ICC trials pink ball to curb stoppages in Test cricket

AHMEDABAD: To curb the long-standing issue of bad light interrupting Tests, the ICC on Monday announced it will trial the use of a pink ball in such situations, subject to agreement from both teams, to maximise playing time under fading conditions. The decision, cleared at the ICC board meetings held on the sidelines of the IPL final, is among a series of wide-ranging reforms covering playing conditions, governance and global competition structures.

If implemented, the move could help preserve crucial playing time and enhance spectator experience. The pink ball’s higher visibility under artificial lighting makes it more suitable during twilight. The pink ball could be particularly useful in cities where weather conditions frequently disrupt play,” sources told TOI.

Technology and rule tweaks

Match officials will now have access to Hawk-Eye data when assessing suspected illegal bowling actions. The ICC will also collaborate with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to research improved lighting technologies for umpires and venues. The ICC board confirmed the permanent adoption of the leg-side wides trial, while other MCC law amendments will come into effect from Oct 1, 2026.

Changes were also approved for player-coach interactions in white-ball internationals. Head coaches will now be allowed to enter the field during official drinks breaks in ODIs, aligning with existing T20I regulations.

Franchise cricket under scrutiny

The ICC also expressed concern over the rapid expansion of franchise leagues across the globe. It has decided to form a dedicated committee to study how these competitions can be better aligned with the international calendar. “From women’s cricket to franchise leagues, these decisions aim to keep cricket fair, competitive and engaging,” ICC chairman Jay Shah said.

Focus on women’s cricket

The ICC Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 has been rescheduled from June-July to Feb 14-28. Additionally, a Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy will be piloted in 2026 as a 10-team tournament featuring five Full Members and five Associate Members. The qualification pathway for the 2028 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Pakistan was also ratified. The 12-team event will see 10 teams qualify automatically, including the top eight from the 2026 edition, the host nation (if not already qualified), and the next highest-ranked side. The remaining two spots will be decided through a global qualifier.

Meanwhile, Cricket Canada has been suspended from ICC membership with immediate effect due to serious breaches of its obligations, though its national teams will remain eligible for ICC events.