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ICC introduces new playing conditions for international cricket matches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 5:27 PM

Last updated Oct 1, 2026

ICC introduces new playing conditions for international cricket matches

Summary

The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced changes to playing conditions effective from October 1, affecting both men’s and women’s cricket. Key changes include penalties for batters who waste time, new specifications for women's cricket balls, and the option to use pink balls in daytime Test matches. The revised rules aim to standardize regulations and prevent time-wasting during matches. For ongoing series, current regulations will still apply, allowing teams to adapt to these updates gradually.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Batters face penalties for wasting time, starting with warnings.
•New specifications established for women's cricket balls.
•Pink balls may be used in daytime Tests with mutual team agreement.
•Overthrows clarified to reflect changes in the game's interpretation.
•T20Is will have a fixed interval of 15 minutes.

Latest Updates

5:27 PMYahoo Sports — Pink ball in daytime Tests, penalties for time-wasting: ICC announces new playing conditions across men’s and women’s cricket

What they're saying

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The changes will apply to all international series beginning on October 1 or later, while series that are already underway will continue under the existing regulations.
— Yahoo Sports

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