MCC announces immediate switch to use of gender-neutral terms in Laws of Cricket

The MCC have announced that they have amended the Laws of Cricket to use the gender-neutral terms 'batter' and 'batters' instead of 'batsman' and 'batsmen'.

In a statement, the MCC said they believe "the use of gender-neutral terminology helps reinforce cricket’s status as an inclusive game for all.

"The amendments are a natural evolution from work already undertaken in this area as well as an essential part of MCC’s global responsibility to the sport."

The changes have been made immediately to the online editions of the Laws of Cricket, while the terms will be used in print when the laws are next officially updated.

The statement continues: "A number of Governing Bodies and media organisations are already using the term 'batter' in their Playing Conditions and reporting.

"We expect and encourage others to adopt the updated terminology following today’s announcement of the change to the Laws.

"At the time of the last redraft in 2017 it was agreed, following consultation with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and key figures within women’s cricket, that the terminology would remain as 'batsman' and 'batsmen' within the Laws of the game.

"The changes announced today reflect the wider usage of the terms 'batter' and 'batters' which has occurred in cricketing circles in the intervening period.

"The move to 'batter' is a natural progression, aligning with the terms of bowlers and fielders that already sit within the Laws."

Jamie Cox, the MCC's Assistant Secretary (Cricket and Operations), said: "MCC believes in cricket being a game for all and this move recognises the changing landscape of the game in modern times.

"Use of the term 'batter' is a natural evolution in our shared cricketing language and the terminology has already been adopted by many of those involved in the sport.

"It is the right time for this adjustment to be recognised formally and we are delighted, as the Guardians of the Laws, to announce these changes today."

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