in Melbourne. The MCC campaign's initial focus will be to raise funds for Pitch Our Future, an Australian-led programme that supports players from the former Afghan women's team, providing training facilities and educational opportunities. The fund aims to raise an initial £1 million ($1.2 million), with contributions from the England and Wales Cricket Board, corporate sponsorships, government grants and donations from other international boards. The MCC owns Lord's cricket ground in London and is the custodian of the laws of the game. Rob Lynch, interim chief executive and secretary of MCC, said: "The Global Refugee Cricket Fund represents a vital step forward in our mission to use cricket as a force for good." Clare Connor, deputy chief executive of the ECB and a former England women's captain, said: "The cricket community must take action to support the brave Afghan women and to give hope that cricket can be a sport for any woman or girl." The England men's team have faced calls to boycott their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan in Lahore on February 26. ALSO READ | Sachin Tendulkar to be bestowed with BCCI's Lifetime Achievement award-Reports But the game is set to go ahead even though the Taliban's move to effectively ban female participation puts the Afghanistan Cricket Board at odds with International Cricket Council rules. Both the ECB and Cricket Australia have said they will not play the Afghanistan men in bilateral series but will face them in global tournaments, where a failure to take the field would likely see their teams docked competition points. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Afghan women cricketers get help from new refugee fund from Marylebone Cricket Club

The former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci">BCCI</a> secretary and the current ICC chair, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jay-shah">Jay Shah</a>, has added another feather to his already-illustrious-looking administrative cap by joining the new Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) advisory board, replacing the club&rsquo;s World Cricket Committee.
Shah was among notable absentees from the inaugural World Cricket Connects forum last year (staged by the MCC), where over 100 leading voices discussed the state of the game at Lord&rsquo;s; however, he is now among the 13 founding members of this new board, chaired by Kumar Sangakkara &ndash; the MCC President.
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The MCC announced on Thursday that the Lord&rsquo;s will host the second World Cricket Connects forum on June (7 and 8) before staging the third edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/icc-world-test-championship-final">World Test Championship Final</a> between South Africa and Australia starting June 11.&nbsp;
"We are looking forward to welcoming many of the game's most influential figures to debate the most important topics that dominate global cricket,&rdquo; MCC chair Mark Nicholas said.
Meanwhile, the new advisory board has replaced the World Cricket Committee (formed in 2006), which last met during the previous summer. Besides, the other founding members of this new board include Sourav Ganguly, Graeme Smith, Andrew Strauss, and England women's captain Heather Knight, alongside JioStar's CEO (Sports), Sanjog Gupta.
"An important step has been made in the forming of the World Cricket Connects Advisory Board," Nicholas said.&nbsp;
"We have assembled an impressive group of the best minds in cricket across several different areas relevant to our sport. I am delighted to be working with this experienced group and excited about what we can collectively achieve for the benefit of the global game,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>New board, new role</h2>
The now-dissolved World Cricket Committee was an independent body, holding no formal powers; however, the ICC often adopted its recommendations that included calls for a Decision Review System (DRS), the formation of the WTC, the introduction of the Pink-Ball Test and the use of the shot clock to improve the slow over-rates.
However, the MCC declared the new advisory body&rsquo;s role, stating, "This independent group will shape the annual World Cricket Connects agenda, help facilitate the event's discussions, and in turn, maximise the opportunity for genuine impact on the health of the game."
<h3>Here is the list of its founding members &ndash;</h3>
Kumar Sangakkara (chair), Anurag Dahiya (ICC chief commercial officer), Chris Dehring (CWI CEO), Sourav Ganguly, Sanjog Gupta (JioStar CEO - Sports), Mel Jones, Heather Knight, Trudy Lindblade (Cricket Scotland CEO), Heath Mills (World Cricketers' Association chair), Imtiaz Patel (Former SuperSport chair), Jay Shah, Graeme Smith and Andrew Strauss
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Cricket: ICC chair Jay Shah, who was not part of the inaugural World Cricket Connects forum last year, is now among the 13 founding members of this new board.

The former BCCI secretary and the current ICC chair, Jay Shah, has added another feather to his already-illustrious-looking administrative cap by joining the new Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) advisory board, replacing the club’s World Cricket Committee. Shah was among notable absentees from the inaugural World Cricket Connects forum last year (staged by the MCC), where over 100 leading voices discussed the state of the game at Lord’s; however, he is now among the 13 founding members of this new board, chaired by Kumar Sangakkara – the MCC President. Also read | Like father, like son: Andrew Flintoff's child Rocky scores maiden ton for England Lions The MCC announced on Thursday that the Lord’s will host the second World Cricket Connects forum on June (7 and 8) before staging the third edition of the World Test Championship Final between South Africa and Australia starting June 11. "We are looking forward to welcoming many of the game's most influential figures to debate the most important topics that dominate global cricket,” MCC chair Mark Nicholas said. Meanwhile, the new advisory board has replaced the World Cricket Committee (formed in 2006), which last met during the previous summer. Besides, the other founding members of this new board include Sourav Ganguly, Graeme Smith, Andrew Strauss, and England women's captain Heather Knight, alongside JioStar's CEO (Sports), Sanjog Gupta. "An important step has been made in the forming of the World Cricket Connects Advisory Board," Nicholas said. "We have assembled an impressive group of the best minds in cricket across several different areas relevant to our sport. I am delighted to be working with this experienced group and excited about what we can collectively achieve for the benefit of the global game,” he added. New board, new role The now-dissolved World Cricket Committee was an independent body, holding no formal powers; however, the ICC often adopted its recommendations that included calls for a Decision Review System (DRS), the formation of the WTC, the introduction of the Pink-Ball Test and the use of the shot clock to improve the slow over-rates. However, the MCC declared the new advisory body’s role, stating, "This independent group will shape the annual World Cricket Connects agenda, help facilitate the event's discussions, and in turn, maximise the opportunity for genuine impact on the health of the game." Here is the list of its founding members – Kumar Sangakkara (chair), Anurag Dahiya (ICC chief commercial officer), Chris Dehring (CWI CEO), Sourav Ganguly, Sanjog Gupta (JioStar CEO - Sports), Mel Jones, Heather Knight, Trudy Lindblade (Cricket Scotland CEO), Heath Mills (World Cricketers' Association chair), Imtiaz Patel (Former SuperSport chair), Jay Shah, Graeme Smith and Andrew Strauss (With inputs from agencies)

ICC chair Jay Shah adds another feather to his illustrious administrative cap

ODI cricket is dying a slow death. Be it for the schedule, the emergence of the shorter format, or people's inclination towards watching a fast-paced, result-oriented form of the game, 50 overs cricket looks likely to face its worst fear. Days away from the start of the Cricket World Cup in India, Marylebone Cricket Club's (MCC) new incoming president, Mark Nicholas, feels the supernatural growth of the T20 format will curb ODI's sustainability in times to come.&nbsp;

Succeeding Stephen Fry as president of cricket's oldest and most prestigious members' club, Mark Nicholas echoes the same views as those of MCC's World Cricket Committee's members, who met in July to call for ODI cricket to cut down outside the World Cup years.

Speaking with ESPNcricinfo, Mark said considering fans' keen interest in watching T20 cricket due to its fast nature and how bilateral cricket is fading away with each passing series, ODIs should get reduced during the World Cup period only following this edition.

"We believe strongly that ODIs should be World Cups only. We think it's difficult bilaterally now to justify them. They're not filling grounds in a lot of countries. And there is a power at the moment to T20 cricket that is almost supernatural," Nicholas told ESPNcricinfo.

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Admitting that this issue is above ticket sales and money flowing in, Mark said with people and countries keen on owning several franchise-based T20 tournaments, it's the number of players who wish to be available for those that will matter.

"It's more than just ticket sales. It's the amount of people that want to own franchises, the amount of countries that want to run tournaments, it's the amount of players that want to be in a market all around the world.

"In a free market, the most money wins. And that's just the end game. The players can see that bubbling away, and they want to be a part of it. So, it is an extraordinary power that T20 has, and I think scheduling 50-over cricket alongside it just continues the story of the death knell of the ODI game," Mark added.

Even in the lead-up to the World Cup, several first-team players from a few countries announced their decision to retire from the ODIs following the mega event, mainly to pursue their careers in franchise-based T20 leagues. Quinton de Kock from South Africa and Naveen-ul-Haq from Afghanistan are among those.

Meanwhile, Cricket World Cup 2023 will get underway on Thursday (Oct 5), with the opener to be played between New Zealand and England in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

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ODI cricket is dying a slow death. Be it for the schedule, the emergence of the shorter format, or people's inclination towards watching a fast-paced, result-oriented form of the game, 50 overs cricket looks likely to face its worst fear.

ODI cricket is dying a slow death. Be it for the schedule, the emergence of the shorter format, or people's inclination towards watching a fast-paced, result-oriented form of the game, 50 overs cricket looks likely to face its worst fear. Days away from the start of the Cricket World Cup in India, Marylebone Cricket Club's (MCC) new incoming president, Mark Nicholas, feels the supernatural growth of the T20 format will curb ODI's sustainability in times to come. Succeeding Stephen Fry as president of cricket's oldest and most prestigious members' club, Mark Nicholas echoes the same views as those of MCC's World Cricket Committee's members, who met in July to call for ODI cricket to cut down outside the World Cup years. Speaking with ESPNcricinfo, Mark said considering fans' keen interest in watching T20 cricket due to its fast nature and how bilateral cricket is fading away with each passing series, ODIs should get reduced during the World Cup period only following this edition. "We believe strongly that ODIs should be World Cups only. We think it's difficult bilaterally now to justify them. They're not filling grounds in a lot of countries. And there is a power at the moment to T20 cricket that is almost supernatural," Nicholas told ESPNcricinfo. ALSO READ: World Cup: Boost for Bangladesh as Shakib Al Hasan declared fit for opener against Afghanistan Admitting that this issue is above ticket sales and money flowing in, Mark said with people and countries keen on owning several franchise-based T20 tournaments, it's the number of players who wish to be available for those that will matter. "It's more than just ticket sales. It's the amount of people that want to own franchises, the amount of countries that want to run tournaments, it's the amount of players that want to be in a market all around the world. "In a free market, the most money wins. And that's just the end game. The players can see that bubbling away, and they want to be a part of it. So, it is an extraordinary power that T20 has, and I think scheduling 50-over cricket alongside it just continues the story of the death knell of the ODI game," Mark added. Even in the lead-up to the World Cup, several first-team players from a few countries announced their decision to retire from the ODIs following the mega event, mainly to pursue their careers in franchise-based T20 leagues. Quinton de Kock from South Africa and Naveen-ul-Haq from Afghanistan are among those. Meanwhile, Cricket World Cup 2023 will get underway on Thursday (Oct 5), with the opener to be played between New Zealand and England in Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODIs should only be confined to World Cups, says MCC's new incoming President Mark Nicholas

After what unfolded inside the Long Room at Lord's during day five of the second Ashes Test, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) brought in stricter rules, further distancing the MCC members from interacting with the players.

Following Jonny Bairstow's dismissal just at the stroke of tea on day five, wherein keeper Alex Carey stumped his counterpart from quite a distance, trigging the English fans over the mode of it, the Australian players, while on their way to the dressing room, got booed, abused by some of the MCC members.

This instance brought shame to the entire Marylebone Cricket Club, and Carnegie-Brown - the MCC Chairman, in a lengthy address said the probe into the matter and against those who hurled abuses at Australian players is already underway. He further criticised the ones who made the videos of the drama, which got viral in no time.

"The video footage captured on Sunday (including some which was taken in clear breach of our regulations) is there for all to see," Carnegie-Brown said. "The members shown on camera have brought shame on MCC. Their actions hinder our efforts to promote the positive things our club does to promote and celebrate the game."

As a result of the Long Room chaos, the MCC will provide a wider roped-off space for players to walk through the corridor away from the members. The newer rules will also restrict MCC members to be on the stairs when players come on and off the pitch.&nbsp;

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Moreover, the MCC has suspended three members who came in direct contact with the Australian players and also asked other members to identify the culprits.

"The behavioural issue amongst members that day does not end there," Carnegie-Brown said. "Were more evidence to come to light, and additional witness statements gathered, further disciplinary sanctions would undoubtedly be warranted.

"We encourage any member with information that could lead to the identification of others involved to come forward.

"It is unacceptable for any of us to point the finger of blame at others unless we are willing to intervene ourselves when we see behaviours which fall short of what is expected of members."

Meanwhile, the new implications will come into action for Australia's women's T20I against England on Saturday night.

<h2>Australian players booed in Leeds</h2>

Following four days of drama between the second and third Test, where media outlets from both countries tore each other's reputation in the name of 'Spirit of the Game,' Australian players got booed during their national anthem in the second Test.

While fans remained mum and were within the limits during Australia's first innings, Carey and captain Pat Cummins received the loudest boos.

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After what unfolded inside the Long Room at Lord's during day five of the second Ashes Test, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) brought in stricter rules, further distancing the MCC members from interacting with the players.

After what unfolded inside the Long Room at Lord's during day five of the second Ashes Test, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) brought in stricter rules, further distancing the MCC members from interacting with the players. Following Jonny Bairstow's dismissal just at the stroke of tea on day five, wherein keeper Alex Carey stumped his counterpart from quite a distance, trigging the English fans over the mode of it, the Australian players, while on their way to the dressing room, got booed, abused by some of the MCC members. This instance brought shame to the entire Marylebone Cricket Club, and Carnegie-Brown - the MCC Chairman, in a lengthy address said the probe into the matter and against those who hurled abuses at Australian players is already underway. He further criticised the ones who made the videos of the drama, which got viral in no time. "The video footage captured on Sunday (including some which was taken in clear breach of our regulations) is there for all to see," Carnegie-Brown said. "The members shown on camera have brought shame on MCC. Their actions hinder our efforts to promote the positive things our club does to promote and celebrate the game." As a result of the Long Room chaos, the MCC will provide a wider roped-off space for players to walk through the corridor away from the members. The newer rules will also restrict MCC members to be on the stairs when players come on and off the pitch. ALSO READ: Superstar-in-making Tilak Varma opens up on receiving advice from Rohit, Kohli ahead of West Indies tour Moreover, the MCC has suspended three members who came in direct contact with the Australian players and also asked other members to identify the culprits. "The behavioural issue amongst members that day does not end there," Carnegie-Brown said. "Were more evidence to come to light, and additional witness statements gathered, further disciplinary sanctions would undoubtedly be warranted. "We encourage any member with information that could lead to the identification of others involved to come forward. "It is unacceptable for any of us to point the finger of blame at others unless we are willing to intervene ourselves when we see behaviours which fall short of what is expected of members." Meanwhile, the new implications will come into action for Australia's women's T20I against England on Saturday night. Australian players booed in Leeds Following four days of drama between the second and third Test, where media outlets from both countries tore each other's reputation in the name of 'Spirit of the Game,' Australian players got booed during their national anthem in the second Test. While fans remained mum and were within the limits during Australia's first innings, Carey and captain Pat Cummins received the loudest boos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ashes: MCC brings in stricter pavilion rules following Long Room drama during Lord's Test

Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the governing body of cricket laws, has justified giving England opener Ben Duckett not out on the fourth day of Lord's Test in Ashes 2023. Duckett had uppercut a ball in the final overs of the day 4 which Australia's Mitchell Starc had caught. Starc although, slid along the ground after taking the catch.

The ball was caught cleanly but it touched the ground as Starc slid along after the catch and the ball kept in touch with the ground. The decision was referred upstairs and Duckett was adjudged 'not out.' MCC, on its Twitter handle, evoked Law 33.3, saying that Starc didn't have complete control over the ball.

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"Law 33.3 clearly states that a catch is only completed when the fielder has 'complete control over the ball and his/her movement'," MCC posted on Twitter. "The ball cannot touch the ground before then. In this particular incident, Mitchell Starc was still sliding as the ball rubbed the ground, therefore he was not in control of his movement."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
In relation to the below incident, Law 33.3 clearly states that a catch is only completed when the fielder has "complete control over the ball and his/her own movement." 
 
See here for full clarification: <a href="https://t.co/cCBoJd6xOS">https://t.co/cCBoJd6xOS</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCCLaws?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCCLaws</a> <a href="https://t.co/TEOE1WKJvu">pic.twitter.com/TEOE1WKJvu</a>
— Marylebone Cricket Club (@MCCOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MCCOfficial/status/1675216307812220929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Former Australia pacer Glenn McGrath, however, wasn't amused with the on-field decision and called the decision 'rubbish.'

"I'm sorry, that is the biggest load of rubbish I've ever seen," he said on the BBC. "He's got that under control, the ball is under control. That is a disgrace. I'm sorry, that is a disgrace. I've seen everything now. I cannot believe that. That is ridiculous. If that ball is not under control, that is ridiculous." Have a look at the controversial catch here:

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Well then... 
 
What do we think of this one? 👀 
 
Cleary grounded 😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EnglandCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EnglandCricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/bPHQbw81dl">pic.twitter.com/bPHQbw81dl</a>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1675203966496550912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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England were already four down at that time but Duckett was batting on 50. He had added 68 runs with skipper Ben Stokes for the fifth wicket by the time of the incident. England then ended the day on 114/4, needing 257 on the final day of the second Test.

The hosts, however, were in soup on day 5 at the time of writing this report with six wickets down for less than 200.

Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the governing body of cricket laws, has justified giving England opener Ben Duckett not out on the fourth day of Lord's Test in Ashes 2023.

Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the governing body of cricket laws, has justified giving England opener Ben Duckett not out on the fourth day of Lord's Test in Ashes 2023. Duckett had uppercut a ball in the final overs of the day 4 which Australia's Mitchell Starc had caught. Starc although, slid along the ground after taking the catch. The ball was caught cleanly but it touched the ground as Starc slid along after the catch and the ball kept in touch with the ground. The decision was referred upstairs and Duckett was adjudged 'not out.' MCC, on its Twitter handle, evoked Law 33.3, saying that Starc didn't have complete control over the ball. Also Read: Out of favour India batsman Prithvi Shaw signs with Northamptonshire to play in English county "Law 33.3 clearly states that a catch is only completed when the fielder has 'complete control over the ball and his/her movement'," MCC posted on Twitter. "The ball cannot touch the ground before then. In this particular incident, Mitchell Starc was still sliding as the ball rubbed the ground, therefore he was not in control of his movement." In relation to the below incident, Law 33.3 clearly states that a catch is only completed when the fielder has "complete control over the ball and his/her own movement." See here for full clarification: https://t.co/cCBoJd6xOS#MCCLaws pic.twitter.com/TEOE1WKJvu — Marylebone Cricket Club (@MCCOfficial) July 1, 2023 × Former Australia pacer Glenn McGrath, however, wasn't amused with the on-field decision and called the decision 'rubbish.' "I'm sorry, that is the biggest load of rubbish I've ever seen," he said on the BBC. "He's got that under control, the ball is under control. That is a disgrace. I'm sorry, that is a disgrace. I've seen everything now. I cannot believe that. That is ridiculous. If that ball is not under control, that is ridiculous." Have a look at the controversial catch here: Well then... What do we think of this one? 👀 Cleary grounded 😉 #EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/bPHQbw81dl — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 1, 2023 × England were already four down at that time but Duckett was batting on 50. He had added 68 runs with skipper Ben Stokes for the fifth wicket by the time of the incident. England then ended the day on 114/4, needing 257 on the final day of the second Test. The hosts, however, were in soup on day 5 at the time of writing this report with six wickets down for less than 200.

Ashes 2023: MCC backs ruling Ben Duckett not out after Mitchell Starc's catch on Day 4 of Lord's Test

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) after&nbsp;its latest World Cricket Committee (WCC) meeting in Dubai, has concluded that time has arrived&nbsp;for the game’s leaders to come forward and ensure the flow of even funding among all playing nations. It has also urged them to work on the possible formula where international and franchise-based T20 cricket leagues can thrive together harmoniously.

“The WCC unanimously concluded that the game has reached an important crossroads, recommending urgent intervention from the game's leaders to ensure international and franchise cricket can thrive together harmoniously,” the MCC said in a statement after a meeting in Dubai.

Mike Gatting, the former England captain and the chairperson of the WCC, shared his concerns about the slow death of traditional formats following the introduction of countless T20 leagues. Considering the status of Test cricket across all playing nations – where in some countries it is popular while in others they are finding it hard to sustain with it, Gatting said for Tests to survive, an equal distribution of funding among all nations is the need of the hour now. &nbsp;

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"Bilateral cricket, and indeed Test cricket, is more popular in some parts of the world than others. With this in mind, we need to ensure that funding is more evenly distributed across the member nations. It is inconceivable that the game's heart and soul can be affluent in some countries and almost unaffordable in others," Gatting said in a statement.

Aware of how fast the game is evolving and how it will shape in ten year's time, Gatting feels if the right steps towards balancing the global economics of cricket is not taken now, two of the traditional formats could suffer an adverse fate.

“The committee felt strongly that the opportunity to better balance the global economics of the game must be seized now so that this current position of strength can help secure the sustainability of the international game for all ICC Member nations and future generations," the MCC said. The concerns of the members, admittedly, centred on the future of the game, specifically what global cricket might look like in ten years' time, and should it be left to evolve organically.”

Stressing over the current Men’s FTP that reflects a worrisome picture given how packed it is because of the induction of several franchise-based T20 leagues around world, Gatting feels the international cricket must be protected at any cost – although no measures or guidelines were laid down as of now as to how it would be done.

"The purpose of such foresight was to examine how international cricket can be protected, amidst a global cricketing schedule that is increasingly filled with short-form franchise tournaments," it said. "Also notable in the new men's FTP is an alarming and growing disparity in the amount of international cricket played by a minority of member nations compared to others; a situation which is clearly neither equitable nor sustainable,” Gatting said.

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) after its latest World Cricket Committee (WCC) meeting in Dubai, has concluded that time has arrived for the game’s leaders to come forward and ensure the flow of even funding among all playing nations.

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) after its latest World Cricket Committee (WCC) meeting in Dubai, has concluded that time has arrived for the game’s leaders to come forward and ensure the flow of even funding among all playing nations. It has also urged them to work on the possible formula where international and franchise-based T20 cricket leagues can thrive together harmoniously. “The WCC unanimously concluded that the game has reached an important crossroads, recommending urgent intervention from the game's leaders to ensure international and franchise cricket can thrive together harmoniously,” the MCC said in a statement after a meeting in Dubai. Mike Gatting, the former England captain and the chairperson of the WCC, shared his concerns about the slow death of traditional formats following the introduction of countless T20 leagues. Considering the status of Test cricket across all playing nations – where in some countries it is popular while in others they are finding it hard to sustain with it, Gatting said for Tests to survive, an equal distribution of funding among all nations is the need of the hour now. ALSO READ: Skipping IPL to play County Championships, England's Chris Woakes aims for a Test return during Ashes "Bilateral cricket, and indeed Test cricket, is more popular in some parts of the world than others. With this in mind, we need to ensure that funding is more evenly distributed across the member nations. It is inconceivable that the game's heart and soul can be affluent in some countries and almost unaffordable in others," Gatting said in a statement. Aware of how fast the game is evolving and how it will shape in ten year's time, Gatting feels if the right steps towards balancing the global economics of cricket is not taken now, two of the traditional formats could suffer an adverse fate. “The committee felt strongly that the opportunity to better balance the global economics of the game must be seized now so that this current position of strength can help secure the sustainability of the international game for all ICC Member nations and future generations," the MCC said. The concerns of the members, admittedly, centred on the future of the game, specifically what global cricket might look like in ten years' time, and should it be left to evolve organically.” Stressing over the current Men’s FTP that reflects a worrisome picture given how packed it is because of the induction of several franchise-based T20 leagues around world, Gatting feels the international cricket must be protected at any cost – although no measures or guidelines were laid down as of now as to how it would be done. "The purpose of such foresight was to examine how international cricket can be protected, amidst a global cricketing schedule that is increasingly filled with short-form franchise tournaments," it said. "Also notable in the new men's FTP is an alarming and growing disparity in the amount of international cricket played by a minority of member nations compared to others; a situation which is clearly neither equitable nor sustainable,” Gatting said.

International cricket must be protected - MCC on growth of franchise-based T20 leagues

Listing MCC's fresh changes to the laws of cricket

From not allowing saliva to shine the ball to allowing 'Mankad' method of dismissing batters, New Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has announced its new code of Laws for 2022, which will come into force from October 1.

From not allowing saliva to shine the ball to allowing 'Mankad' method of dismissing batters, New Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has announced its new code of Laws for 2022, which will come into force from October 1. The Lord's-based MCC has been the sole authority on the laws of cricket since it was founded in 1787. MCC said that the changes are intended to shape the game of cricket as it "should be played". Here are some significant changes announced by MCC: 'Mankad' Mankad' method of dismissing batters will not be listed under unfair play in new laws. The 'Mankad' method is one of the most controversial ways of dismissing a batter, with people debating over its usage considering the spirit of the game. It is used rarely but entirely permissible. The method involves the bowler stumping the batter who starts running from the bowler's end before the ball is fully thrown. ALSO READ | Body of Shane Warne remains in Thailand as Australia arranges to return home No saliva MCC has put a ban on the use of saliva to shine the ball. Apart from saliva, sweat has also been used by the cricketers for years to help bowlers generate more movement in the air as it travels towards batters. However, the new laws make permanent a ban on applying saliva to the ball due to health reasons. The ban was implemented when men's cricket resumed after a coronavirus (COVID-19) suspension in July 2020. "The new laws will not permit the use of saliva on the ball, which also removes any grey areas of fielders eating sugary sweets to alter their saliva to apply to the ball," the MCC said in a statement. "Using saliva will be treated the same way as any other unfair methods of changing the condition of the ball." Replacement players As per MCC, the replacements are to be treated as if they were the player they replaced, inheriting any sanctions or dismissals that the player has done in that match. ALSO READ | R Ashwin or Harbhajan Singh? Gautam Gambhir picks the more difficult off-spinner to face Batters returning when caught When a batter is out caught, the new batter shall come in at the end the striker was at, which means to face the next ball (unless it is the end of an over). Dead ball The delivery will be called a dead ball if either side is disadvantaged by a person, animal or another object within the field of play. MCC said, "From a pitch invader to a dog running onto the field, sometimes there is outside interference – if this is the case, and it has a material impact on the game, the umpires will call and signal Dead ball." Bowler throwing towards striker’s end before delivery As per the new laws, if a bowler throws the ball in an attempt to run-out the striker before entering their delivery stride, it will now be a dead ball. This is an extremely rare scenario, which has until now been called a no-ball. Wide ball MCC noted that a wide will apply to "where the batter is standing, where the striker has stood at any point since the bowler began their run-up, and which would also have passed wide of the striker in a normal batting position".

Cricket is changing: New code covers 'Mankad', use of saliva, dogs invading pitch

The importance of gender-neutral terminology can be understood better by highlighting the discrimination faced by a particular gender due to an established structure of how some terms in a particular language are&nbsp;spoken and written.&nbsp;

In English for example, terms that defines gender-specific job titles, such as, policeman, chairman, stewardess, salesman, fireman are used widely and very commonly. But attempts are being made for a gender-inclusive language and words like - police officer, chair, flight attendant, salesperson firefighter are recommended to be applied to any type of communication, whether it is oral or written.&nbsp;

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When it comes to sport, especially cricket, the issue related to terminology persists, however, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is making efforts to establish a balance and boost women's cricket.&nbsp;

Recently, ICC announced that the term "batter" will replace "batsman" in all playing conditions from the Men's T20 World Cup 2021. The world cricket governing body stated that over the past four years, it has been moving away from the word batsman and batter being implemented regularly in commentary and across the organisation's channels.&nbsp;

In September, the Marylebone Cricket Club also announced that it would be replacing the word 'batsman' with 'batter' in the Laws of Cricket. Former Australia star Lisa Sthalekar said that the move to 'batter' is a simple but important one in growing a sport that truly is for everyone.&nbsp;

Women's cricket in recent times has seen tremendous growth in terms of popularity as one can remember the Women's T20 World Cup final between Australia and India in 2020 that attracted more than 80,000 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Women's cricket will feature at the Commonwealth Games for the first time at the 2022 Games in Birmingham, England.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-announce-usd-16-million-prize-money-for-winner-of-t20-world-cup-2021-419616">ICC announce USD 1.6 million prize money for winner of T20 World Cup 2021</a>

Such changes are significant as governing body recognises the changing landscape of the game in modern times but are they enough to boost the status of women's cricket? As women's cricket is plagued by a lack of sponsors and lack of fanfare.&nbsp;

The way Indian Premier League (IPL) has promoted men's cricket, amplifying the market of a particular sport in India, women cricket could also use a league of similar stature and reap benefits.&nbsp;

India's Twenty20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur called for a women's IPL competition after India lost a close Twenty20 International contest to Australia at the Carrara Oval on Saturday (October 9).

Harmanpreet credited the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), the domestic T20 competition in Australia, for the national team's success, and alluded to the growth of the Indian men's side thanks to the IPL.

A three-team Women's T20 Challenge tournament, held in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates in 2020 alongside the rescheduled men's IPL, has not taken place this year.&nbsp;

Hope the cricket body will take note of what Harmanpreet has said but as of now, an absolute implementation of replacing the word 'batsman' with 'batter' appears to be a significant change. But expectations are definitely there to see more changes in favour of women's cricket.&nbsp;

The importance of gender-neutral terminology can be understood better by highlighting the discrimination faced by a particular gender due to an established structure of how some terms in a particular language are spoken and written.

The importance of gender-neutral terminology can be understood better by highlighting the discrimination faced by a particular gender due to an established structure of how some terms in a particular language are spoken and written. In English for example, terms that defines gender-specific job titles, such as, policeman, chairman, stewardess, salesman, fireman are used widely and very commonly. But attempts are being made for a gender-inclusive language and words like - police officer, chair, flight attendant, salesperson firefighter are recommended to be applied to any type of communication, whether it is oral or written. ALSO READ | DRS to make debut in upcoming ICC men's T20 World Cup 2021 When it comes to sport, especially cricket, the issue related to terminology persists, however, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is making efforts to establish a balance and boost women's cricket. Recently, ICC announced that the term "batter" will replace "batsman" in all playing conditions from the Men's T20 World Cup 2021. The world cricket governing body stated that over the past four years, it has been moving away from the word batsman and batter being implemented regularly in commentary and across the organisation's channels. In September, the Marylebone Cricket Club also announced that it would be replacing the word 'batsman' with 'batter' in the Laws of Cricket. Former Australia star Lisa Sthalekar said that the move to 'batter' is a simple but important one in growing a sport that truly is for everyone. Women's cricket in recent times has seen tremendous growth in terms of popularity as one can remember the Women's T20 World Cup final between Australia and India in 2020 that attracted more than 80,000 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Women's cricket will feature at the Commonwealth Games for the first time at the 2022 Games in Birmingham, England. ALSO READ | ICC announce USD 1.6 million prize money for winner of T20 World Cup 2021 Such changes are significant as governing body recognises the changing landscape of the game in modern times but are they enough to boost the status of women's cricket? As women's cricket is plagued by a lack of sponsors and lack of fanfare. The way Indian Premier League (IPL) has promoted men's cricket, amplifying the market of a particular sport in India, women cricket could also use a league of similar stature and reap benefits. India's Twenty20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur called for a women's IPL competition after India lost a close Twenty20 International contest to Australia at the Carrara Oval on Saturday (October 9). Harmanpreet credited the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL), the domestic T20 competition in Australia, for the national team's success, and alluded to the growth of the Indian men's side thanks to the IPL. A three-team Women's T20 Challenge tournament, held in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates in 2020 alongside the rescheduled men's IPL, has not taken place this year. Hope the cricket body will take note of what Harmanpreet has said but as of now, an absolute implementation of replacing the word 'batsman' with 'batter' appears to be a significant change. But expectations are definitely there to see more changes in favour of women's cricket.

Not batsman, 'tis 'batter' now: ICC's step in the right direction but is that enough for women's cricket?

The Marylebone Cricket Club on Wednesday announced amendments that were made to the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms "batter" and "batters", rather than "batsman" or "batsmen", with an aim to stress the importance of the women's game.

The Marylebone Cricket Club on Wednesday announced amendments that were made to the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms "batter" and "batters", rather than "batsman" or "batsmen", with an aim to stress the importance of the women's game. MCC is encouraging everyone to adopt the updated terminology following the change to the laws. On its official site, MCC informed that the changes have been approved by the MCC Committee, following initial discussion by the club's specialist laws sub-committee. Part of the statement read: "MCC believes that the use of gender-neutral terminology helps reinforce cricket’s status as an inclusive game for all. The amendments are a natural evolution from work already undertaken in this area as well as an essential part of MCC's global responsibility to the sport." It is worth mentioning that women's cricket will feature at the Commonwealth Games for the first time at the 2022 Games in Birmingham, England. IN PICS | IPL 2021 UAE leg: All teams and their revised squad list Jamie Cox, Assistant Secretary (Cricket and Operations) at MCC said as quoted by the MCC's site, "MCC believes in cricket being a game for all and this move recognises the changing landscape of the game in modern times." "Use of the term “batter” is a natural evolution in our shared cricketing language and the terminology has already been adopted by many of those involved in the sport. It is the right time for this adjustment to be recognised formally and we are delighted, as the Guardians of the Laws, to announce these changes today," he added. MCC has today announced amendments to the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms “batter” and “batters”, rather than “batsman” or “batsmen”. — Marylebone Cricket Club (@MCCOfficial) September 22, 2021 × Women's cricket in recent times has seen tremendous growth in terms of popularity. One can remember the 2017 World Cup final, which took place in front of a capacity crowd at Lord's when England defeated India while the women's World Twenty20 final between Australia and India last year attracted more than 80,000 to the Melbourne Cricket Ground The MCC, the most esteemed club in the sport, welcomed its first female full member in 2018, 20 years after a vote to allow women to join. Former England captain Clare Connor, the England and Wales Cricket Board's managing director of women's cricket, will become the first female president in the club's history next month when she takes over from Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara. (With inputs from agencies)

'Gender-neutral terminology': MCC changes 'batsman' to 'batter' in Laws of Cricket

A Cambridge University study has asserted that its model bamboo bat has a bigger sweet spot contrasted with a conventional willow. As per the exploration, it would make a batsman's life simpler while managing a yorker.&nbsp;

The examination, distributed in the Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology, likewise stated that its model bamboo bat was less expensive to create, more manageable, and more grounded than conventional willow edges. As per co-creator Darshil Shah, who played cricket in Thailand at youth level, bamboo bats would be "a batsman's dream".&nbsp;

“The sweet spot on a bamboo bat makes it much easier to hit a four off a yorker for starters, but it’s exciting for all kinds of strokes.”

Co-creator Ben Tinkler-Davies confirmed that light bamboo bats would make scoring runs simpler for batsmen.

“Whether you’re playing or spectating, you wouldn’t notice much of a difference. Because laminated bamboo is so strong, we’re very confident we can make a bamboo bat light enough, even for today’s fast-scoring, short forms of the game.”

The research found that while bamboo is 22% stiffer than willow, its sweet spot likewise performed 19% better. The model bat's sweet spot is found nearer to the toe, permitting it to move more energy to the ball, as per analysts.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-players-unlikely-to-feature-in-rescheduled-ipl-hints-ashley-giles-384239" hreflang="en">England players unlikely to feature in rescheduled IPL, hints Ashley Giles</a>

The research additionally brought up that willow trees need 15 years to develop and deliver cricket bats, while bamboo requires only five to six years. It is likewise accessible in wealth in China, South America, Southeast Asia, and India also. The fascinating research further guaranteed that bamboo bats could prompt more helpless nations to take to the game, attributable to the lower creation costs.

Although the overseers of the game, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) have dismissed the possibility of bamboo bats, saying that it will be illicit under the current law. In any case, the MCC added that they would look into the matter during their next laws sub-panel meeting.

MCC expressed that for bamboo bats to be acknowledged at the global level, there should be a difference in laws.

"Currently, Law 5.3.2 states that the blade of the bat must consist solely of wood, so for bamboo (which is a grass) to be considered as a realistic alternative to willow would require a Law change," said MCC in a statement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/consider-england-tour-over-if-found-positive-in-mumbai-bcci-inform-players-384226" hreflang="en">‘Consider England tour over if found positive in Mumbai’ – BCCI inform players</a>

"Importantly, the Law would need to be altered to allow bamboo specifically, as even if it were to be recognized as a wood, this would still be illegal under the current law, which bans lamination of the blade, except in junior bats." – they added.

MCC additionally said that they need to keep an equilibrium in the challenge among bat and ball. With bamboo bats probably making batting simpler, the game may shift definitely in the batsman's favor.

MCC recognized that part of the bamboo bats and said in an explanation: "Sustainability is a relevant topic for MCC and indeed cricket, and this angle of willow alternatives should also be considered. With the researchers stating that the most suitable types of bamboo grow abundantly across China and that low-cost production could make bamboo bats a viable and ethical alternative to willow, this could provide a pertinent angle for further research and the possibility of reducing the cost of producing bats in different areas of the world."

The sport of cricket is as of now viewed as vigorously stacked for batsmen, especially in the limited-overs&nbsp;designs, with powerplays and other field limitations and the invention of wooden bats will only add up to the batsman's favor.&nbsp;

A Cambridge University study has asserted that its model bamboo bat has a bigger sweet spot contrasted with a conventional willow. As per the exploration, it would make a batsman's life simpler while managing a yorker.

A Cambridge University study has asserted that its model bamboo bat has a bigger sweet spot contrasted with a conventional willow. As per the exploration, it would make a batsman's life simpler while managing a yorker. The examination, distributed in the Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology, likewise stated that its model bamboo bat was less expensive to create, more manageable, and more grounded than conventional willow edges. As per co-creator Darshil Shah, who played cricket in Thailand at youth level, bamboo bats would be "a batsman's dream". “The sweet spot on a bamboo bat makes it much easier to hit a four off a yorker for starters, but it’s exciting for all kinds of strokes.” Co-creator Ben Tinkler-Davies confirmed that light bamboo bats would make scoring runs simpler for batsmen. “Whether you’re playing or spectating, you wouldn’t notice much of a difference. Because laminated bamboo is so strong, we’re very confident we can make a bamboo bat light enough, even for today’s fast-scoring, short forms of the game.” The research found that while bamboo is 22% stiffer than willow, its sweet spot likewise performed 19% better. The model bat's sweet spot is found nearer to the toe, permitting it to move more energy to the ball, as per analysts. ALSO READ: England players unlikely to feature in rescheduled IPL, hints Ashley Giles The research additionally brought up that willow trees need 15 years to develop and deliver cricket bats, while bamboo requires only five to six years. It is likewise accessible in wealth in China, South America, Southeast Asia, and India also. The fascinating research further guaranteed that bamboo bats could prompt more helpless nations to take to the game, attributable to the lower creation costs. Although the overseers of the game, the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) have dismissed the possibility of bamboo bats, saying that it will be illicit under the current law. In any case, the MCC added that they would look into the matter during their next laws sub-panel meeting. MCC expressed that for bamboo bats to be acknowledged at the global level, there should be a difference in laws. "Currently, Law 5.3.2 states that the blade of the bat must consist solely of wood, so for bamboo (which is a grass) to be considered as a realistic alternative to willow would require a Law change," said MCC in a statement. ALSO READ: ‘Consider England tour over if found positive in Mumbai’ – BCCI inform players "Importantly, the Law would need to be altered to allow bamboo specifically, as even if it were to be recognized as a wood, this would still be illegal under the current law, which bans lamination of the blade, except in junior bats." – they added. MCC additionally said that they need to keep an equilibrium in the challenge among bat and ball. With bamboo bats probably making batting simpler, the game may shift definitely in the batsman's favor. MCC recognized that part of the bamboo bats and said in an explanation: "Sustainability is a relevant topic for MCC and indeed cricket, and this angle of willow alternatives should also be considered. With the researchers stating that the most suitable types of bamboo grow abundantly across China and that low-cost production could make bamboo bats a viable and ethical alternative to willow, this could provide a pertinent angle for further research and the possibility of reducing the cost of producing bats in different areas of the world." The sport of cricket is as of now viewed as vigorously stacked for batsmen, especially in the limited-overs designs, with powerplays and other field limitations and the invention of wooden bats will only add up to the batsman's favor.

Bamboo bats could be an innovative weapon, but MCC rejects it, says it will be illegal

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara has been named as the first non-British president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and will take up his one-year post in October.

Sangakkara’s nomination was announced by the current president, Anthony Wreford, at the MCC annual general meeting at Lord’s on Wednesday.

Former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Sangakkara, who scored 12,400 runs in 134 tests, appears twice on the honours boards at Lord’s.

He hit 147 in the drawn Test against England in 2014, and 112 in Sri Lanka’s one-day international win on the same tour.

“It is a huge honour to be named the next President of MCC and it is a role that I am thoroughly looking forward to,” the 41-year-old said in a statement.

MCC was founded in 1787 and has been based at Lord’s, which it owns, since 1814. It is the guardian of the Laws of the game.

“For me, MCC is the greatest cricket club in the world, with its global reach and continued progress for cricket on and off the pitch,” added Sangakkara.

“The year 2020 is going to be yet another significant one in cricket, especially at Lord’s, and I am thrilled that I am going to be able to play a part in supporting its future as President of MCC.”

Sangakkara’s tenure will include another busy year at Lord’s next year, with two England test matches against West Indies and Pakistan and the launch of The Hundred - the England and Wales Cricket Board’s new 100-ball cricket format.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara has been named as the first non-British president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and will take up his one-year post in October.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara has been named as the first non-British president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and will take up his one-year post in October. Sangakkara’s nomination was announced by the current president, Anthony Wreford, at the MCC annual general meeting at Lord’s on Wednesday. Former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Sangakkara, who scored 12,400 runs in 134 tests, appears twice on the honours boards at Lord’s. He hit 147 in the drawn Test against England in 2014, and 112 in Sri Lanka’s one-day international win on the same tour. “It is a huge honour to be named the next President of MCC and it is a role that I am thoroughly looking forward to,” the 41-year-old said in a statement. MCC was founded in 1787 and has been based at Lord’s, which it owns, since 1814. It is the guardian of the Laws of the game. “For me, MCC is the greatest cricket club in the world, with its global reach and continued progress for cricket on and off the pitch,” added Sangakkara. “The year 2020 is going to be yet another significant one in cricket, especially at Lord’s, and I am thrilled that I am going to be able to play a part in supporting its future as President of MCC.” Sangakkara’s tenure will include another busy year at Lord’s next year, with two England test matches against West Indies and Pakistan and the launch of The Hundred - the England and Wales Cricket Board’s new 100-ball cricket format.

Kumar Sangakkara to become first non-British president of Marylebone Cricket Club

Big bats are set to be consigned to the wood-heap and umpires will be given the power to send off players from October as part of cricket&#39;s new Code of Laws, the Marylebone Cricket Club has said.

The maximum dimensions of a bat will be restricted to 108mm in width, 67mm in depth and with 40mm edges according to the new code which will be issued on October 1, the MCC said in a media release.

The rule change&nbsp;decided after consultations with players, manufacturers and global governing bodies, is in response to growing concerns about the imbalance between bat and ball.

Bat sizes have grown pronouncedly in recent years, with thicker edges regularly sending mis-hit shots to the boundaries, much to the chagrin of bowlers.

&quot;The bat size issue has been heavily scrutinised and discussed in recent years,&quot; the MCC&#39;s John Stephenson said.

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&quot;We believe the maximum dimensions we have set will help redress the balance between bat and ball, while still allowing the explosive, big hitting we all enjoy.&quot;

In other changes, umpires will be given more powers to punish poor player behaviour, starting with official warnings through to temporary or permanent dismissal from the field.

Offences including throwing the ball at a player or making deliberate physical contact with an opponent would result in the &quot;immediate awarding of five penalty runs to the opposing team&quot;, the MCC said.

More serious offences, including &quot;intimidating&quot; an umpire or threatening to assault another player, team official or spectator, would mean five penalty runs and the offender&#39;s removal from the field &quot;for a set number of overs&quot;.

Any act of violence would mean removal for the remainder of the match, the MCC added.

&quot;We felt the time had come to introduce sanctions for poor player behaviour and research told us that a growing number of umpires at grass roots level were leaving the game because of it,&quot; Stephenson said.

In the first new Code of Laws since 2000, batsmen will also be protected from &#39;bouncing bat&#39; run-outs in a rule change.

Players can no longer be run out if their bat loses contact with the pitch after being grounded behind the popping crease.

The MCC, which is based at Lord&#39;s in London, has been the custodian of the laws of cricket since they were first created in 1787.

(Reuters)

The new rules come into effect from October

Big bats are set to be consigned to the wood-heap and umpires will be given the power to send off players from October as part of cricket's new Code of Laws, the Marylebone Cricket Club has said. The maximum dimensions of a bat will be restricted to 108mm in width, 67mm in depth and with 40mm edges according to the new code which will be issued on October 1, the MCC said in a media release. The rule change decided after consultations with players, manufacturers and global governing bodies, is in response to growing concerns about the imbalance between bat and ball. Bat sizes have grown pronouncedly in recent years, with thicker edges regularly sending mis-hit shots to the boundaries, much to the chagrin of bowlers. "The bat size issue has been heavily scrutinised and discussed in recent years," the MCC's John Stephenson said. umpires will be given more powers to punish poor player behaviour, starting with official warnings through to temporary or permanent dismissal from the field × "We believe the maximum dimensions we have set will help redress the balance between bat and ball, while still allowing the explosive, big hitting we all enjoy." In other changes, umpires will be given more powers to punish poor player behaviour, starting with official warnings through to temporary or permanent dismissal from the field. Offences including throwing the ball at a player or making deliberate physical contact with an opponent would result in the "immediate awarding of five penalty runs to the opposing team", the MCC said. More serious offences, including "intimidating" an umpire or threatening to assault another player, team official or spectator, would mean five penalty runs and the offender's removal from the field "for a set number of overs". Any act of violence would mean removal for the remainder of the match, the MCC added. "We felt the time had come to introduce sanctions for poor player behaviour and research told us that a growing number of umpires at grass roots level were leaving the game because of it," Stephenson said. In the first new Code of Laws since 2000, batsmen will also be protected from 'bouncing bat' run-outs in a rule change. Players can no longer be run out if their bat loses contact with the pitch after being grounded behind the popping crease. The MCC, which is based at Lord's in London, has been the custodian of the laws of cricket since they were first created in 1787. (Reuters)

New cricket rules: Umpires to send off players, no more big bats

Cricket pitches need to be more bowler-friendly if the rising imbalance between bat and ball is to be addressed, Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar has said. 
 
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) world cricket committee on Tuesday recommended limitations on the thickness and depth of bats amid concerns that the sport has tilted heavily in favour of the batsmen in recent years.&nbsp;A report commissioned by the MCC, the guardian of the game&#39;s laws, in 2014 found the thickness of bats had marginally increased in the last century and that edges had broadened by 300 per cent, meaning even mistimed shots could still find the boundary. 
 
Tendulkar, who quit international cricket in 2013 as the game&#39;s most prolific batsman both in tests and the 50-over format, demanded more assistance for the bowlers from the playing surface. 
 
&quot;The wickets need to change; they need to be more helpful for bowlers,&quot; Tendulkar said.&nbsp;&quot;In T20s, the greatest of bowlers are being reverse-swept. Three-hundred is no longer competitive in ODIs.&nbsp;So there should be at least one format where bowlers have a better chance of executing their skills and making it more interesting for spectators.&nbsp;I don&#39;t think it&#39;s got much to do with bats, but I&#39;m sure people on the (relevant) panel will be able to look into it.&quot; 
 
Tendulkar&#39;s views echoed the sentiments of Australian opener David Warner who said last week that flat pitches rather than bats with thicker edges are the reason batsmen have the upper hand in test cricket. 
 
Tendulkar was part of the panel that recommended Anil Kumble for the India coach&#39;s job and he expects the team to benefit from the vast experience of the former leg-spinner. 
 
&quot;A fabulous player, a hard competitor and will not make any compromises on the field,&quot; Tendulkar told ESPNcricinfo. &quot;He will be out there to win each and every moment.&nbsp;He played for almost 20 years, so there is plenty to share. I&#39;ll just tell the players to grasp as much information from Anil as possible.&quot; 
 
Kumble, who came out to bowl with a bandaged jaw in a 2002 Antigua test, can also teach the players how to handle adversity, said Tendulkar. 
 
&quot;There are always big, crunch moments in any match and how to approach those moments is important,&quot; Tendulkar said.&nbsp;&quot;In sport, over a period of time what you learn is not every day you are successful, sometimes you have to face failures.&nbsp;It is all about being a tough character and be able to stand back on your feet again and to compete the next day. Every day is a fresh day, new beginning. That is something I feel Anil will teach them.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)

Marylebone Cricket Club world cricket committee recommended limitations on thickness and depth of bats which give upper hand to batsmen

Cricket pitches need to be more bowler-friendly if the rising imbalance between bat and ball is to be addressed, Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar has said. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) world cricket committee on Tuesday recommended limitations on the thickness and depth of bats amid concerns that the sport has tilted heavily in favour of the batsmen in recent years. A report commissioned by the MCC, the guardian of the game's laws, in 2014 found the thickness of bats had marginally increased in the last century and that edges had broadened by 300 per cent, meaning even mistimed shots could still find the boundary. Tendulkar, who quit international cricket in 2013 as the game's most prolific batsman both in tests and the 50-over format, demanded more assistance for the bowlers from the playing surface. "The wickets need to change; they need to be more helpful for bowlers," Tendulkar said. "In T20s, the greatest of bowlers are being reverse-swept. Three-hundred is no longer competitive in ODIs. So there should be at least one format where bowlers have a better chance of executing their skills and making it more interesting for spectators. I don't think it's got much to do with bats, but I'm sure people on the (relevant) panel will be able to look into it." Tendulkar's views echoed the sentiments of Australian opener David Warner who said last week that flat pitches rather than bats with thicker edges are the reason batsmen have the upper hand in test cricket. Tendulkar was part of the panel that recommended Anil Kumble for the India coach's job and he expects the team to benefit from the vast experience of the former leg-spinner. "A fabulous player, a hard competitor and will not make any compromises on the field," Tendulkar told ESPNcricinfo. "He will be out there to win each and every moment. He played for almost 20 years, so there is plenty to share. I'll just tell the players to grasp as much information from Anil as possible." Kumble, who came out to bowl with a bandaged jaw in a 2002 Antigua test, can also teach the players how to handle adversity, said Tendulkar. "There are always big, crunch moments in any match and how to approach those moments is important," Tendulkar said. "In sport, over a period of time what you learn is not every day you are successful, sometimes you have to face failures. It is all about being a tough character and be able to stand back on your feet again and to compete the next day. Every day is a fresh day, new beginning. That is something I feel Anil will teach them." (Reuters)

Former Indian cricketer Tendulkar calls for bowler-friendly pitches