The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced significant changes to ICC cricket rules, aimed at enhancing transparency, game pace, and sportsmanship. These new rules have already come into effect for white-ball formats and the new cycle of the World Test Championship.
The most notable update to the ICC cricket rules is the implementation of a “stop clock.” In Test cricket, the fielding side must now begin the next over within one minute of the previous one ending. Failure to comply will result in two warnings, followed by a five-run penalty awarded to the batting team on the third offense.
For a full summary of the official Urdu announcement, you can also read the detailed report on News Alert here.
Another key change in the ICC cricket rules is the complete ban on using saliva on the ball. If a player deliberately uses saliva and it affects the condition of the ball, the batting side will be awarded five penalty runs. However, the ball will not be replaced.
The third amendment concerns short runs. If a batter deliberately takes a short run, not only will five penalty runs be awarded to the bowling side, but the decision on strike rotation will now also rest with the fielding team.
The fourth change involves catch reviews. The third umpire will now simultaneously check for both no-balls and clean catches. Even if a catch is taken off a no-ball, the incident will still be reviewed, and appropriate runs will be credited to the batting team.
It is also worth noting that the ICC is currently considering the introduction of four-day Test matches, with a decision expected soon.
