ICC Introduces New Two-Ball Rule and Concussion Substitute Policy in ODIs
Significant Changes to ODI Rules
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has implemented a notable adjustment to the two-ball rule in men's One-Day Internationals (ODIs). This decision was made to enhance the competition between batters and bowlers, following a recommendation from the ICC's men's cricket committee, which was subsequently approved by the chief executive committee.
Starting from July 2, the new regulations will see two new balls introduced at the beginning of each innings. However, this will only apply until the 34th over. After this point, the fielding team must choose one of the two balls to use from both ends for the remainder of the innings. The ICC aims to restore balance in the 50-over format with this change.
Single Ball Usage for Shortened Matches
In instances where a match is reduced to 25 overs or fewer from the start, only one ball will be utilized throughout the innings. This marks a departure from the previous rule of using two balls for the entire duration. The ICC believes this adjustment will assist bowlers in achieving better grip and movement during the later stages of the game.
Updates to Concussion Substitute Regulations
Alongside the two-ball rule modification, the ICC has also revised its concussion substitute regulations. Teams are now required to provide a list of potential concussion substitutes to the match referee prior to the match. This list must consist of one batter, one wicketkeeper, one spin bowler, one seam bowler, and an all-rounder. If a player sustains a head injury and exhibits signs of a concussion, the match referee will authorize a 'like-for-like' replacement from this designated pool.
This update follows a controversial incident in January when India substituted batter Shivam Dube with all-rounder Harshit Rana during a match against England, where Rana took 3 wickets for 33 runs. The new policy aims to prevent similar fairness concerns in the future. If a substitute player also suffers a concussion, the match referee has the authority to approve a replacement from outside the original list.
Additionally, the playing conditions have been updated to ban the practice of 'bunny hopping'—jumping outside the boundary rope to complete a catch. This change aligns with the MCC's recent ruling against this tactic.