ICC New Rules 2025: Single Ball Returns in ODIs, Concussion Sub Updates & More Set for June Implementation

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ICC New Rules 2025: The International Cricket Council (ICC) is all set to usher in a new era of playing regulations starting this June, with a particularly eye-catching revamp to the One Day Internationals (ODIs).

From single-ball strategies to stricter concussion protocols, these sweeping changes aim to balance tradition with innovation in the modern game.

The ICC, in a detailed communique to its member boards, confirmed that the revised Playing Conditions (PCs) will take immediate effect. Test matches will adopt the new rules from June itself, while white-ball internationals-ODIs and T20Is-will see changes implemented in July.

The Return of the Single Ball in ODIs

Perhaps the most striking amendment is the ICC's decision to phase out the dual-ball rule in ODIs. Since 2011, the 50-over format has been played with two new balls-one from each end-to ensure consistent swing and seam throughout the innings. However, concerns over the ball ageing too slowly, thereby diminishing reverse swing and reducing the role of spinners in middle overs, have led to this rethink.

Starting in July, ODIs will once again begin with two new balls, but only one will see the match through to the end. As per the ICC's new directive, "There will be two new balls for overs 1 to 34. After over 34 is completed and prior to the start of over 35, the fielding team will choose one of the two balls to be used for overs 35 to 50. The chosen ball will be used at both ends for the remainder of the match (unless it needs to be changed)."

This move is expected to reintroduce late-innings reverse swing and add more unpredictability to death overs. Moreover, in rain-affected matches reduced to 25 overs or fewer before the first innings begins, teams will only be allotted one new ball per innings, simplifying things for both players and spectators.

Concussion Rules Get a Makeover

Player safety remains paramount, and the ICC has tightened its concussion substitution protocol. In a move inspired by similar practices in rugby and football, teams must now pre-nominate five concussion substitutes-comprising one batter, one wicketkeeper, one spinner, one pacer, and one all-rounder-before the start of a match.

This provides clarity and uniformity in what has previously been a grey area. However, the ICC has built in a failsafe. In what it calls an "exceptional and rare circumstance," should a concussion substitute also suffer a concussion, the match referee has the authority to allow a replacement outside the five nominated players. Crucially, the substitute must still meet the "like-for-like" criteria to maintain fairness.

Other Amendments: Boundary Line Drama and DRS Clarity

While finer details remain under wraps for now, the ICC has signalled impending tweaks to the laws governing boundary catches and the Decision Review System (DRS). It is understood that clarity around airborne fielders completing catches near or over the boundary rope, a frequent source of confusion and contention, is on the cards. The ICC has assured that updates will be shared shortly with teams and officials.

Similarly, some refinements to the DRS protocol are anticipated-particularly around the timing and procedures of player reviews-to bring about smoother, more consistent decision-making.

What Stays the Same?

Despite these major alterations, the ICC has retained some existing playing conditions. For instance, if a ball needs to be replaced mid-innings due to damage or loss, it will be swapped with one of "similar condition." Interestingly, the ball not selected for use in overs 35-50 will become part of the replacement ball pool. This ensures continuity and prevents teams from manipulating conditions by choosing a more favourable ball mid-game.

Staggered Implementation Timeline

• Test Matches: From 17 June, starting with the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh clash in Galle—marking the beginning of the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
• ODIs: From 2 July in Colombo, during the ODI series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
• T20Is: From 10 July, in the same series.

The much-anticipated WTC Final, scheduled to commence on 11 June at Lord’s between Australia and South Africa, will not be affected and will follow the existing rules. The new conditions kick in for the subsequent cycle.