ICC Unveils Major Cricket Rule Changes, Adjusts Powerplay Rules

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has made several changes to playing conditions in men’s cricket. One of the biggest changes is in the T20 powerplay rules for men’s T20 Internationals (T20Is). These new T20 powerplay rules will come into effect from July 2, 2025.

Notably, in a regular 20-over innings, the powerplay rule in T20 is applied to the first six overs of an innings. During the powerplay, only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. However, in the rain-marred matches, this was previously rounded off to the nearest full over. This rule is now being amended by the apex council.

What are the New T20 Powerplay Rules?

From now onwards, the powerplay overs will be rounded off to the nearest ball, not over. This means the power play will reflect about 30% of the total innings more accurately. The idea is to make the game fairer for both teams. The ICC says this new method has already been tested successfully in the T20 Blast in England. It has worked well, even if the power play ends in the middle of an over.

This change helps keep the powerplay duration in line with the overall innings length. For example, in an 8-over innings, 30% of 8 overs is about 2.4 overs. So, a 2.2-over powerplay keeps it close. During matches, umpires will now signal the end of the powerplay at the right ball. For instance, in an 8-over game, the signal will come after two balls in the third over. Here’s how the new powerplay rule in T20 cricket will work:

When Will New T20 Powerplay Rules Be Implemented?

The new ICC T20 powerplay rules will come into effect from July 2, 2025. The new rules in red-ball cricket have already been implemented from the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. The ICC Cricket Committee believes these changes will help make the game fairer, faster, and more exciting.

While the powerplay rule in T20 cricket has been tweaked, it is likely to see a similar effect in the Indian Premier League as well. In the upcoming days, IPL T20 powerplay rules will also be tweaked according to the recent rule changes by the ICC. Although nothing has been announced yet, it is likely to happen in the future.

Other Changes By ICC

While the ICC T20 powerplay rules are set to change the way T20 cricket is played, the world governing body has also approved some other important changes. These are as follows:

1. Stop Clock in Test Cricket - A stop clock will now be used in Test cricket. It will help control the time taken between overs. This aims to reduce delays and keep the over-rate in check.
2. Fairness in Catches and No-Balls - The third umpire can now check if a bowler overstepped the line while taking a catch. This ensures catches are fair and legal.
3. Full-Time Replacements in First-Class Cricket - In domestic first-class matches, full-time player replacements will be allowed. This is useful if a player gets injured or falls sick during the match.