The landscape of cricket fielding is undergoing a significant transformation. The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has introduced updated regulations concerning boundary catches, particularly those involving fielders leaping over the boundary rope. This move follows controversies surrounding spectacular catches in recent matches, including Michael Neser’s catch in the 2023-24 Big Bash League. Under the new rules, a fielder outside the boundary rope is limited to a single contact with the ball while airborne. To complete the catch legally, the fielder must return fully inside the boundary. Relay catches also face stricter rules. If the assisting fielder crosses the boundary rope before the catch is completed, the batting team will be awarded a boundary. These changes aim to bring clarity and fairness to fielding efforts, reducing ambiguity and controversy.
