ICC mulls scrapping two-ball rule in ODIs to restore balance between bat and ball

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Poll Do you support the idea of scrapping the two new-ball rule in ODI cricket? No, the current format is just fine. Yes, it will bring balance back to the game.

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering a major change to ODI cricket that could bring balance back between bat and ball. The ICC Cricket Committee , led by former India captain Sourav Ganguly, has recommended scrapping the long-standing two new-ball rule in 50-over matches, a move that could significantly alter the dynamics of the format.The recommendation, which will be discussed by the ICC Board of Directors on Sunday in Harare, proposes the return to using a single white Kookaburra ball in ODIs. Introduced over a decade ago, the two-ball rule allows bowlers to use a separate new ball from each end, keeping the ball hard for longer and making batting easier — especially with only four fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle for most of the innings.The rule has been widely criticised for removing reverse swing from the game, as balls don’t wear enough to aid seamers. Spinners, too, have found it difficult to grip and turn a harder ball. Even batting legend Sachin Tendulkar has voiced concern about the imbalance it creates.Sources suggest a hybrid option is also under review — where two balls are used for the first 25 overs, with teams retaining one for the remaining overs.Additionally, the ICC may introduce a timer clock in Test matches, allowing only 60 seconds between overs and aiming to ensure 90 overs are completed in a day — similar to the T20 over-rate penalty rule.A format shift for the U19 Men’s World Cup from 50 overs to T20s is also on the table, aiming to align the age-group tournament with the growing prominence of franchise T20 leagues and prepare young players for the faster-paced format.All proposed changes will need ratification by the ICC Board before they are implemented.

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