DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made significant changes to the playing conditions across all formats. The new playing conditions will come into effect for all international series beginning October 1.
ICC Drops Major Cricket Rule Changes
Penalty for Batters
Stricter action will be taken against batters who waste time. If a batter commits a third time-wasting violation, the fielding team will be awarded 5 penalty runs.
New Ball Specifications
New specifications have been introduced for the size and weight of balls used in women’s international cricket. Separate specifications for the size and weight of balls have also been defined for men’s, women’s, and junior cricket.
Overthrow Law
Any ambiguity surrounding the overthrow law has been removed. From now on, a throw made while attempting to stop runs or execute a run-out toward the stumps will be considered an overthrow.
Complete Control of the Ball
For a run-out or stumping, the fielder must have complete control of the ball. This is intended to provide greater clarity when making decisions in such situations.
Pink-Ball Experiment
The ICC has also introduced an experimental decision to use the pink ball in day-night Test matches to reduce the amount of playing time lost due to poor light.
Agreement Between Both Teams
Both teams must agree before the start of the match to use the pink ball. Once the use of the pink ball has been agreed upon, the decision cannot be changed during the match.
No Change from Red Ball to Pink Ball
Teams will not be allowed to switch from the red ball to the pink ball after the match has started.
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If a wicket falls during the final over of the scheduled day’s play, the day’s play will not necessarily have to end immediately. Instead, play can continue until the scheduled playing time is completed.
In T20 internationals, there will now be a fixed 15-minute interval, while various other rules and conditions have also been revised under the new playing conditions.
