The Laws of Cricket — History, MCC, and How the Rules Evolved Explained
The Laws of Cricket have governed the game since 1744. The MCC has been custodian of the Laws since 1787, updating them as the game evolved through Test, ODI, and T20 cricket.
The First Laws — 1744
The earliest known written Laws of Cricket date to 1744, when a match in London was played 'according to the original articles as corrected and settled by the noblemen and gentlemen of Kent, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Middlesex, and London.' These early laws established the basic framework: two wickets, a ball, a bat, fielders, and a method of scoring runs. The pitch length (22 yards — one chain) and the concept of dismissals were included.
MCC — Custodian Since 1787
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), founded at Lord's Cricket Ground in 1787, became the custodian of the Laws and remained so for over 200 years. The MCC published formal codifications in 1788 and updated them periodically. The Laws governed everything from ball weight to fielding restrictions. In 2017, ownership of the Laws passed formally from MCC to the ICC — but MCC retains a consultative role and its name remains associated with cricket's history.
Major Rule Changes Through the Eras
The Laws evolved significantly. Overarm bowling was legalised in 1864, replacing underarm. Six runs for a hit over the boundary without bouncing was introduced. The Ibw rule evolved. Declarations became permitted. The follow-on was introduced. The modern 42 Laws (now 41 after restructuring) cover everything from the toss to the method of dismissal. The 2000 Code of Laws and 2017 revision addressed no-balls, fielding restrictions in limited-overs cricket, and the DRS.
Frequently asked questions
Who wrote the first Laws of Cricket?
The earliest known written Laws of Cricket were established in 1744 by noblemen and gentlemen representing counties including Kent, Hampshire, Surrey, and London.
Who owns the Laws of Cricket?
The ICC now has formal ownership of the Laws of Cricket since 2017. The MCC at Lord's historically owned and curated the Laws from 1787 and retains a consultative role.