The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has announced changes to the Laws of Cricket to allow the use of previously banned laminated bats in amateur matches from October 2026.
The move is aimed at making cricket more affordable as the price of English willow continues to rise worldwide.
Under the new rules, bats made from up to three pieces of wood — known as Type D bats — will now be permitted in open-age recreational cricket.
Rising Costs Force Policy Shift
Until now, Type D bats were only allowed in junior cricket, while senior players were restricted to single-piece willow blades.
The MCC said growing shortages of English willow and increasing demand, especially from South Asia, have pushed bat prices to record levels.
Some premium bats now cost close to £1,000, making the sport difficult to access for many grassroots players.
Minimal Impact on Performance Promised
MCC Laws manager Fraser Stewart said the new bats were tested extensively with manufacturers before approval.
He explained that laminated bats offer little performance advantage and will not change the balance of the game.
Manufacturers have welcomed the decision, saying it will help them produce affordable equipment without compromising quality.
Other Law Changes Announced by MCC
Alongside bat regulations, the MCC will introduce several other updates in the 2026 law book.
These include removing gendered language, simplifying wording, and ensuring consistent ball sizes in junior and women’s cricket.
Other changes cover boundary catches, wicketkeeping positions, short runs, and clearer definitions of overthrows and dead balls.
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