The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced major changes to its Playing Conditions, targeting time-wasting, ball standards and fielding rules.
The updated regulations will apply to international series beginning on October 1 or later. Ongoing series will continue under the previous rules.
One key change affects batters in men’s cricket. A batter who is not ready within the prescribed time will receive a warning for the first offence. A second offence will bring a final warning. A third and every subsequent offence will result in five penalty runs for the fielding side. Repeated violations may also trigger Code of Conduct action.
The ICC has introduced separate size and weight specifications for men’s, women’s and junior cricket balls. The move aims to establish clearer standards for each category.
Fielding rules have also been clarified. A misfield will not be treated as an overthrow unless the player attempts to direct the ball toward the stumps to prevent runs or complete a run-out. Umpires will also have greater discretion when deciding whether a ball is finally settled.
For run-outs and stumpings, a fielder must have complete control of the ball. Simply touching it while the stumps are broken will not be enough.
In Test cricket, pink balls may be used in daytime matches by mutual agreement to reduce delays caused by bad light. The decision must be made before the Test begins.
The final over of a day will continue until completed if conditions remain suitable, even when a wicket falls.
In T20Is, the interval is now fixed at 15 minutes but may be reduced to 10 minutes after lost playing time. The leg-side wide trial has also become permanent in ODI and T20I cricket.
ICC officials said the changes aim to improve consistency, clarity and the pace of modern cricket.
