DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved changes to the rules of cricket during a recent board meeting, officials confirmed.
The decisions were made during the ICC Board meeting held in Ahmedabad, India, covering updates to cricket laws, women’s cricket and issues related to Cricket Canada.
Under the new regulations, a pink ball can now be used in Test matches in conditions of poor lighting. For illegal bowling actions, Hawk-Eye technology will be employed. Additionally, coaches will be allowed to enter the field during water breaks in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) to consult with players.
The board also decided to reduce innings breaks in T20 matches from 20 minutes to 15 minutes, while the trial law allowing league-style wide deliveries has been permanently adopted.
In a separate decision, the ICC suspended Canada’s membership in the ICC, although Canadian teams will continue to participate in international competitions.
Regarding women’s cricket, the Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 has been rescheduled to take place from 14 to 28 February, instead of the previously planned June–July window.
Historic Moment: Pakistan to Host Women’s T20 World Cup 2028
Similarly, The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially awarded Pakistan the hosting rights for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2028, marking a significant milestone for the country’s cricketing profile on the global stage.
The decision came following the approval made by the ICC headquarters, wherein the proposal for the holding of the competition in Pakistan was passed.
The Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 is going to witness participation from 12 different teams. As per the structure of qualification, 10 teams will qualify automatically, which will consist of the top eight teams from the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, the hosting team if it hasn’t yet qualified along with others according to the ICC Women’s T20I rankings up until July 6, 2026.
The other two places will be taken through the qualifier round of the globe.
The ICC added that the games of India will be held in neutral grounds as per the current agreements. The detailed schedule and fixtures will be determined at the ICC meeting in July.
Hosting various international competitions earlier on, Pakistan now has strengthened its status as one of the hosting nations.
The development is being seen as a major boost for women’s cricket in the country with expectations that it will help promote the game and improve infrastructure and participation at the grassroots level.
