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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is planning some big changes in the game and these new ideas can completely change the picture in the future. The ICC is discussing several important rule changes across all formats – Test cricket, ODI and T20.
These new proposals were recently discussed during a virtual meeting of the ICC Chief Executive Committee, where former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly was also present as the head of the ICC Cricket Committee. Now the final decision is expected to be taken during the ICC Board meeting in Ahmedabad on May 30 and if approved, the new rules can be introduced from October 1.
ICC is considering changing from red ball to pink ball in Test cricket
According to a Cricbuzz report, one of the biggest changes under discussion is regarding the ball in Test cricket. The International Cricket Council is considering allowing teams to switch from the traditional red ball to the pink ball during a normal Test match if play is affected due to rain or inclement weather and the match has to continue under lights.
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At present, pink balls are used only in day-night test matches, but now there is an idea to introduce pink balls in regular test matches also. However, this will not happen automatically. If both teams are comfortable with this rule then they have to agree before the start of the series.
ICC plans to allow head coaches on the field during ODI matches
The second big proposal is for coaches who will help the teams extensively during international games. Currently, only substitute players are allowed to enter the field during drinks breaks in ODI cricket, and coaches usually remain outside the boundary line.
But the ICC now wants to allow head coaches to walk onto the field during drinks breaks and talk directly to players about tactics and plans. However, it has not been confirmed yet whether the head coach will also have to wear the team jersey or not.
As per current rules, anyone entering the ground with beverages must wear appropriate cricket uniform. However, this change is not proposed for Test cricket but for ODIs. This already happens in T20I cricket, where coaches can communicate with players during strategic breaks.
T20I innings break may be reduced
A major change is being planned for T20I as well. The government wants to reduce the innings break from 20 minutes to just 15 minutes. This means teams will get five less minutes to rest, discuss plans and prepare for the second innings.
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ICC aims to control illegal bowling action with Hawkeye rule
The ICC is also trying to be strict about illegal bowling actions. Under another proposed rule, on-field umpires may soon get direct access to HawkEye technology to instantly check bowlers with questionable actions during matches.
Currently, bowlers are usually reported after the match if their action appears questionable. But this new system can help the authorities to monitor such cases during live matches only. There is still no clarity on how this system will work, but the ICC is serious about controlling illegal bowling actions more strictly at the highest level.
All these proposed changes are now expected to get the green signal from the ICC Board during the meeting to be held in Ahmedabad on May 30.
