Ahmedabad: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved several significant changes to the playing conditions of international cricket, including a new provision allowing the use of the pink ball in Test matches when light conditions deteriorate. The decisions were taken during the ICC Annual Board Meeting held in Ahmedabad.
Under the new rule, Test matches will continue to start with the traditional red ball. However, if natural light becomes insufficient during play, officials may switch to a pink ball under floodlights to ensure the match continues without interruption. The move is aimed at preventing loss of playing time and ensuring the scheduled overs are completed. Both participating teams must agree to the provision before the start of a series.
For example, if poor light occurs after 75 overs in a scheduled 90-over day, the remaining overs may be played with a pink ball instead of stopping play.
The ICC also approved several other changes. Head coaches will now be allowed to enter the field during drinks breaks to communicate with players. Match officials will be permitted to use Hawk-Eye technology data to monitor bowlers with suspected illegal actions. In addition, the experimental leg-side wide rule has now been made permanent.
In T20 Internationals, a mandatory 15-minute innings break has been introduced. The ICC also clarified that batters must be ready to resume play immediately after the break.
Meanwhile, the ICC announced the immediate suspension of the membership of Cricket Canada for governance-related violations. However, Canadian national teams will remain eligible to participate in ICC events during the suspension period. The ICC stated that Cricket Canada must meet several conditions and implement governance reforms before its membership can be reinstated.
The board also approved important developments in women’s cricket. The ICC Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 will be held from February 14 to February 28, 2027.
Additionally, the ICC confirmed the launch of the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy in 2026. The tournament will feature 10 teams, including five Full Members and five Associate Members. Teams will qualify based on rankings and performances in previous T20 World Cup qualification events.
All the newly approved regulations are scheduled to come into effect from October 1, 2026.
