September 30, Kathmandu – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has implemented new regulations aimed at accelerating the pace of the game and introducing additional protocols. These rules will take effect for all international series starting from October 1 onward.
According to the updated guidelines, in men’s cricket, a batter who is not ready to face the ball within the allotted time will receive a warning on the first instance, a final warning on the second, and on the third and any subsequent occasions, the opposing team will be awarded a five-run penalty. Persistent time-wasting offenses may attract further disciplinary action as per the code of conduct.
Changes have also been made regarding the size and weight of the ball used in women’s cricket. There will now be distinct specifications for balls used in men’s, women’s, and junior cricket categories. Additionally, only throws directed at the stumps to prevent runs or effect run-outs will be classified as ‘overthrows.’ Misfields involving stopping the ball or passing it to another fielder will no longer be considered overthrows.
Furthermore, umpires have been granted enhanced authority concerning when the ball is considered “finally settled.” The ball will no longer have to be in the hand of the bowler or wicketkeeper to be deemed settled. During a run-out or stumping, the ball must be fully controlled by the fielder attempting the play to be considered as having been caught; merely touching the ball while breaking the stumps will not suffice.
Saurabh Ganguly, Chair of the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee, emphasized that these changes address the modern demands of the game while maintaining clarity and consistency in the laws. The new rules will be enforced in all international series commencing October 1 or later, while ongoing series will continue under the previous regulations.
