ICC introduces stop clock, rule changes

New Delhi

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved several significant updates to the playing conditions across formats, including the introduction of a stop clock in Tests, updated concussion protocols, a revised wide-ball rule, and changes to the Decision Review System (DRS). While some changes are already active in the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship, white-ball regulations will take effect from July 2.

The stop clock rule mandates that fielding teams start a new over within 60 seconds of the previous one ending. After two warnings, a third violation will incur a five-run penalty. This rule aims to address persistent issues with slow over-rates.

Under updated concussion rules, teams must nominate replacement players before each match, and any player diagnosed with concussion must observe a minimum seven-day stand-down period.

A six-month trial of a new wide-ball rule in limited-overs formats begins in October. Now, the batter’s position at the point of delivery, not after movement, determines a wide call. Deliveries narrowly missing the batter’s legs will not be automatically called wides.

Additionally, saliva use no longer triggers automatic ball replacement; umpires will judge based on ball condition. If deliberate, the batting side receives five penalty runs. The DRS system has also been updated to clarify review sequencing. Now, if a player is out in the first mode of dismissal (e.g., LBW), no further review (e.g., run out) will be assessed. In domestic cricket, full-time injury replacements for visible external injuries will be trialled, extending concussion substitution logic.