The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved several major changes to the laws of cricket during its Board meeting in India.
The meeting resulted in a number of important decisions concerning the playing conditions, women’s cricket, and the status of Cricket Canada.
Under the new regulations, the pink ball may now be used in Test matches with the mutual consent of both participating teams.
The Board also approved allowing umpires to access Hawkeye data when reviewing suspected illegal bowling actions.
In addition, the ICC decided to permanently adopt the League-Wide Trial regulations following their successful implementation.
The meeting further approved rescheduling the Women’s Champions Trophy 2027, which will now be held from February 14 to 28 instead of its previously planned June–July window.
The ICC also suspended Cricket Canada’s membership due to governance irregularities. However, Canada’s national teams will remain eligible to participate in ICC events during the suspension period.
The Board expressed concern over the growing expansion of franchise cricket around the world and discussed measures to maintain a balance between franchise and international cricket.
Furthermore, two ICC Board representatives will visit Bangladesh to engage with stakeholders and review developments in the country, including the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s election process.
The ICC Board meeting expressed concern over the growing influence of franchise cricket around the world. To address the issue, the Board decided to establish a special committee aimed at maintaining a balance between franchise cricket and international cricket.
The committee will review the international cricket calendar as well as the schedules of various franchise leagues and will develop recommendations to ensure greater harmony between the two formats of the game.
Pakistan to host Women’s T20 WC 2028
According to an ICC announcement, Pakistan has been awarded the hosting rights for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2028, while India will play its matches at neutral venues.
The break period between innings in T20 matches has been increased to 15 minutes. In addition, the window for the Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 has been revised and will now be held from 14 to 28 February 2027, instead of June and July.
According to the announcement, 10 teams will participate in the ICC Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, including five Full Members and five Associate teams.
The ICC has also approved the introduction of a 16-team global qualifier for the Men’s T20 World Cup.
Meanwhile, the membership of the Canada Cricket Board has been suspended due to serious violations; however, despite the suspension, the Canadian national team will continue to participate in ICC events.
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