ISLAMABAD: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced major changes to the laws governing One-Day Internationals (ODI) and Test matches, with the new regulations coming into effect later this month.
From July 2, the long-standing two-ball rule in ODIs will be amended. Under the revised rules, two new balls will now be used only until the end of the 34th over. From the 35th over, one ball will be used for the remainder of the innings – effectively ending the use of two new balls in all 50 overs, a policy in place since 2011.
Cricket analysts have long debated the impact of two new balls on ODIs, particularly its impact on reverse swing and spin in the latter stages of the innings. The new rule is being seen as a move to bring more balance between bat and ball, especially during the death overs.
In addition to the changes to ODIs, the ICC also approved a rule for Test matches — which will come into effect from June 17 — under which teams must name concussion replacement players before the start of each match.
These replacements must be nominated by playing a role, which could include a batsman, fast bowler, spinner, or wicketkeeper, and are allowed to replace a concussed player under the ICC’s concussion protocol.
The changes are intended to increase transparency and improve player safety without disrupting the competitive balance of the game.