Archive · 14 Jun 2025
Cricket Bans 'Bunny Hop' Catches: New Fielding Rule Clarified
Cricket is updating its rules!
The 'bunny hop' catch, where a fielder touches the ball multiple times while in the air outside the boundary, is now against the rules.
A fielder can only touch the ball once while outside the boundary and must be grounded inside the boundary after that.
The rule is also changing how relay catches work.
If a fielder deflects the ball outside the boundary and doesn't get back inside the field of play, a boundary will be scored.
These changes will start in June, but the official rule change will be effective from October 2026.
MCC bans 'bunny hop' catches, multiple airborne touches outside the boundary now illegal.
Fielders making second contact after jumping beyond the boundary must land inside the field.
The rule applies to relay catches; a boundary is awarded if a fielder parries outside and doesn't return.
Revised rule implemented for World Test Championship starting June 17.
Changes to laws will be effective from October 2026.
- Who
- Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
- What
- MCC outlaws 'bunny hop' catches, limiting fielder's airborne touches.
- When
- Effective June 17 (Tests), October 2026 (Laws)
- Where
- International Cricket Matches.
- Why
- To clarify rules and ensure fairness.
- Governing Body
- MCC
- Rule Change
- 'Bunny hop' catch ban
- Enforcement Date
- June 17 (Tests), October 2026 (Laws)
- Focus
- Limiting airborne touches by fielders beyond boundary
Sources
Big Blow to Spectacular Boundary Catches: MCC Outlaws 'Bunny Hops'
MCC Brings Strict New Rule! 'Bunny-Hop' Catches To Be Illegal In Cricket
MCC Introduces New Rule for Boundary-Line Catches
Cricket’s new fielding law change: What is the boundary rule amended by MCC that will come into effect next week?
NOT OUT! 'Bunny hops' boundary catches will be illegal!
Marylebone Cricket Club outlaws 'bunny hop' boundary catches, new rule to come into effect this month
MCC brings major change in boundary line catching: What is it & when will it come into effect? What is Bunny Hop catch?
ICC tweaks two-ball rule, tightens concussion protocols
MCC outlaws ‘bunny hop’ catches; approves new two-ball, concussion rules
