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n 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 and the Spirit of Cricket was
incorporated into the Laws of Cricket in the year 2000.

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 Laws and the Spirit of
Cricket around the world - from the grassroots of the game to the elite arena. The
Club is grateful for the support of some of the world’s best cricketers and those
famous for playing the game in the right way. MS Dhoni, Mahela Jayawardene,
Brett Lee and Andrew Flintoff are four prime examples.

Central to the MCC Spirit of Cricket message for all, however, is respect. Respect
for one’s captain, opponent and the umpires and respect for this great game.
Cricket should be played hard and it should be played to win. But respect for the
game must prevail.

As cricket embraces Twenty20 it is essential that this respect for the Spirit of
Cricket is embraced at all levels of the game; the very best as represented in the

DLF Indian Premier League and by every state, county, club and school cricketer
throughout the world.

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