The use of pink ball on trial basis during Test matches in case of bad light has been approved by ICC’s board at its annual meeting, held in Ahmedabad. In another major change to playing conditions approved by the ICC, head coaches would be allowed inside the field of play during the drinks break.
“Trialling the use of a pink ball in Test Matches, with prior agreement from both teams, to maximise play in case of anticipated bad light,” an ICC statement read.
The match will begin with the traditional red ball. However, if bad light stops play, floodlights can be switched on and a pink ball may be used to complete the remaining overs that would otherwise be lost.
How will this work? A full day of Test cricket consists of 90 overs. For example, if 75 overs have been bowled with the red ball and fading light prevents the remaining 15 overs from being completed, those overs can be played under floodlights with a pink ball. However, this can only happen if both teams agree to the arrangement before the series begins.
It remains to be seen whether India will agree to such a rule. Indian players have traditionally been reluctant to play pink-ball Tests at home and even limited use of the pink ball could influence the outcome of a match because it tends to offer more movement for seam bowlers.
The ICC Board has also approved research into improved lighting technology for stadiums and match officials to reduce time lost due to poor light. The ICC will jointly fund these research and development projects with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
Another change approved by the ICC is the introduction of strategic time-outs in Test cricket. Similar to T20 matches, coaches and support staff will now be allowed to enter the field during designated breaks to discuss tactics with players.
“Updates to the Playing Conditions to allow head coaches or their designees to consult with teams during scheduled drinks intervals, mandate 15-minute intervals in T20I matches, and require batters to be ready at the resumption of play.”
Also, to keep a check on illegal bowling action, on-field umpires will have an access to Hawk Eye Data. “Enabling match officials to access Hawk-Eye data when considering reporting an illegal bowling action,” the rule states.
All ICC playing conditions will be implemented from October 1, 2026.
The two day meeting was held in Ahmedabad, where the board of directors also decided to suspend Cricket Canada on charges of corruption while delegating top ICC officials to oversee the Bangladesh Cricket Board elections.
