In-game penalty for slow over rate
Of the two new rules, ICC announced on Friday, the first brings about an in-game penalty for slow over-rate. As per this rule, a bowling team must be in the condition to bowl the first ball of the final over of the innings by the scheduled or rescheduled time. If they fail to abide by this rule, then as a penalty, one fewer fielder will subsequently be allowed outside the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs in the innings. The in-match penalty will act as an additional sanction for slow over-rate.
Optional drinks break between each inning
The second rule change suggested by ICC on Friday, is the inclusion of optional drinks break in the mid-point of each inning. The break can be two minutes and thirty seconds long, however, both associations taking part in a bilateral series would have to agree to this rule prior to the start of the series. Such breaks are a common practice in T20 leagues around the globe such as in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well.
Bigger stumps for bowlers during DRS in LBW
As part of a significant rule change earlier in April 2021, the ICC ruled that heights of the bails would also be considered for an LBW/DRS review if 50 percent of the ball clips the bails. Under the old rule, deliveries clipping the bails stayed with the umpire’s call, however, now following the change, the on-field decision can be reversed if half of the ball makes contact with the bails. A little technical this change was, but it allowed the bowlers more room for LBW calls by bringing the bails into the equation.
Changes to the points format in WTC 2021-23
As part of the new cycle of the World Test Championship in 2021-23, the ICC announced that contrary to the previous edition, every match of the WTC will provide the participating teams points based on their result. Earlier, every series, be it of 3 matches or 5 matches, was worth 120 points. With this new rule, ICC tried to simply the points allocation process. Teams are now ranked on the percentage of points they win from the number of matches they’ve contested.
Continuation of interim COVID-19 regulations
The ICC had previously announced rules and regulations in order to keep in check with the COVID-19 protocols in 2020. Earlier this year, ICC allowed for these rules to be followed further, meaning only home umpires were allowed to officiate in games, where neutral umpires were previously required. Moreover, hygiene protocols such as the ban on saliva will continue to be followed.
