Ahmedabad: The usage of pink balls on trial basis during Test matches in case bad light affects play and allowing head coaches inside field of play during drinks break are some of major changes in playing conditions approved by ICC’s all-powerful board at its annual meeting here.
The two day meeting was held in Ahmedabad, where the board of directors also decided to suspend Cricket Canada on charges of corruption while delegating top ICC officials to oversee the Bangladesh Cricket Board elections.
“Trialling the use of a pink ball in Test Matches, with prior agreement from both teams, to maximise play in case of anticipated bad light,” an ICC statement read.
It is understood that the match will start with red ball but if there is bad light, then floodlights could be on and pink ball will be used to make up for the overs that could otherwise be lost.
How will the rule work? In a day, 90 overs are bowled and suppose after 75 overs of traditional red ball cricket, light fades with 15 overs still to bowl, that part can be covered by using pink ball under floodlights only if the two teams have agreement prior to the series.
Indian players have been known to resist playing pink ball Tests at home and whether they will agree to part usage of pink ball which can turn course of the match due to exaggerated seam movement is there to be seen.
In this regard, the ICC Board also approved “undertaking research on lighting technology for match officials and venues to reduce lost play due to poor light, with ICC co-funding R&D projects alongside Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).”
Coaches allowed in field of play during drinks intervals
Just like T20s have strategic time outs where coaches and support staff enter field of play to discuss tactics, the same would be applied in Test matches from now on.
“Updates to the Playing Conditions to allow head coaches or their designees to consult with teams during scheduled drinks intervals, mandate 15-minute intervals in T20I matches, and require batters to be ready at the resumption of play.”
Hawk Eye data to be accessed to curb chucking
To keep a check on illegal bowling action, on-field umpires will have an access to Hawk Eye Data.
“Enabling match officials to access Hawk-Eye data when considering reporting an illegal bowling action,” the rule states.
Other decisions on playing conditions
The ICC Board also approved “Permanent adoption of the leg-side wides trial.”
All ICC playing conditions will be implemented from October 1, 2026. (PTI)