The ICC, the group that runs cricket, has announced new rules for the upcoming season.
Under the new rules, running out a non-striker at the end of a bowler’s run-up has now been moved from the ‘Unfair Play’ section of the rules to be completely legitimised under the ‘Run Out’ section of ICC rules and regulations.
This kind of dismissal was called a Mankad. Named after Indian bowler Vinoo Mankad, who made the tactic infamous against an Australian batsman in 1948.
Among other changes implemented by the ICC, a new batter will face the next delivery after a catch, even if the previous batters had crossed ends before it was taken.
A temporary ban on using saliva to shine cricket balls – introduced as a preventative measure during COVID-19 – is now permanent, while the time limit for incoming batters during test and ODIs has been reduced from three minutes to two.
Another new rule will penalise a bowling team five runs, if fielders make any unfair and deliberate movements during a bowler’s run-up.
Finally, new hybrid pitches – made with a blend of natural grass and artificial turf – have now been cleared for use in all one-day and Twenty20 internationals, after only being used previously in women’s T20Is.
