ICC Approves Pink Ball Trial in Test Cricket to Combat Poor Light Interruptions
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Mumbai
- Jun 02, 2026
- 41
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a groundbreaking trial aimed at reducing play interruptions caused by poor light in Test cricket. The decision was finalized during the ICC Annual Conference in Ahmedabad, where members endorsed the experimental use of pink balls in daytime Test matches whenever visibility becomes inadequate for the traditional red ball.
Under the proposed system, match officials may authorize a switch from the red ball to a pink ball if fading light threatens play. However, the change can only take place with the consent of both team captains. The pink ball's enhanced visibility under floodlights is expected to help preserve valuable playing time and minimize weather-related disruptions.
The ICC will initially conduct the trial in selected Test matches before considering a wider implementation across international cricket.
In another major development, the ICC has partnered with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to explore innovative lighting technologies that could significantly reduce the number of stoppages caused by poor visibility.
The governing body believes advancements in stadium illumination may help improve playing conditions while ensuring that matches continue safely even under challenging light conditions.
Head Coaches Allowed On-Field Access During ODI Drinks Breaks
The ICC has also approved a change in coaching regulations for One-Day International cricket. Head coaches will now be permitted to enter the field during official drinks breaks and communicate directly with players.
Until now, this privilege was restricted to T20 Internationals. The move is expected to enhance tactical planning and improve real-time communication between coaching staff and players during matches.
Hawk-Eye Technology to Assist Umpires in Monitoring Bowling Actions
A further amendment allows umpires to access Hawk-Eye tracking data when evaluating suspected illegal bowling actions.
Hawk-Eye technology uses multiple high-speed cameras to generate a detailed three-dimensional projection of a ball's trajectory. Widely recognized for its role in Decision Review System (DRS) reviews, the technology will now assist officials in making more informed assessments regarding bowling legality.
Women's Champions Trophy 2027 Rescheduled
The ICC has revised the scheduling window for the Women's Champions Trophy 2027. The tournament will now be staged from February 14 to February 28, 2027, moving away from its traditional June-July timeframe.
The scheduling adjustment is expected to improve tournament planning and align the event more effectively with the global cricket calendar.
ICC Launches Women's Emerging Nations Trophy
To accelerate the growth of women's cricket, the ICC has approved the launch of the Women's Emerging Nations Trophy in 2026.
The competition will feature ten teams, comprising five Full Member nations and five Associate Member countries. Qualification will be based on international rankings and performances in Women's T20 World Cup qualifying tournaments.
Qualification Pathway Confirmed for Women's T20 World Cup 2028
The ICC has also finalized the qualification structure for the Women's T20 World Cup 2028.
The tournament will be hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), although matches involving India will be played at neutral venues.
Ten teams will qualify automatically, including the top performers from the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup, the host nation, and additional teams determined by ICC rankings as of July 6, 2026. The final two places will be awarded through a global qualifying competition featuring ten teams.
ICC Delegation to Review Bangladesh Cricket Governance
Officials from Cricket South Africa and Zimbabwe Cricket will travel to Bangladesh to engage with stakeholders regarding ongoing administrative and governance issues within the country's cricket structure.
The discussions are expected to include matters related to the Bangladesh Cricket Board's election procedures and broader governance concerns affecting the sport.
Franchise Cricket Expansion Raises Scheduling Concerns
The rapid rise of franchise-based cricket leagues across the globe has prompted fresh discussions within the ICC.
To address growing concerns over scheduling conflicts between international cricket and domestic franchise tournaments, the governing body has approved the formation of a special committee tasked with examining future calendar management.
The committee will explore ways to create a sustainable balance between international commitments and the expanding franchise cricket ecosystem.
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