The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a sweeping set of rule changes across all formats of men’s international cricket, aimed at restoring balance between bat and ball while enhancing the quality and fairness of the game.
The new regulations will be implemented in phases: starting with Test matches from June 17, followed by ODIs from July 2, and T20Is from July 10. Though currently applicable only to men’s cricket, the rules could influence other formats in the future.
A standout change impacts the One Day International (ODI) format, with a revision to the Two-Ball Rule. Previously, each new ball was used from opposite ends for the first 25 overs of an innings.
Now, both balls will be used until the 34th over, after which the bowling side will choose one of the two balls to continue with until the end of the innings.
This change is expected to give bowlers—especially pacers and spinners—more control in the death overs by providing a more worn ball. In shortened matches of 25 overs or less, only a single ball will be used for the entire innings.
Another key modification is the introduction of pre-match substitute rules. Each team will now be required to name five substitutes before a game, covering all playing disciplines: a wicketkeeper, a batter, a seam bowler, a spin bowler, and an all-rounder. This measure aims to enhance strategic depth and allow teams better flexibility in unforeseen match situations.
One of the most debated changes comes in the form of new boundary fielding restrictions. The ICC has outlawed the controversial “bunny hop” catches—where fielders, while airborne outside the boundary, tap the ball back into play before completing a catch.
Now, any fielder making contact with the ball while outside the field of play will be allowed only one touch. For a catch to count, the player must regain ground inside the boundary before completing it.
With these sweeping reforms, the ICC reinforces its commitment to maintaining cricket’s integrity while adapting to the modern game. Fans and players alike can now anticipate a more balanced and thrilling on-field contest in the upcoming fixtures.