From Stop Clock to Short Runs: All You Need to Know About the ICC's Multiple Rule Changes

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has brought in several rule changes in the game. These new rules shall surely impact the way the game is played. No doubt it will have an effect and things are not going to be the same again.

Cricket has evolved a lot since it became an international sport 148 years ago. Test cricket began in 1877 and in 1971 we saw the birth of ODIs. T20Is came into the mix from 2005 and now all three formats are given equal importance.

X/BCCI

The ICC made the decision for these rules to come into effect right away and now the fresh set of games shall see these being implemented. It will be interesting to see how the players adjust. After all, they are the ones playing the game out in the middle.

So are these rules helpful or do they make things even more difficult? The best thing to do before passing judgement is to see what they are and then decide for yourself. Here we go:

1. Stop Clock

X/ICC

Time-wasting goes out of the window for teams with the introduction of this new rule. The bowling side has exactly 60 seconds to start the next over. If the clock ticks over 60 seconds then five penalty runs are awarded to the batting side if they take too long and there are no factors which make a case in their favour. This was implemented in the T20 World Cup last year but is now going to be there for all games across formats.

2. No Ball Change If Saliva Used

X/ICC

Earlier, there was a rule that if a player accidentally used saliva to keep the shine on the ball, then it would be replaced. This was due to the COVID protocols that were in place. Now the ball will not be changed. So players can be a little free and not worry if they accidentally use the saliva.

3. No More Smart Runs

X/ICC

If either of the batters cheats while taking a run or pretends to take a run then the fielding side can determine which batter shall take strike for the next ball. Once they decide, the captain shall communicate the decision to the umpire.

4. One Ball Choice in ODIs

iStock

In ODIs, where two balls are used in the same innings, now one can be used after a certain time. After 34 overs, the teams can pick one ball out of the two they were using to continue the game.

5. Concussion Subs

X/ICC

Now each team must keep five concussion subs ready in advance. So during the game if more than one sub is needed there is no need to scramble. Also, having five in the bank means they can choose accordingly. So teams have that flexibility. This allows them to experiment more.