Association of Cricket Officials Issue 29 | Page 5

1744–2017 From the First Code of Laws to Today 2017 marks the first new Code of Laws published in 17 years by the MCC. All members will find enclosed with this issue a copy of the new Laws book, which will come into effect next season. In light of these notable changes, we have decided to look back to the ‘first’ Code of Laws, as well as providing you with an insight into how the Laws are actually made. Star and Garter, 1744 For the first time in the game’s history, several cricket clubs assembled at the Star and Garter in Pall Mall in order to enact a common Code of Laws. Up until this moment the Laws had largely been agreed orally, and it would not be until 1755 until the Laws were actually printed. Below are some of these ‘original’ Laws: The Game of Cricket The pitching of the first wicket is to be determined by the toss of a piece of money. When the first wicket is pitch'd, and the popping crease cut, which must be exactly three feet 10 inches from the wicket, the other wicket is to be pitch'd directly opposite, at 22 yards distance, and the other popping crease cut three feet 10 inches before it. The stumps must be 22 inches long, and the bail six inches. The ball must weigh between five and six ounces. The Marylebone Cricket Club has been the custodians of the Laws of the game since its formation in 1787. When the wickets are both pitch'd, and the creases cut, the party that wins the toss-up may order which side shall go inn (sic) first, at his option. email us at [email protected] contact us on 0121 446 2710 5