What is the New Wide-Ball rule?
The ICC’s new wide rule, trialed from October 2025, aims to balance the bowler-batter dynamic in white-ball cricket. By redefining wide calls based on the batter’s position, it pushes batters to refine their leg-side game, enhancing tactical depth. So, what is the new wide-ball rule?
Understanding the New Wide Rule
Starting October 2025, the ICC will trial a revised wide rule in ODIs and T20Is for six months. The rule uses the batter’s leg position at the point of delivery as the reference for wide calls. A ball passing between the leg stump and the protected area marker at the popping crease won’t be deemed wide, even if it passes behind the batter’s legs. This contrasts with the current rule, which considers the batter’s movement during delivery, potentially allowing manipulation of wide calls.
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Impact Observed in TNPL
The Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) tried a similar rule in 2025, resulting in fewer wides (275 vs. 319 in 2023). Surprisingly, runs increased to 10,048 from 9,570 in 2023, with sixes rising from 418 to 463. Batters adapted by employing leg glances and flicks, showcasing versatility against deliveries previously called wides.
Bowlers Gain Tactical Edge
Bowlers like T Natarajan noted an advantage, particularly in death overs, with yorkers gaining a margin of error. Varun Chakravarthy highlighted that pacers benefit more, using varied deliveries like yorkers and bouncers, while spinners gain from off-target googlies not being penalized.
Batters Must Evolve
The rule demands batters enhance their leg-side play, as flat-batting dominates T20s. With potential DRS for wides in international games, umpiring complexity may rise, but the rule adds unpredictability, potentially deciding matches. This shift promises a thrilling bat-ball contest, rewarding skill and adaptability in the future of the sport.
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