Why is ICC Changing the Two ball rule in ODI?
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering a major change in the ODI format of the game by potentially changing the two-ball system. A change that could have a lasting impact on the game, let’s take a look at why is ICC Changing the two ball rule in ODI?
Why Is the Two-Ball Rule Being Updated?
The two-ball rule was first introduced to maintain a cleaner white ball throughout the innings, which has been facing growing criticism from cricket pundits and former players. Using a new ball from each innings, which means neither ball gets old enough to reverse swing a skill bowlers used to rely on mostly in the death overs.
Stay tuned with Stumps and Bails for exclusive coverage of the IPL 2025
Cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar have long called the rule a “recipe for disaster,” stating it favors batters too much and removes balance from the game. With both balls impacting the shine, bowlers have lost one of their major weapons in the final overs. The ICC, which is chaired by Jay Shah, now proposes a solution: allow two new balls at the start, but from the 25-over mark, continue with only one of the two. This offers the ball more time to age, which could allow reverse swing to return without fully discarding the two-ball concept.
How will the Change impact the game?
If the new rule change is adopted, this change would shift the balance slightly back toward the bowlers. A single ball used from over 25 to 50 means wear and tear will come into play making reverse swing a real threat again. This could bring back excitement in the death overs and challenge batters more, especially in high-scoring ODIs where bowling sides often struggle.
The change also addresses practical issues. White balls currently need replacing by the 35th over, but with only one ball used after the halfway mark, the new rule ensures better longevity. If approved, this rule would be a step toward restoring competitiveness between bat and ball in the modern ODI format.
DOWNLOAD: STUMPSANDBAILS FANTASY CRICKET APP
DOWNLOAD: DRAGOZ SPORTS FANTASY CRICKET APP
