ICC Set To Introduce Major Cricket Rule Changes Across Test, ODI And T20 Formats
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- May 24, 2026
- 95
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is preparing to implement several major rule changes across all three formats of international cricket, including Test cricket, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. The proposed reforms include the use of the pink ball in daytime Test matches during poor light conditions, reduced innings breaks in T20Is, expanded coaching access in ODIs, and the use of HawkEye technology to detect illegal bowling actions.
According to reports published by Cricbuzz, these proposals were discussed during a virtual meeting of the ICC Chief Executives Committee (CEC) held on Thursday. ICC Cricket Committee Chairman Sourav Ganguly also attended the meeting.
The proposals are expected to be reviewed at the upcoming ICC Board meeting in Ahmedabad on May 30. If approved, the new ICC playing conditions could come into effect from October 1, 2026.
ICC May Allow Pink Ball In Daytime Test Matches During Poor Light
One of the most significant proposals under discussion is the introduction of the pink ball in regular daytime Test matches whenever visibility becomes poor under floodlights.
Currently, Test matches played during the day use the traditional red ball. However, the red ball often becomes difficult to see under artificial lighting, especially during bad weather or fading daylight. To address this issue, the ICC is considering allowing umpires to replace the red ball with a pink ball temporarily so that play can continue safely.
The proposed rule would apply only under the following conditions:
- Both captains must agree to the ball change
- The Test match must be a regular daytime match
- The venue must have functioning floodlights installed
At present, Day-Night Test matches are played entirely with the pink ball.
The proposed move is aimed at reducing interruptions caused by poor light and improving match continuity in Test cricket.
Read more about ICC playing conditions on the official ICC Website.
ICC Considering Coach Access During ODI Drinks Breaks
The ICC is also planning a major change in ODI cricket rules by allowing head coaches to enter the field during drinks breaks.
Currently, only substitute players carrying drinks are allowed onto the field, and they must wear cricket attire. Under the new proposal, team head coaches would also be permitted to interact directly with players during drinks intervals.
Currently, only substitute players carrying drinks are allowed onto the field, and they must wear cricket attire. Under the new proposal, team head coaches would also be permitted to interact directly with players during drinks intervals.
This rule is already applicable in T20 Internationals and could now be extended to the ODI format as part of ICC modernization efforts.
T20 International Innings Break May Be Reduced To 15 Minutes
In another important proposal, the ICC is considering reducing the innings break in T20 International matches from 20 minutes to 15 minutes.
The change is intended to shorten overall match duration, improve television broadcast scheduling, and enhance the viewing experience for global cricket audiences.
Cricket broadcasters and tournament organizers have reportedly supported shorter turnaround times to ensure matches conclude faster.
HawkEye Technology Could Help Detect Illegal Bowling Actions
The ICC is also exploring the use of HawkEye technology to assist umpires in identifying suspect or illegal bowling actions during live matches.
If implemented, HawkEye would provide technological support to on-field officials for monitoring bowling arm movements more accurately in real time.
The move is expected to strengthen fairness and transparency in international cricket while helping reduce controversies surrounding illegal bowling actions.
Learn more about cricket technology and match regulations at Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws Of Cricket.
Why These ICC Rule Changes Matter
The proposed ICC cricket rule changes could significantly impact the future of international cricket by:
- Improving visibility during Test matches
- Reducing unnecessary stoppages due to poor light
- Enhancing strategic communication in ODIs
- Shortening T20 match duration
- Increasing accuracy in detecting illegal bowling actions
The ICC’s latest proposals highlight the governing body’s focus on modernizing cricket while improving the overall experience for players, broadcasters, and fans worldwide.