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ICC approves pink-ball use for Tests

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a series of significant changes to the game, including allowing all teams the use of a pink ball in Test cricket in the event of bad light.

The ICC also approved the permanent adoption of leg-side wides as part of a wide-ranging series of measures designed to improve the game.

Following the conclusion of its board meetings in Ahmedabad on Sunday, the ICC also expressed concern over the rapid growth of franchise cricket around the world.

In a statement on Monday, the ICC said that under the new trial, Test-playing nations will be permitted to use a pink ball in Test matches, provided both teams have agreed.

The move is aimed at reducing time lost to poor light and improving the chances of completing full days of play.

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There have been pink-ball Test matches since 2015, but previously it was not permitted to interchange the pink ball with the traditional red ball.

The ICC will also partner with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to investigate new lighting technologies for players, officials and venues, with the governing body co-funding research and development projects.

In another notable change, the ICC confirmed the permanent adoption of the leg-side wides trial, which has been used in some limited-overs competitions. Match officials will also be granted access to Hawk-Eye data when considering whether to report a suspect bowling action.

The Board further approved changes allowing head coaches to communicate with players during scheduled drinks breaks.

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Away from playing conditions, the ICC raised concerns about the growing influence of franchise cricket. The Board agreed to establish a dedicated committee to examine how domestic T20 leagues can be better aligned with the international calendar.

“The discussions and decisions aim to ensure that cricket remains fair, competitive and exciting for fans worldwide,” ICC chairman Jay Shah said.

The Board also suspended Cricket Canada with immediate effect following what it described as serious breaches of membership obligations. Canadian national teams will remain eligible for ICC events and continue receiving funding through a controlled mechanism while governance issues are addressed.

Meanwhile, the ICC is also keeping a close eye on developments in Bangladesh cricket.

“ICC Board representatives, Dr Mohammed Moosaje (Cricket South Africa) and Tavengwa Mukuhlani (Zimbabwe Cricket), are scheduled to visit Bangladesh to engage with stakeholders regarding the situation in Bangladesh including the BCB electoral process,” the ICC said.

Photo: Paul Kane/Getty Images

 

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