In what has come as a groundbreaking development, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering to scrap the two new-ball rule in one day international cricket. This has come after the Board of Indian Council of Cricket (BCCI) made their own measures to promote the dying art of reverse swing bowling by bringing a unique rule in the IPL.
ICC meeting in Zimbabwe to revive ODIs?
We all know that all the ICC representatives are currently in Zimbabwe for a host of meetings. While the discussions could have also included the planning for LA Olympics 2028, we got the news for major other changes that could take place in cricket.
One of the most massive changes under discussion at the ongoing ICC meetings in Zimbabwe is the potential phasing out of the two-new-ball rule in One-Day Internationals (ODIs)—a move that could bring much-needed relief to bowlers and restore balance in the format.
Since the introduction of two new balls in ODIs over a decade ago, experts and former players have criticised the rule for diluting one of the most thrilling aspects of the game—reverse swing. With each ball used from one end for just 25 overs, there has been little opportunity for the ball to age and behave unpredictably in the death overs.
Cricket Committee headed by Sourav Ganguly
While not a full reversal of the two-ball system, the ICC’s Cricket Committee—chaired by Sourav Ganguly—has recommended a hybrid model. Teams would begin with two new balls but, from the 25th over, be required to continue with only one of them. This approach could allow the retained ball to age naturally, reintroducing reverse swing into the game. He replaced Anil Kumble in that role.
Other Key Proposals
Also under discussion is the idea of in-game clocks in Test matches to control over rates, limiting the time between overs to 60 seconds. Additionally, the ICC is exploring shifting the Men’s Under-19 World Cup to the T20 format, in line with the women’s version.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
India squad for England Tests: Shreyas Iyer, Sai Sudharsan & Rajat Patidar in contention
Top Stories
