What is the Spirit of Cricket in 2018? | MCC/Lord's

SPIRIT OF CRICKET

In addition to remaining responsible for the Laws of Cricket, MCC has also long believed that the game should be played in accordance with its traditional 'spirit'.

https://www.lords.org/mcc/the-laws-of-cricket/spirit-of-cricket

 

A PREAMBLE

IN THE LATE 1990S, TWO DISTINGUISHED MCC MEMBERS (AND EX-ENGLAND CAPTAINS), TED DEXTER AND LORD (COLIN) COWDREY, SOUGHT TO ENSHRINE THE 'SPIRIT OF CRICKET' IN THE GAME'S LAWS.

This would remind players of their responsibility for ensuring that cricket is always played in a truly sportsmanlike manner.

 

The Dexter/Cowdrey initiative proved successful. When the 2000 Code of Laws was introduced, it included, for the first time, a Preamble on the Spirit of Cricket.

 

"Cricket is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its Laws but also within the Spirit of the Game. Any action which is seen to abuse this Spirit causes injury to the game itself".

 

The Preamble goes on to explain the roles and responsibilities of captains, players and umpires in respecting and upholding the Spirit of Cricket.

 

Since the 2000 Code was published, MCC has promoted the new Laws - and the Spirit of Cricket - as widely as possible, both in Britain and overseas. As a result, cricketers, right across the world, are increasingly aware that they should not merely obey the game's Laws but safeguard its Spirit.

THE LAW

Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact that it should be played not only according to the Laws, but also within the Spirit of Cricket.  The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, match officials and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.

 

• Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket.
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• Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpires.
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• Play hard and play fair.
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• Accept the umpire’s decision.
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• Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct, and encourage others to do likewise.
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• Show self-discipline, even when things go against you.
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• Congratulate the opposition on their successes, and enjoy those of your own team.
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• Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result.
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• Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket.