ICC set to enforce new playing conditions from next month

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to implement significant changes to its playing conditions starting June 2025 for Test matches and July 2025 for international white-ball games. These updates aim to enhance the balance between bat and ball and address player safety concerns. Key Changes in Playing Conditions - 1. Return to Single Ball in ODIs Current Rule: Two new balls are used simultaneously from each end throughout the 50-over innings. New Rule: Two new balls will be used for the first 34 overs. After the 34th over, the fielding team will select one of the two balls to use from both ends for the remaining 16 overs. Objective: This change aims to reintroduce reverse swing in the latter stages of the innings, providing bowlers with more opportunities and restoring balance between bat and ball. In Reduced Overs Matches: If a match is reduced to 25 overs or fewer per side before the first innings commences, only one new ball will be used per innings. 2. Revised Concussion Substitute Protocol New Requirement: Teams must submit a list of five designated concussion substitutes to the match referee before each match. These should include: One wicketkeeper One batter One seam bowler One spinner One all-rounder Exceptional Circumstances: If a concussion substitute also sustains a concussion, the match referee has the discretion to approve a replacement outside the nominated list, adhering to existing like-for-like protocols. 3. Upcoming Adjustments to Boundary Catches and DRS The ICC has indicated that there will be minor adjustments to the rules concerning boundary line catches and the Decision Review System (DRS). Specific details on these changes are expected to be announced in due course. Implementation Timeline Test Matches: The new playing conditions will come into effect from June 2025. However, the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa, starting on June 11 at Lord's, will be played under the existing rules. The revised conditions will be applied from the first Test of the new WTC cycle, beginning with the Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh match in Galle on June 17. White-Ball Matches (ODIs and T20Is): The updated rules will be implemented from July 2025, starting with the Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh ODI series commencing on July 2 in Colombo. These changes reflect the ICC's ongoing efforts to evolve the game, ensuring competitiveness and player safety across all formats.