ICC Proposes Key Rule Change for ODIs: Two Balls May Be Replaced After 35 Overs
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is evaluating a significant change to the two-ball rule in One Day Internationals (ODIs), aiming to restore balance between bat and ball. The proposed modification emerged during ICC meetings in Harare, led by former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, head of the Men’s Cricket Committee.
Under current rules, two new balls are used simultaneously, one from each end, throughout the 50-over innings. However, the new proposal recommends switching to one ball after the 35th over. Both balls would be used for 17 overs each (up to the 34th over), after which the fielding side would choose which of the two balls to continue with. The other would be kept as a spare.
This shift aims to counter the excessive dominance of batters in the death overs, a frequent criticism since the two-ball rule was introduced in October 2011. The idea of switching after 25 overs was also considered but deemed too limiting.
Member boards have until the end of April to submit feedback. If consensus is reached, the rule could be implemented as early as the ICC’s Annual General Meeting in July.
Other ICC Discussions:
✅ 60-Second Stop Clock in Test Cricket
To address slow over-rates, the ICC is also exploring a 60-second timer between overs in Test matches, similar to what is already in place in ODIs and T20Is. The goal is to speed up play and avoid time-wasting.
❌ Under-19 World Cup Format Change Rejected
There was little support for a proposal to convert the Under-19 Men’s World Cup from a 50-over format to T20s. The idea has been shelved unless broader backing emerges.
🔄 Bonus Points in WTC: Early Stages
Bonus points for exceptional performances in the World Test Championship (WTC) were also discussed. However, the concept was deemed too complex for immediate adoption.
Shreyas Iyer Named ICC Men’s Player of the Month – March 2025
India’s middle-order maestro Shreyas Iyer has been awarded the ICC Men’s Player of the Month for March 2025, following his standout performances during India’s ICC Champions Trophy win.
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🏏 Runs Scored: 243
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📊 Average: 57.33
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⚡ Strike Rate: 77.47
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🔥 Best Month Performance: 172 runs in 3 matches
Iyer edged out New Zealand duo Jacob Duffy and Rachin Ravindra to claim the honor. This marks India’s second straight monthly win, following Shubman Gill’s February success.
In his acceptance speech, Iyer said:
“Being able to contribute to India’s success on such a big stage is something every cricketer dreams of. I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, and the fans for their unwavering support.”
Conclusion
From rule reforms in ODIs and Tests to celebrating top individual performers, the ICC is actively shaping the future of international cricket. The potential revision of the two-ball rule could mark a turning point in how ODIs are played, promising a more level playing field in the crucial final overs.
Stay tuned for more updates as member boards respond to these proposed changes.
