The ICC has introduced a new step to stop time wasting in cricket matches. An electronic watch will be incorporated in 59 matches for a trial period to penalize instances when the fielding side wastes time. The stop-clock trial will be held from December 2023 and April 2024 and will be featured in ODIs and T20Is.
The stop-watch is set to be introduced in the England vs West Indies 1st T20I set to be held on 13th December. The main agenda for the stop-clock will be to stop the wastage of time by the fielding side.
A 60-second gap will be given to the fielding side to start a new over once an over ends. After 2 warnings the batting side will be given a 5-run penalty.
When can the Stop Clock be Cancelled?
- A new batter comes to the wicket between overs
- An official drinks interval has been called
- The umpires have approved the onfield treatment of an injury to a batter or fielder
- The time lost is for any circumstances beyond the control of the fielding side.
“The stop clock trial in white ball international cricket follows the introduction of a successful new playing condition in 2022, which resulted in the fielding team only being allowed four fielders outside of the inner circle if they were not in a position to bowl the first ball of their final over in the stipulated time,” said Wasim Khan, the ICC General Manager.
“The outcomes of the stop clock trial will be assessed at the end of the trial period,” Khan concluded.