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Laminated bats now legal across recreational cricket: Details here
03 Feb 2026

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has announced a significant change to the Laws of Cricket, allowing bats that were previously considered illegal.

The amendment is likely to make the game more affordable for amateur players amid rising costs.

The new rules will come into effect on October 1, 2026, as part of a revised edition of the Laws being published by the MCC.

Laminated bats permitted in open-age recreational cricket
Bat innovation

The MCC will now permit laminated bats, also known as Type D bats, made from up to three wooden pieces in open-age recreational cricket.

These bats were previously only allowed in junior cricket.

The decision comes as part of an effort to combat the rising costs of bats globally.

Lamination usually involves backing the English willow face with cheaper and less-performing willow, like Kashmir.

Performance advantage 'marginal at best'
Game dynamics

Fraser Stewart, MCC Laws manager, said the decision was made after extensive testing of these bats with manufacturers.

He added that any performance advantage from Type D bats would be "marginal at best."

The move is aimed at making cricket more affordable for lower levels without changing the game's dynamics.

It also addresses sustainability concerns due to the scarcity and rising prices of English willow.

Bats made from alternative materials under consideration
Material exploration

According to the BBC, the MCC is also considering bats made from alternative materials. However, it is cautious about upsetting the game's balance or increasing injury risks.

Notably, the University of Cambridge scientists have suggested bamboo as a potential substitute for willow in bat manufacturing.

Graphite-backed bats, which were banned in 2006, have also been proposed as a possible solution.

Other significant changes in the laws
Rule modifications

The latest edition of the Laws will also see some other significant changes. These include the removal of gendered language and simplification for non-English speakers.

In multi-day matches, if a wicket falls, the final over will not end until it is completed.

Junior and women's cricket balls now have tighter, standardized size and weight limits. These will have three categories - Sizes 1, 2, and 3 - to ensure consistency across all levels.