ICC to Introduce New Rule to Ban ‘Bunny Hopping’ Boundary Catches After MCC Announcement
The **International Cricket Council (ICC)** is set to introduce a new rule that will render **’bunny hopping’ boundary catches** illegal, following changes announced by the **Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC)**.
The new regulation will be incorporated into the **ICC’s playing conditions** by the end of this month and will officially become part of the MCC’s laws in **October 2026**.
Under the updated rule, a fielder can now catch the ball while airborne outside the boundary, but must return to the field before completing the catch. This modification comes after incidents in the **Big Bash League (BBL)**, particularly one involving **Brisbane Heat’s Michael Neser** and **Sydney Sixers’ Jordan Silk**.
In the controversial incident, while attempting a catch near the boundary, Neser caught the ball but crossed the boundary line. He then tossed the ball into the air, and while still airborne, he managed to bring the ball back to the boundary and complete the catch.
The MCC’s decision aims to clarify and enforce the integrity of catches near the boundary, preventing such controversial plays in the future. The change is expected to impact not only **BBL** matches but also international cricket, ensuring that catches taken in such circumstances are legally recognized and within the spirit of the game.
