DDCA Hosts MCC Workshop on New Cricket Laws Ahead of 2026 Implementation

The Delhi & District Cricket Association recently held a workshop led by the Marylebone Cricket Club to prepare umpires for the new Laws of Cricket coming into effect on October 1, 2026. The session included practical demonstrations and discussions on key changes, along with the launch of a new app available in multiple languages. This initiative aims to enhance the understanding of cricket laws among officials and align them with global standards. The workshop is part of a broader MCC initiative across India, with similar events planned in other major cities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 30, 2026, 23:58 IST

MCC Conducts Workshop for Umpires in Delhi

The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) organized a significant workshop on the MCC Laws of Cricket in New Delhi, aimed at its umpires in preparation for the new regulations set to be implemented on October 1, 2026.

This informative session was led by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), with Fraser Stewart, the Head of Cricket at MCC, and Jonny Singer facilitating the workshop. Participants engaged in discussions about the updates in the Laws, supported by practical video demonstrations and an interactive Q&A segment with DDCA officials and umpires.

A notable feature of the event was the introduction of the MCC Laws of Cricket app, which is now available in Hindi. This app also supports several other languages, including Urdu, Bengali, and Kannada, enhancing accessibility for cricket enthusiasts and officials throughout India.

Fraser Stewart expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s a pleasure to be in Delhi and interact with the DDCA umpires as we prepare for the new Laws. The session's practical approach allowed us to delve into the changes and their on-field applications. We are thrilled to launch the MCC Laws of Cricket app in Hindi, making the Laws more accessible to everyone who cherishes this sport in India.”

Shyam Sharma, Director of DDCA, acknowledged the support from Rohan Jaitley, the DDCA President, in facilitating this MCC initiative in Delhi. He emphasized the importance of such workshops for umpires to enhance their understanding of the Laws and align with international standards. Sharma also mentioned ongoing efforts to collaborate with ICC, BCCI, and other boards to improve officiating standards in Delhi cricket.

Some key changes discussed include:

– Standardized Equipment for Women’s & Junior Cricket: Introduction of stricter size and weight tolerances for cricket balls, with defined Size 1, 2, and 3 categories.

– Laminated Type D Bats Allowed: Type D laminated bats will be permitted in most adult/open-age cricket, subject to the regulations of the relevant governing body.

– Completion of Final Over: The last over of the day must be completed even if a wicket falls, as long as the playing conditions are suitable.

– Clearer Rules on Running & Boundary Catches: Batters can abandon a run without penalty unless the short running is intentional, and the 'bunny hop' technique for boundary catches has been eliminated.

– Enhanced Clarity on Overthrows, Dead Ball & Dismissals: The Laws now clearly define overthrows, specify when a ball is 'finally settled,' and provide better guidance on wicketkeeper positioning, hit wicket, run-outs, and stumpings.

The new Laws of Cricket will officially take effect on October 1, 2026. This workshop in Delhi is part of the MCC's broader initiative in India, with similar events planned in Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.