ICC Announces Major Rule Changes for Cricket: Stop Clocks, Boundary Catches, and More

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced significant changes to the playing conditions for international cricket, impacting Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is. Key changes include the introduction of a stop clock in Test cricket to speed up play, with penalties for teams exceeding the 60-second time limit between overs. ODI cricket sees a return to one ball per innings in the final overs. Boundary catch regulations have been updated to clarify fielder movements. Further alterations include modifications to concussion protocols, the DRS wicket zone, and deliberate short runs. Additionally, trials for replacement players in domestic first-class cricket and a new wide ball rule are set to begin. These changes aim to enhance the game’s pace, fairness, and player safety, and are already in effect for the World Test Championship and will be implemented in ODIs and T20Is starting in July.