ICC Approves Key Changes: New Ball Rule in ODIs and Uniform Concussion Substitute Policy

In a major move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved important changes to ODI playing conditions and concussion substitute rules across all formats of men’s international cricket, as reported by ESPN Cricinfo. These changes, recommended by the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee and later cleared by the Chief Executives Committee, aim to bring more clarity and fairness to the game.

When Do the New Rules Start?

1. Test Matches – From June 17

      2. ODIs – From July 2

       3.T20Is – From July 10

What’s New in ODIs? – Updated Two-Ball Rule

Until now, two separate new balls were used from either end throughout the entire 50-over innings. Under the new rule:

• Two new balls will still be used, but only until the 34th over.

• From over 35 to 50, the bowling side must choose one of the two balls to continue with for both ends.

If a match is shortened to 25 overs or less per side before the first innings starts, only one new ball will be used throughout that innings.

ALSO READ: What are the new rules introduced by BCCI for the 2025–26 domestic season?

Concussion Substitution – Clearer Guidelines for All Formats

The ICC has introduced a uniform concussion substitute policy for all formats. Teams will now have to:

• Submit a list of 5 substitute players before the match starts.

• The list must include:

  • 1 Batter

  • 1 Fast Bowler

  • 1 Spinner

  • 1 All-Rounder

  • 1 Wicketkeeper

This change is aimed at avoiding confusion, especially after a controversial moment earlier this year when India substituted batting all-rounder Shivam Dube with bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana in a T20I vs England. Rana’s impactful spell sparked debate over fairness, prompting the ICC to act.

Also, if a concussion substitute gets concussed too, the match referee can approve a replacement from outside the original five, following the same 'like-for-like' criteria.

Changes to Catching Rules

The MCC has also adjusted the law around boundary catches. Fielders are no longer allowed to jump outside the boundary, toss the ball in the air, and then return to the field to complete a catch. This move ends the practice commonly known as the "bunny hop" catch.

Key Changes

Change No.	Area	New Rule
1	ODI Ball Usage	Two new balls used until 34th over; one chosen ball to be used from overs 35–50.
2	Concussion Substitution	Teams must list 5 pre-approved substitutes covering key roles (batter, bowler, spinner, keeper, all-rounder).