ICC moots red to pink ball switch during Tests

The International Cricket Council is contemplating major changes to playing conditions across red-ball, white-ball and pink-ball cricket, including the possibility of using different coloured balls in the same format. The changes are under discussion and could come into effect soon, subject to approval by the ICC Board at its meeting in Ahmedabad on May 30.

Among the proposed changes is allowing the head coach to enter the field during drinks breaks, primarily aimed at ODI cricket. Currently, only substitute players are permitted to enter the field of play. In T20Is, the head coach is already allowed to consult with players during drinks breaks.

The ICC also plans to reduce the innings break in T20Is from 20 minutes to 15 minutes.

Another proposed addition is giving on-field umpires access to HawkEye data to check bowlers for illegal actions during matches.

Perhaps the most significant amendment is the possibility of switching from the red ball to the pink ball during a conventional Test match. Teams may be permitted to use the pink ball, if both sides agree, in the event of weather interruptions and continue under lights. The operative phrase is 'mutual consent', which needs to be obtained before the start of the series. Cricbuzz understands the rules will come into force from October 1.

These proposed changes were discussed during the ICC Chief Executives Committee meeting held virtually, with Sourav Ganguly, head of the ICC Cricket Committee, among the participants.