Xtra Time Web Desk: The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) on Wednesday announced changes to the laws of cricket to encourage gender-equality. The rule maker of the game announced the term “batter” and “batters”, rather than “batsman” or “batsmen’
The changes were approved by the MCC sub-committee and will be into immediate effective. The Lords’ official website stated, “MCC believes that 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.”
It further added, “A number of Governing Bodies and media organizations 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.
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.”