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ICC introduces major changes to cricket rules
Published : Thursday, 1 October, 2026 at 6:46 PM
Observer Online Report
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced several changes to playing conditions across Test, ODI and T20 cricket, with the new rules coming into effect for international series starting on or after October 1.
The changes include stricter penalties for batters wasting time, revised ball specifications for women’s international cricket and a trial allowing pink balls in daytime Test matches.
The key changes:
Time-wasting by batters
Batters must be ready to face the next delivery within the stipulated time. The first offence will draw a warning, the second a final warning, while a five-run penalty will be imposed for the third and subsequent offences.
Pink ball in daytime Tests
Teams may agree to use a pink ball in a daytime Test when poor light is expected. The trial is aimed at reducing interruptions and maximising playing time.
Women's cricket balls
The ICC has revised the specifications for balls used in women's international cricket, including their size and weight.
Overthrow clarification
The playing conditions have been clarified regarding overthrows, particularly how runs are determined when the ball deflects off a fielder and continues towards the boundary.
When a ball is considered settled
The revised rules provide clearer guidance on when a ball is considered dead or settled, including situations involving fielders and wicketkeepers.
Final over of the day
If a wicket falls during the final scheduled over of a day's play and deliveries remain, the over can be completed instead of ending immediately with the scheduled close of play.
The changes are part of the ICC's updated playing conditions and the 2026 edition of the MCC Laws of Cricket adopted for international cricket.
-AH
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
