The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made several big updates to the playing conditions across Test, ODI, and T20 formats. These changes aim to improve fairness, speed up the game, and ensure clarity in reviews and match situations.
1. Stop Clock Rule in Test Matches
The stop clock rule, already tested in white-ball games, is now part of Test cricket.
- The fielding team must begin a new over within 60 seconds of the previous one ending.
- They will get two warnings.
- On the third offence, the batting side will receive 5 penalty runs.
- These warnings reset every 80 overs in a Test match.
This rule is designed to stop time-wasting and make Test matches more time-efficient.
2. Saliva Ball Condition Rule
- The use of saliva remains banned for shining the ball.
- Umpires will no longer automatically replace the ball if saliva is used accidentally.
- If the ball behaves unusually after that, 5 penalty runs may be awarded to the batting team.
This decision brings more clarity and fairness to how ball condition is managed.
3. DRS Rule for Caught and LBW Reviews
In reviews for caught behind:
- If replays show the ball hit the pad and not the bat, umpires can now check for LBW.
- If the ball-tracking shows “umpire’s call”, the original on-field decision stands.
- This ensures proper use of the Decision Review System (DRS) and fair results.
4. Combined Review Sequence Change
If more than one event happens on the same ball (like LBW and run-out):
- The review will now follow the sequence of events.
- For example, if LBW happens first and results in an out, the run-out will not be reviewed.
- This change avoids confusion and helps teams understand review outcomes clearly.
5. Catch Review on No-Balls
Previously, catches off no-ball deliveries were not reviewed.
Now:
- Even if the delivery is a no-ball, umpires can review the catch.
- If the catch is clean, only the no-ball run is counted.
- If the catch is not clean, any completed runs will stand.
This ensures fairness in tight match situations.
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6. Penalty for Deliberate Short Runs
If a batter intentionally runs short to gain an advantage:
- The fielding captain can choose which batter stays on strike.
- The batting team can also be penalized 5 runs.
- If umpires think it was unintentional, no penalty will be applied.
7. Substitution Rule in First-Class Cricket
A new trial rule allows like-for-like player replacements for serious external injuries (like fractures) in First-Class matches.
- Substitutes must be approved by match officials.
- Soft-tissue injuries (like muscle pulls) will not be eligible.
Final Thoughts
These changes by the ICC are focused on making the game:
- Faster with rules like the stop clock
- Fairer through better use of reviews
- Smarter with updated catch and no-ball protocols
- Safer with options for injury replacements
Disclaimer: This article is based on official ICC updates as of June 26, 2025. These changes are now part of the global playing conditions and may differ slightly by tournament or board approval.
