New ICC Rules Set to Transform International Men's Cricket
Introduction of New Regulations
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a series of new regulations for international men's cricket. Some of these changes are already in effect for the ongoing World Test Championship (2025–27), while others will come into play starting July 2, 2025, particularly for One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 matches.
Changes to Test Matches and Stop Clock Implementation
Among the significant updates is the introduction of a stop clock rule for Test matches. The fielding team is now required to commence a new over within 60 seconds of the previous over's conclusion. Failure to comply will result in two warnings, followed by a penalty of five runs awarded to the batting team. This measure aims to combat slow over rates, with warnings resetting after every 80 overs.
Revised Saliva Rule
The regulations surrounding the use of saliva have also been updated. While the use of saliva remains banned, umpires will not be obligated to replace the ball immediately if it is used. The ball will only be replaced if it becomes excessively wet or shiny, with the decision left to the umpires. If the use of saliva is deemed intentional and affects the match, five runs will be awarded to the batting side.
Modifications to DRS and Review Procedures
Another notable change involves the Decision Review System (DRS). If a batter is given out caught behind and the UltraEdge shows only pad contact, the umpire can now refer the decision for LBW. If ball-tracking indicates an umpire's call and the initial decision was out, the batter will remain out, a shift from the previous rule where they would have been not out.
Joint Reviews and No-Ball Adjustments
In cases of joint reviews, where both umpires and players seek a review, the third umpire will now assess the decisions in the order they occurred. For instance, if there is an LBW appeal followed by a run-out, the LBW will be reviewed first. If the batter is out in the initial review, the run-out will not be examined. Additionally, regarding no-balls, the third umpire will verify the cleanliness of the catch. If the catch is deemed clean, only one run will be credited for the no-ball; if not, the batting team will receive all runs scored.
ODI Ball Usage and Short Run Penalty
Starting July 2, in ODIs, only one ball will be used from the 35th over onward, rather than two balls from different ends. This change aims to help bowlers achieve reverse swing and maintain the ball's condition. Furthermore, the short run rule has been revised. If a batter is found intentionally not grounding their bat while attempting to steal a run, the fielding team can choose which batter will face the next delivery, and the batting side will incur a five-run penalty.
Domestic Trial for Player Replacement
In first-class cricket, the ICC has approved a trial allowing full-time replacements for players who suffer serious injuries, such as from an external blow. The substitute must be similar to the injured player, akin to concussion substitutes. However, this trial does not extend to soft tissue injuries like muscle pulls, and countries can choose whether to implement this trial in their domestic competitions.