Latest ICC Updates: Changes to Cricket Rules for Fairness and Safety
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made some significant changes to the Decision Review System (DRS) and concussion replacement rules, effective from December 12, 2023. These changes are aimed at making decisions clearer and fairer.
1. Stumping Reviews: A More Focused Approach
Previously, teams could use a single referral to check for both stumping and caught-behind scenarios. Now, umpires will only consider side-on replays for stumping during DRS referrals. If a team wants to review a caught-behind appeal after a stumping, they must use a separate DRS option. This prevents teams from exploiting the system by reviewing for multiple dismissals with one referral.
“The change limits a stumping review to only check for stumped, preventing the fielding team from getting a free review for other dismissals like caught behind without using a player review,” clarified the ICC in its recent amendment.
2. Concussion Replacement Rule: Bowling Restrictions
In the updated regulation, a substitute player will not be allowed to bowl if the replaced player was already suspended from bowling at the time of the concussion.
3. Streamlined Injury Assessment
On-field injury assessment and treatment time have been limited to four minutes, ensuring a more streamlined and time-bound process.
4. BCCI’s Stand: ‘Dead Ball’ and Two-Bouncer Rules
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to maintain the ‘Dead Ball’ and two-bouncer-per-over rules, introduced during last year’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, for the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches. These rules aim to maintain balance and excitement in the game while prioritizing player safety.
These updates bring more precision and fairness to the decision-making process in cricket, ensuring a dynamic yet safe environment for players on the field.