MCC opt against banning bouncers

A review into short-pitched deliveries was conducted due to concerns about the number of concussions sustained by batters

The MCC will not make any changes to the laws surrounding bouncers.

A review into short-pitched deliveries was conducted due to concerns about the number of, and potential for, concussions sustained by batters.

It was determined that a change to the existing law would "materially change the game" but they remain committed to monitoring the situation.

Under current rules, short-pitched bowling is permitted up to head height, with anything above head height called a no ball:

Law 41.6 Bowling of dangerous and unfair short-pitched deliveries

41.6.1 The bowling of short-pitched deliveries is dangerous if the bowler’s end umpire considers that, taking into consideration the skill of the striker, by their speed, length, height, and direction they are likely to inflict physical injury on him/her. The fact that the striker is wearing protective equipment shall be disregarded.

^{Jasprit Bumrah peppered tailender James Anderson (pictured) with bouncers in a Test match in 2021 [Mike Hewitt/Getty Images]}

41.6.2 The bowler’s end umpire may consider that the bowling of short-pitched deliveries, although not dangerous under 41.6.1, is unfair if they repeatedly pass above head height of the striker standing upright at the crease.

41.6.3 As soon as the umpire decides that the bowling of short-pitched deliveries has become dangerous under 41.6.1, or unfair under 41.6.2, he/she shall call and signal No ball. When the ball is dead, the umpire shall caution the bowler, indicating that this is a first and final warning, and inform the other umpire, the captain of the fielding side and the batters of what has occurred.

This caution shall apply to that bowler throughout the innings.

Jamie Cox, MCC assistant secretary (cricket), said: "As with any potential change in the Laws, the key aspect is to ensure that it is appropriate for all levels of the game. The results of the consultation show that short-pitched bowling, within the Laws, is an important part of the makeup of the sport and in fact, to change it would materially change the game."

He also encouraged umpires to consider the skill of the batter on strike, particularly in the lower order, and to remove repeat offenders from the attack, continuing: "Given that the Laws allow for umpires to intervene should they believe that there is a safety consideration with the batter on strike, we encourage them to use their discretion and ensure that any risk of injury is minimised.

"We will also continue to educate players and officials about the risks of concussion through our website and eLearning portal, with the aim of the Laws consistently being applied in a safe manner."

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