The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the guardian of cricket’s laws, has announced new playing conditions effective from 2026, introducing several important changes across formats. Among them, a major rule change in Test cricket is set to significantly impact how matches unfold at the end of a day’s play.

Under the revised law, play will no longer stop immediately if a wicket falls in the final over of the day. Instead, the match will continue until the last over is fully completed, regardless of a dismissal.

What Has Changed in Test Cricket?

As per Law 12.5.2 of the MCC’s updated regulations, a Test match will not be called off simply because a wicket falls in the final over of the day. Earlier, if a dismissal occurred late in the last over, umpires often ended play immediately, allowing the incoming batter to resume the next morning.

Now, the remaining deliveries of that over must be bowled, even after a wicket falls.

Why This Rule Matters

This change is expected to increase pressure on the batting side, especially late in the day, as new batters will be forced to face deliveries immediately rather than getting overnight protection. At the same time, it gives the fielding team a stronger chance to capitalize on momentum, potentially turning matches more dramatically.

The MCC believes this amendment will add excitement, fairness, and competitive balance to Test cricket—especially in closely fought games.

When Will the Rule Apply?

The new law will come into effect from 2026, after which it will be followed in international and domestic Test matches governed by MCC laws.