Credit: ICC
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a notable reform to the powerplay rules in T20 Internationals (T20I) in men's cricket. Currently, the powerplay spanned six overs, however, in games where overs are reduced due to rain and interruptions, the powerplay period will be adjusted proportionally. Typically, powerplay covers about 30% of a T20 game’s total overs. In the new rule, if a match is curtailed by 19 overs, the powerplay will be of 5.4 overs. Similarly, for a 15-over game, it will be active for 27 balls. In case of eight overs, it will be the first two overs. The new rule will come into effect from July.
Besides this, ICC has come up with key updates to maintain swiftness and neutrality of the sport. Another major change ICC has introduced is the utilisation of stop-clock in Tests to observe over rates. Grabs sealed on no-ball deliveries will now be subject to review for fairness, ensuring precision in decision-making. Another notable update includes the permission of full-time player replacements in domestic first-class games in grievous injuries. Red-ball cricket has already adapted these changes while these changes will take place in One-Day Internationals (ODI) and T20 Internationals (T20I) from July 2.
Details of international cricket calendar in July
In the month of July, Sri Lanka will be clashing with Bangladesh in a six-match white-ball series (three One-Day Internationals and three T20 Internationals). Following a tri-series will be played among South Africa, New Zealand and Zimbabwe. Australia, after the ongoing three-match Test series, will also square off against the West Indies in a five-match T20I series in the latter’s backyard.
India will also take on England in their three off five Tests in the month. In the opening game played in Headingley, Ben Stokes’ England crushed India by five wickets and took a 1-0 lead. Shubman Gill’s India will look to make a comeback in the second game to be played at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground from July 2 to 6.
