Batters who delay the game might find themselves facing penalties as new International Cricket Council (ICC) playing conditions come into effect from 1 October 2026. Under these updated regulations, if a batter is deemed to be wasting time during an innings on three occasions, their team could be penalised by five runs. In women’s cricket, a separate, specifically sized ball will now be used, marking a notable shift in equipment and rules.
The ICC’s latest release outlined several changes, including already approved modifications. Notably, pink balls will be available for daytime Tests, and a wicket in the final over no longer means an automatic end to play in multi-day matches.
The crucial rule change focuses on time-wasting. Batters are now required to be ready to face the delivery once the bowler begins their approach. Typically, the batter expects to be prepared by the time the bowler reaches the top of their mark. Exceptions include a two-minute prep window for new batters following a dismissal, failing which they risk being timed out.
The revised Condition 41.10.3 indicates the sequence of penalties: a first-offence warning, a final reminder for the second, and five penalty runs awarded on the third and further delays. These warnings reset in multi-day matches after every 80-over block within the same innings.
In women’s cricket, a dedicated cricket ball sizing has been established, moving away from the shared use of a single ball size across women’s and junior cricket. This change introduces three distinct size and weight specifications for men’s, women’s, and junior cricket.
Other important updates include increasing umpire discretion over whether the ball is “finally settled”, a key factor in tight, game-deciding moments. Moreover, to execute a run-out or stump-out, fielders and wicketkeepers need full control of the ball; merely touching it while breaking the stumps isn’t sufficient.
These changes follow broader adjustments in the cricketing world, affecting a variety of teams from Afghanistan to England, altering gameplay and strategy significantly.
