MCC updates fielding rules, introduces stern regulations for boundary catches

A splendid catch taken by Michael Neser in the Big Bash League two years ago continues to enthrall fans around the world to this day. However, the catch, taken by Neser and requiring a collective effort from Tom Banton and Matt Renshaw, caught the keen eyes of the ICC. Now, in a new step taken by the apex cricket council, the catch, also referred to as the 'bunny hop' catch, is now illegal. In a major move, the MCC has revised its stance on boundary catches, officially declaring the ‘bunny hop’ attempts illegal. The regulation is set to come into effect later this month, meaning that eye-catching boundary catches like these will no longer be considered valid going forward.

MCC fielding rule update terms the 'bunny hop' catch illegal

The law update will be reflected in the ICC’s playing conditions starting this month and will be formally added to the MCC's official Laws of Cricket by October 2026. According to the revised rule, if a fielder who is airborne manages to touch the ball while positioned beyond the boundary, they must return to the field of play to complete the catch for it to be counted as legitimate.

This change directly addresses the type of dismissal famously pulled off by Michael Neser during the BBL in 2023. In that instance, Neser caught the ball while mid-air, but his momentum took him over the boundary. As he was airborne, he flicked the ball back inside the field, landed outside the ropes, and then jumped again, this time palming the ball back to a teammate before hopping back into the field to secure the dismissal. Though the batter was ruled out, the incident stirred significant debate and left the batter visibly frustrated.

Under the current Law 19.5.2, a fielder's last point of contact with the ground before touching the ball must be within the field of play, a clause that remains unchanged in the updated version. The rule also specifies that a fielder cannot simultaneously touch the ball and the ground outside the boundary. If both conditions are met and the catch is clean, it stands as valid.

Earlier this year, the MCC had reportedly sent a recommendation to the ICC describing Neser’s effort as a “bunny hop,” and raised concerns over the fairness of such plays. That note became a key trigger for the re-evaluation of the boundary catch rule. As part of the new WTC cycle, beginning June 17, the updated law will be included in the ICC's playing conditions. The full implementation, however, will take place in October 2026, aligning with the ICC’s next scheduled round of rule changes.