ICC Tweaks PowerPlay Rules for Shortened T20Is

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced changes to the Playing Conditions in Twenty20 Internationals, focusing on the PowerPlay calculations. The key alteration is the rounding of the PowerPlay length to the nearest ball, rather than the nearest over.

This change aims to maintain the 30% proportion of PowerPlay overs in shortened innings. The ICC has also clarified the concussion replacement process in Men's T20I matches, ensuring a more level playing field between teams.

Concussion Replacement Process

The ICC has introduced a new concussion replacement process, where teams must nominate and name their concussion replacements before the match. The preferred requirement is to nominate:

• One wicketkeeper
• One batter
• One seam bowler
• One spin bowler
• One all-rounder

Teams can nominate the same player for more than one category, and the referee will have discretion to determine the replacement based on the circumstances.

Home and Away Team Considerations

For the home team, it will be easier to nominate 5 specific replacement players, as they can nominate from outside the squad selected for the match.

For the away team, they will typically nominate the 3 players not in the playing XI on the form, with two of them nominated twice. If a replacement is required, it will be dealt with at the time based on the principle of a like-for-like replacement from the nominations.

Ball Condition and Replacement

The ICC has also introduced a new clause, stating that if any substance, including saliva, is used to change the condition of the ball, it is mandatory for the ball to be replaced. This change aims to prevent teams from deliberately applying saliva to get the ball replaced.

Effective Date

These changes will come into effect from July 10, 2025, and will only apply to Men's playing conditions. Women's playing conditions will be updated in October.