The preamble to the laws of cricket is the preamble, the spirit of the game. Ok, so there are laws, better known as rules, so the umpires make their decisions based on the laws of cricket. So when we see the Alex Carey stumping of Jonny Bairstow, it was within the laws of the game and rightly given out. All the spirit of cricket does is undermine the rules of cricket.

So let’s take a look at the spirit of cricket as published by the MCC, let us see how the MCC fared here.
a) Did MCC members show respect to the players forced to walk through the Long Room? No.
b) Did they respect the authority of the umpire? No.
c) What about creating a positive atmosphere? No. Show self discipline even when things go against you? No.
d) Congratulate the opposition on their successes? No.

So who is complaining about the spirit of the game again? Oh, no leg to stand on here.

1) Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket.
2) Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpires.
3) Play hard and play fair.
4) Accept the umpire’s decision.
5) Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct, and encourage others to do likewise.
6) Show self-discipline, even when things go against you.
7) Congratulate the opposition on their successes, and enjoy those of your own team.
8) Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result.
9) Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket.