Cricket’s Test format could go through one of the biggest transformations in recent times. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has opened up the possibility of an experimental rule being implemented to keep matches away from disruption due to poor lighting, even when playing under floodlights.
The idea was ratified at the ICC Board’s last meeting and may result in teams using the pink ball in some Test matches instead of the red ball. The aim is easy: to keep the game running and not lose precious playtime when daylight starts to wane.
For decades, bad light has been one of the most frustrating aspects of Test cricket. Fans watch play stop when it’s time to play and teams lose valuable overs when the contest goes close. Now the cricket’s controlling body is thinking that technology and modern equipment can provide a feasible solution.
The pink ball is only used in day-night Tests and is more easily seen under artificial lighting. The hope is to minimize disruptions without compromising player safety by introducing it in specific moments.
But the ICC’s new rulings weren’t restricted to ball experiments.
International cricket also will be a more coach-friendly game. After a break of many years, head coaches and support personnel will now be able to speak directly to players on the field during their scheduled drinks breaks in ODI and T20 cricket. The transfer is similar to what’s already seen in leagues of other franchises globally.
Here technology will also be playing a larger role. Match officials will now have access to advanced tracking data when making a decision on suspected illegal actions which will provide them with more tools to make a correct decision.
There’s another rule adjustment that deals with wides. The ICC has decided to keep the batter’s movement at the time of delivery as a key reference point for umpiring leg-side wides, to add to the consistency of leg-side wides umpiring.
Governance matters also came under the spotlight at the meeting, off the field. Due to administration issues, Cricket Canada has been suspended, but Canadian players will continue to be allowed to compete in ICC events under the supervision of the governing body.
The recent rulings are indicative of the ICC trying to modernise cricket without changing its essence. From cutting down on time wasted, to utilizing technology more, to better coach-player communication, it seems the governing body is committed to making the game as efficient as possible for players and fans.
The trials will now be closely monitored in the world of cricket and some of the changes may become permanent in the future.
