🗓️ Year: 2025
🏟️ Governing Body: MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club)

📌 What Was the Bunny Hop Catch?

The "bunny hop boundary catch" referred to a maneuver where a fielder, while catching the ball near the boundary, would jump from within the field, tap or throw the ball back in the air before touching the ground outside, and then come back in to complete the catch. Though athletic, it sparked debates about fairness.

🛑 What Changed in 2025?

As per the updated Law 19 – Boundary in 2025:

  • A fielder must have both feet grounded inside the boundary at the first contact with the ball.
  • If the fielder is airborne outside the boundary while touching the ball (even if the catch is completed afterward), the catch is deemed invalid.

🎯 Why the Change?

  • To preserve the traditional spirit of fielding and catching.
  • To prevent excessive use of airborne tactics that complicated umpiring decisions.
  • To align rules more clearly with slow-motion replays and modern broadcasting.

✅ Impact on the Game

This rule change encourages safer, more grounded boundary catches and minimizes controversial dismissals during high-stakes matches.