ICC new rules: Batters face five-run penalty for time-wasting, pink balls allowed in day Tests
As a trial, pink balls may be used in daytime Tests, subject to mutual agreement between the teams, to minimise the loss of play due to bad light. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
As a trial, pink balls may be used in daytime Tests, subject to mutual agreement between the teams, to minimise the loss of play due to bad light. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
The ICC has introduced a set of changes to its Playing Conditions across international cricket, with new rules aimed at curbing time-wasting, clarifying fielding laws and standardising equipment. The changes apply to series beginning on or after October 1, while ongoing series will continue under the previous regulations.
Q. What happens if a batter wastes time?
A. In men’s cricket, the first offence will result in a warning, followed by a final warning for a second offence. A third and every subsequent offence will result in five penalty runs for the fielding side. Repeated offences could also attract Code of Conduct action.
Q. Are there new specifications for cricket balls?
A. Yes. Women’s, men’s and junior cricket will now have three distinct size and weight specifications, tightening existing tolerances for women’s cricket balls.
Q. What is the new rule on overthrows?
A. An overthrow is specifically an attempt to direct the ball towards the stumps to prevent runs or effect a run-out. A simple misfield does not count as an overthrow.
Q. Can a ball be ‘finally settled’ without being held?
A. Yes. Umpires now have greater discretion to determine when a ball is finally settled. It does not necessarily have to be in the bowler’s or wicketkeeper’s hands.
Q. What constitutes a completed catch of the ball during a run-out or stumping?
A. The fielder must have complete control of the ball. Merely touching the ball with a hand as it breaks the stumps is not enough.
Q. Can pink balls now be used in Test cricket?
A. Yes, on a trial basis in daytime Tests, if both teams agree before the match. The decision must apply for the entire Test and cannot be changed once play begins.
Q. Does a wicket in the final over automatically end the day’s play?
A. No. If the final over has not been completed and conditions remain suitable, the remaining deliveries will be bowled on the same day.
Q. What has changed in ODIs and T20Is?
A. T20Is now have a fixed 15-minute interval, reducible to 10 minutes if time has been lost. The head coach or designate can enter the field during drinks, and the existing leg-side wide trial is now permanently part of the ODI and T20I Playing Conditions.
Published on Oct 01, 2026
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