In a significant move to restore balance between bat and ball in One Day Internationals, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed a major overhaul in playing conditions, set to take effect from next month. The most talked-about change is the return of the single-ball format in ODIs, replacing the dual new-ball system that has been in place since 2011.
Single Ball Format Returns
Currently, ODIs are played with two new balls—one from each end—which often results in the ball staying harder for longer, offering minimal reverse swing and aiding batting-friendly conditions throughout the 50 overs. Starting July 2025, this rule will be revised.
According to Cricbuzz, the new rule will work as follows:
- For the first 34 overs, two balls will still be used (one from each end).
- From the 35th over onwards, only one of those two balls—chosen by the fielding team—will be used for the remainder of the innings.
- If an ODI match is shortened to 25 overs or less before it begins, then only one new ball will be used for the entire innings.
This move is expected to bring back elements of reverse swing and traditional death-overs bowling craft, which have diminished under the twin-ball format.
Concussion Substitution Rule Tweaked
The ICC is also introducing a revised concussion substitution policy, aimed at streamlining replacements and ensuring fairness:
- Teams must pre-nominate 5 substitute players ahead of every match.
- These 5 must include:
- 1 wicketkeeper
- 1 specialist batter
- 1 fast bowler
- 1 spinner
- 1 all-rounder
- If a concussion replacement from the named five also sustains a head injury, the match referee will have discretion to approve a like-for-like replacement from outside the pre-named five, subject to medical assessment.
Other Rule Changes Coming
Though not fully detailed yet, the ICC also confirmed that amendments are being made to rules regarding:
- Boundary catches
- Decision Review System (DRS) procedures
Further specifics on these rule changes are expected to be announced soon.
Implementation Timeline
These new playing conditions will not be applied to the upcoming World Test Championship Final between Australia and South Africa, scheduled for June 11 at Lord’s.
However, they will come into effect as follows:
- Test matches: From June 17, beginning with Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh at Galle, kicking off the new WTC 2025–27 cycle.
- ODIs & T20Is: From July 2 (Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh ODI) and July 10 (T20I), the changes to the white-ball formats will be officially implemented.
These strategic adjustments by the ICC reflect a growing concern about maintaining competitiveness between bat and ball and ensuring a fairer playing environment across formats. The return of the single ball in ODIs, in particular, is expected to reignite interest among bowling purists and add a fresh layer of tactical depth to the 50-over format.
Stay tuned as more details on upcoming DRS and boundary catch rule changes are revealed!
