The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rolled out sweeping changes to the regulations governing men’s international cricket across all formats. Effective from mid-June, the updates include modifications to ball usage in ODIs and stricter protocols for concussion substitutes. In ODIs, both balls will now be employed until the 34th over, after which teams must choose one to continue with, a shift from the current 25-over rule. The ICC stated this adjustment is designed to aid bowlers by facilitating reverse swing in the latter stages of an innings.
Concussion substitute rules have also been tightened, requiring teams to submit a pre-toss list of five designated replacements, including specific roles like a batter, all-rounder, wicketkeeper, fast bowler, and spinner. This replaces the previous system where substitutes could be named mid-match. The changes, set to take effect on June 17 for Tests, July 2 for ODIs, and July 10 for T20Is, aim to standardize player safety measures while maintaining competitive integrity.
In a separate move, the ICC and Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) have outlawed the contentious ‘bunny-hop’ boundary catch technique. Under the new rule, fielders must have initial contact with the ball while grounded inside the playing area. Catches where players jump from beyond the boundary to redirect the ball mid-air will no longer be valid. However, fielders who touch the ball inside the field but step out due to momentum can still complete the catch.
While the boundary catch rule will officially take effect in October 2026, it will be incorporated into ICC playing conditions starting next week. These updates reflect the ICC’s ongoing efforts to adapt the sport’s laws to modern demands, balancing innovation with tradition. As cricket continues to evolve, these changes are expected to spark discussions among players, coaches, and fans worldwide.