Rules for wearing socks in test cricket. (Photo- Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
ICC Clothing and Equipment Rules: Cricket is called a gentleman’s game, this title is especially associated with the spirit of cricket and dress code. The special thing is that the rules for wearing socks in Test cricket are also very strict, and they come under the Clothing and Equipment Rules of ICC. Very few fans know about the rules related to socks in Test cricket, although players may have to face punishment for breaking this rule.
Rules for wearing socks in test cricket
According to Clause 19.45 of ICC’s Clothing and Equipment Rules, players have to wear white, cream or light gray socks in Test cricket. Wearing socks of other colors (like black, blue, red) is completely banned, as it does not match the traditional white dress of Test cricket. Additionally, there are rules for logos on socks, which can be a maximum of 2 square inches (12.9 cm²) on socks. Apart from this, socks should be absolutely plain.
What is the punishment for breaking the rules of nudes?
This rule applies to all players, irrespective of the team. If a player wears the wrong colored socks, the match referee or umpire can remove him from the field or impose a penalty for breaking the rules. Let us tell you, this is considered a level-1 crime. For ICC Level-1 offences, players can be fined 0 to 50 per cent of their match fees and receive demerits points. However, if a mistake is made for the first time, the umpire can also leave after giving a warning. But match fees can be deducted for deliberate or repetitive behavior.
Shubman Gill has made this mistake
Due to this rule, during the England tour last year, Indian captain Shubman Gill was embroiled in controversies. In fact, on the second day of the Leeds Test, Shubman came out to bat wearing black socks, which quickly became a big issue on social media. However, no action was taken against Shubhman Gill. He played wearing white running socks for the remaining days of the match.