New Delhi. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has implemented many new playing conditions in international cricket from October 1 (Thursday), 2026. However, in the series which are already running, the old rules will remain applicable.

1. Penalty of 5 runs if the batsman wastes time.

If the batsman is not ready to play the next ball within the stipulated time, then

– warning on first mistake

– Final warning on second mistake

– 5 penalty runs to the bowling team for every mistake in the third and subsequent

2. Pink ball trial in day test

Now with mutual consent, pink ball can be used as a trial in test matches played during the day. Its purpose is to reduce the possibility of play stopping due to bad light.

However, the decision to use the pink ball will have to be taken before the start of the Test. After the start of the match, no change can be made from red ball to pink ball or from pink ball to red ball.

3. Strict rules regarding size and weight of women's cricket ball

New rules have been made regarding the size and weight of the ball in women's and junior cricket. Now three different sizes and weights have been prescribed for men's, women's and junior cricket.

4. Clear definition of overthrow

Now it has been made clear when overthrow will be considered. If a fielder throws the ball in the direction of the stumps in order to stop a run or to run him out, it will be considered an overthrow. But a misfield that occurs merely in an attempt to stop the ball or pass it to another fielder will not be considered an overthrow.

5. When will the ball be considered stationary?

Now the umpire will have more authority in deciding whether the ball has finally become stable or not. It will not be necessary for the ball to be in the hands of the bowler or the wicketkeeper. This rule can be especially important in close matches, such as on the last ball of the match.

6. Complete control of the fielder is necessary in run out and stumping.

If the fielder catches the ball and knocks down the stump, he must have complete control over the ball. Just touching the ball with your hand and the stump falling at the same time will not be considered sufficient.

When will the new rules come into effect?

These changes will be applicable to international series starting on or after October 1, 2026. The series which have started before October 1, will continue under the old playing conditions. The focus of the new rules is specifically on increasing the pace of the game, preventing time wasting, clarifying the size and weight of the ball and removing confusion in the rules to fielding.