New ICC cricket rules penalize time-wasting and change ball standards

The International Cricket Council introduced new playing conditions on Thursday that target time-wasting, fielding rules, and cricket ball specifications. These regulations apply to series starting after Thursday, while ongoing series continue under older rules. Batters who waste time receive warnings on the first and second offenses. If the offense happens a third time, the fielding side receives a five-run penalty.

Ball Standards

The ICC also set new size and weight limits for cricket balls. Men's, women's, and junior cricket now have three distinct size and weight specifications instead of using overlapping designs. New balls must weigh between 5 and 5.25 ounces, and measure between 8.46 and 8.66 inches in circumference. Teams must now mutually agree before a Test match if they want to use pink balls. This decision remains binding for the entire match and cannot be changed once play begins.

Match Rules

Play will no longer automatically end when a wicket falls in the final over of the day, provided the weather and conditions allow play to continue. The ICC noted that the old rule did not save time because bowlers still had to deliver the remaining balls the next day. Sourav Ganguly, former Indian captain and ICC Men's Cricket Committee Chair, stated that these steps help the sport keep pace with modern times. He added that the changes reflect the needs of the modern game while protecting its integrity.

Context

Sports governing bodies regularly update playing conditions to address speed of play, equipment standards, and fairness. These adjustments help modernize the sport as styles of play and manufacturing standards change over time.