ICC introduces new rule changes [Source: AFP]The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced massive new rule changes to the game on the day of the World Cup 2027 schedule announcement. A number of new rules will be implemented going forward, including measures to address time-wasting, wickets in the last over of the day, and standardise ball specifications.The new changes will come into effect for all series, starting from October 1 or later. The ongoing series will be played as per the old ICC guidelines.ICC to penalise batters wasting timeUnder the new ICC guidelines, if a batter is not ready to face a ball within a set time, a warning will be issued to the batter for the first offence. A final warning will be issued for the second offence, and if the mistake takes place again, five penalty runs will be given to the fielding team.Other major changes introduced by the ICCSeveral other changes will come into effect from October 1, 2026, as a number of other key decisions were taken to improve the quality of the game going forward.Cricket balls to have three distinctive weights for men’s, women’s and junior cricketUp until now, the manufacturer has often produced a single ball (same weight and size) for both Women’s and Junior Cricket. However, that law will now change as new limits have been introduced, allowing for three different sizes and specifications for three different levels of cricket (Men’s, Women’s and Junior Cricket).Also Read: ICC Plan Stricter Regulations Against Franchise CricketDebate settled around overthrowsThe ICC has also settled the debate around what constitutes an overthrow in cricket.An overthrow is an attempt to direct the ball towards the stumps to prevent runs or effect a run-out. A misfield, whether an attempt to stop the ball or pass it to another fielder, does not constitute an overthrow," the ICC statement read.Final wicket of the day, doesn't necessarily determine the end of playAccording to the new ICC rules, play will no longer automatically come to an end if a wicket falls in the final over of the day. If the over is incomplete and conditions are fit, the remaining balls are bowled. No longer will those remaining deliveries take place on the next morning. Usage of Pink-Balls in TestsAs a trial, the Pink-Ball could be used in a Test match with mutual agreement between the two teams. This has been implemented to reduce loss of play due to bad light.The decision to use the Pink-Ball has to be taken before the start of the Test match, and the decision taken cannot be overturned.Also Read: Irani Cup Winners List From 1959-2026
