Overarm bowling was officially legalized in 1864, when the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) amended the Laws of Cricket to permit bowlers to deliver the ball with the arm raised above the shoulder.
Before that:
Underarm bowling was the original style.
Roundarm bowling became popular in the early 19th century and was legalized in 1835.
After years of debate and gradual acceptance, overarm bowling was finally made legal in 1864.
This rule change transformed cricket, allowing bowlers to generate greater pace, bounce, and variety, and it remains the standard bowling style used today.


