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International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a series of significant regulatory changes following its Board meetings in Ahmedabad, India, with several updates set to impact the way international cricket is played and officiated from October 2026 onwards.
The governing body approved multiple recommendations from the Chief Executives Committee (CEC), introducing new playing conditions, officiating measures, and technological initiatives aimed at improving the game across formats.
Among the headline changes are the permanent adoption of the leg-side wides trial and the introduction of pink-ball usage in select Test matches under specific conditions.
ICC approves key playing condition and officiating updates
One of the most notable decisions taken by the ICC Board is the permanent adoption of the leg-side wides trial, which had previously been implemented on an experimental basis.
The governing body also approved a trial allowing the use of a pink ball in Test matches, provided both participating teams agree beforehand. The move is designed to maximise playing time in matches where poor light is anticipated.
To further address disruptions caused by bad light, the ICC will jointly fund research and development projects with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to explore new lighting technologies for venues and match officials.
In another important change, match officials will now be permitted to access Hawk-Eye data while considering whether to report a bowler for a suspected illegal bowling action.
Coaching, intervals, and classification rules also updated
The ICC has also approved several modifications to playing conditions across formats.
Head coaches, or their designated representatives, will now be allowed to communicate with players during scheduled drinks intervals. Additionally, all T20 Internationals will feature mandatory 15-minute innings breaks, while batters will be required to be ready immediately when play resumes.
The Board further confirmed that all remaining MCC Laws of Cricket amendments will be formally adopted from October 1, 2026.
Beyond playing regulations, the ICC also updated its Classification of Official Cricket framework. Under the revised structure, teams participating in the Cricket World Cup Challenge League will remain eligible to play additional List A matches throughout each tournament cycle.
The latest decisions form part of the ICC’s broader efforts to modernise cricket, enhance playing conditions, and ensure the sport continues evolving with the help of technology and innovation.
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