The International Cricket Council(ICC) announces new playing conditions for T20Is. The playing conditions in T20I cricket will be changed after this announcement by the ICC. While the first rule is associated with an in-match penalty for slow over rate, the second rule is about the optional drinks break in between the innings. ICC keeps on introducing various new rules to the game to improve the pace of the game. On a relatable note, here are the new Playing conditions by ICC for T20Is.
In-game penalty for Slow over rate
Of the two new rules, ICC announced today, the first one is for slow over rate. This rule brings an in-game penalty for slow over rate. As per this rule, a bowling team must be in the condition to bowl the first ball of the final over of the innings by the scheduled time. If they fail to abide by this rule, then an one fewer fielder will be allowed outside the 30 yard circle for the remaining overs of the innings. The in-match penalties are in addition to the sanctions for the slow over rate.
“The over rate regulations are captured in clause 13.8 of the playing conditions, which stipulate that a fielding side must be in a position to bowl the first ball of the final over of the innings by the scheduled or rescheduled time for the end of the innings. If they are not in such a position, one fewer fielder will be permitted outside of the 30-yard circle for the remaining overs of the innings.”
ICC stated
Optional Drink break between each inning
The second rule change suggested by ICC today is the optional drinks break in the mid point of each innings. Both associations taking part in a billateral series would have to agree on this rule prior to the start of the series. The breaks can be two minutes and thirty seconds long. These drinks break are the common practice in the T20 Leagues across the world such as IPL.
“In another change, an optional drinks break of two minutes and thirty seconds may be taken at the mid-point of each innings subject to agreement between Members at the start of each series.”
ICC in an official statement
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In the official statement released by ICC, it was revealed that these changes were recommended by the ICC Cricket Committee. These changes will definitely improve the standard of the game of cricket. Meanwhile, the first T20I game to be played after the introduction of the new rules will be between West Indies and Ireland. The match will be played at Sabina Park, Jamaica on 16 January 2022. Also, the first women’s game after the new playing conditions will be between South Africa and West Indies. This match will be played at SuperSport Park, Centurion on January 18.
