Mumbai: In line with the recent rule changes recommended by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the Lord’s-based bcci has made changes to its playing conditions for the 2026–27 domestic season, according to which the final over of the day must be completed regardless of the fall of any wicket during the over.According to a note on playing conditions for the upcoming season sent by the BCCI to state associations (TOI has a copy), the BCCI has said that as per MCC rules, the final over of the day must be completed regardless of the fall of wickets. According to clause 12.5.2, “The last over of the day’s play shall now be completed, even if no wicket falls during this period.”MCC’s reason for the change noted, “Significant changes for multi-day cricket. Prevents batting teams from avoiding sending in a new batsman at the end of the day.” This playing condition, of course, pertains to the multi-day (red-ball) format.The BCCI’s 15-page note, called Summary of Changes in Playing Conditions to State Associations – 2026-27, mentioned, “Whatever changes come into force in the 2026 edition (fourth edition of the 2017 Code of Laws), all gender language (he/she, she/him, etc.), other relevant changes as discussed in the BCCI are being incorporated while drafting this year’s playing conditions.”One significant change introduced by the MCC’s changed rules is that a bowler who delivers a deliberate front-foot no-ball and a deliberate non-landing delivery will now be barred from bowling for the rest of the match, rather than just the innings.The proposed rule change to playing conditions (41.8) is: “A bowler suspended for intentionally bowling a no ball on the front foot may not bowl the ball throughout the match.” According to a clarification from the MCC: “The penalty for a deliberate front foot no ball now applies to the entire match, not just an innings.”As per the changed rule, declarations and forfeitures are no longer allowed in the last innings of the match. The MCC’s argument is that, “It was used only to fabricate results and was considered bad for the game.”Other rule changes:– During one-day matches, the head coach will be allowed to enter the field during the drinks interval.– Leaving a race without intent to cheat is not a deliberate short race. Batsmen can turn back and give up runs even after crossing.– If the catch is not made due to obstruction then the fielding captain decides which batsman to face next.– The ball is ‘finally settled’ if it is in the hands of a fielder or someone stationary on the field. The ball no longer needs to be near the bowler or keeper for it to be ‘dead’. This gives more reasonable leeway to the umpires.– For clarity, a guideline for leg side wide in ODI and T20 games.– All fielders must be within bounds when the ball is bowled. This establishes the idea that play takes place within bounds and closes an avenue for leg-side sanctions.– The wicketkeeper should remain behind the wicket ‘immediately after delivery’ rather than ‘the moment the ball is in play’. The keeper will no longer be penalized for wearing gloves in front during the run-up.– Umpires must prevent and report further use of illegal equipment. The changed rule makes it clear that it is the responsibility of the umpires to prevent repeated use of illegal equipment.