These Laws came into force on October 1 2015, as part of the 6th Edition of the 2000 Code of Laws, and are the only changes from the 5th Edition from 2013.
Three existing Laws: 40.4 Movement by wicket-keeper, 41.7 Movement by fielders and 41.8 Definition of significant movement have been rationalised and redrafted into two new Laws: 40.4 Movement by wicket-keeper and 41.7 Movement by fielders other than the wicket-keeper, so that the existing Law 41.8 is deleted.
Law 40.4 Movement by wicket-keeper
After the ball comes into play and before it reaches the striker, it is unfair if the wicket-keeper significantly alters his position in relation to the striker’s wicket, except for the following:
(i) movement of a few paces forward for a slower delivery, unless in so doing it brings him within reach of the wicket.
(ii) lateral movement in response to the direction in which the ball has been delivered.
(iii) movement in response to the stroke that the striker is playing or that his actions suggest he intends to play. However, the provisions of Law 40.3 (Position of wicket-keeper) shall apply.
In the event of unfair movement by the wicket-keeper, either umpire shall call and signal Dead ball.
Law 41.7 Movement by fielders other than the wicket-keeper
Any movement by any fielder, excluding the wicket-keeper, after the ball comes into play and before the ball reaches the striker, is unfair except for the following:
(ii) movement by any fielder, other than a close fielder, towards the striker or the striker’s wicket that does not significantly alter the position of the fielder.
(iii) movement by any fielder in response to the stroke that the striker is playing or that his actions suggest he intends to play.
Notwithstanding (iii) above, in all circumstances Law 41.5 (Limitation of on side fielders) shall apply.
In the event of such unfair movement, either umpire shall call and signal Dead ball.
Note also the provisions of Law 42.4 (Deliberate attempt to distract striker). See also Law 40.4 (Movement by wicket-keeper).
(Note – the existing Law 41.8 has been deleted.)
