The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly considering major changes to ODI playing conditions, including a modification to the controversial two-new-ball rule. The aim? To restore the balance between bat and ball and bring back the art of reverse swing in One Day Internationals.
ICC Eyes ODI Rule Change to Aid Bowlers
According to a report by Cricbuzz, the ICC may soon revise the current ODI format by tweaking the two-ball rule introduced in 2011. Under the new proposal, each team would still start with two new balls, but from the 25th over, they would be required to continue with only one ball for the remainder of the innings. This approach could reintroduce natural wear and tear, allowing bowlers to generate reverse swing in the latter stages.
The recommendation, reportedly put forward by the ICC Cricket Committee chaired by Sourav Ganguly, is being reviewed at the ongoing ICC meetings in Zimbabwe.
Criticism of Two-New-Ball Rule from Cricket Legends
The current two-ball rule has faced consistent criticism from cricketing legends. Iconic batter Sachin Tendulkar famously called it “a perfect recipe for disaster,” pointing out that the use of two fresh balls prevents either from aging enough to allow reverse swing, a vital skill during death overs.
“We haven’t seen reverse swing, an integral part of the death overs, for a long time,” Tendulkar said on social media, echoing the sentiments of fans and bowlers alike.
Former Australian pacer Brett Lee has also voiced support for Tendulkar’s views, advocating for changes that favor a more balanced contest between bat and ball.
Reverse Swing and White Ball Longevity at the Core
Historically, reverse swing played a crucial role in ODIs. But since each ball is currently used for only 25 overs, they retain their shine, eliminating any significant degradation. Under the proposed format, a single ball could now be used for up to 37–38 overs, allowing natural deterioration — similar to the pre-2011 ODI era when umpires replaced worn-out balls by the 35th over.
Countdown Clocks May Be Introduced in Test Cricket
In addition to ODI changes, the ICC is also evaluating ways to improve over rates in Test matches. One such proposal involves the use of in-game countdown clocks — similar to those already in use in T20 and ODI formats — with a 60-second limit between overs.
This move is intended to help teams maintain the required 90 overs per day, ensuring a better viewer experience and timely match finishes.
Under-19 Men’s World Cup May Shift to T20 Format
Another topic up for discussion is a format change for the Men’s Under-19 World Cup. While the tournament is traditionally played in a 50-over format, there is growing support for converting it into a T20 event, especially after the success of the Women’s U19 T20 World Cup.
The ICC Women’s Under-19 World Cup — held in 2023 (South Africa) and 2025 (Malaysia) — has used the shorter format successfully. If approved, the change to a T20 format for the men’s edition would take effect starting from the 2028 broadcast cycle.
Key Takeaways: What Could Change in International Cricket?
- ✅ ICC may revise the two-new-ball rule in ODIs to reintroduce reverse swing
- ✅ Teams could be limited to one ball after 25 overs
- ✅ Countdown clocks might be introduced in Test cricket to regulate over rates
- ✅ Men’s U19 World Cup could switch from 50-over to T20 format from 2028