Sports
ICC Modifies Two-Ball Rule and Strengthens Concussion Protocols
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced significant updates to the playing conditions for men’s international cricket. Key adjustments include modifications to the two-ball rule for ODIs and improvements to the concussion-substitute protocol.
These changes will take effect on June 17 for Test matches, July 2 for ODIs, and July 10 for T20Is, as reported by ESPN Cricinfo.
—
Currently in ODIs, two new balls are used from the start of the innings—one from each end. The updated rules will keep this in place until the end of the 34th over. After that, the bowling team must select one of the two balls to use for the remaining 16 overs from both ends.
—
The ICC stated this change aims to “restore the balance between bat and ball.” In ODIs that are reduced to 25 overs or fewer before the innings begins, only one new ball will be used throughout.
Changes have also been made to concussion substitute protocols. Teams must now submit a list of five substitute players to the match referee before the game, categorized by position: one wicketkeeper, one batter, one seam bowler, one spin bowler, and one all-rounder.
This measure is designed to eliminate confusion and ensure equitable like-for-like replacements.
This adjustment comes in response to earlier controversies this year, notably when India substituted allrounder Shivam Dube with bowler Harshit Rana during a T20I against England, where Rana achieved decisive figures of 3/33, sparking debates about fairness surrounding the change.
If a concussion substitute suffers a head injury, the match referee may allow a replacement from outside the nominated five while still adhering to the like-for-like principle.
Fielding regulations have also been updated, as the MCC has prohibited the previously allowed “bunny hop” beyond the boundary line for completing catches, further clarifying what constitutes a legal dismissal.
—
Royal Challengers Bengaluru created history in the Women’s Premier League by scoring the highest number of runs in the first over of a match. RCB scored a massive 23 runs in the opening over, setting a new WPL record.
This historic moment took place during the match against Gujarat Giants at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Gujarat Giants bowler Renuka Singh Thakur conceded 23 runs in the first over, making it the most expensive opening over in WPL history.
Renuka began the over with a wide delivery. The ball went past the wicketkeeper and crossed the boundary, resulting in five runs. RCB batter Grace Harris then took charge of the over. She smashed four consecutive boundaries, putting the Gujarat Giants under pressure.
During the over, Renuka Singh bowled two more wides, adding extra runs to the total. On the final delivery of the over, Grace Harris struck another boundary. This completed a dramatic and record-breaking first over for RCB.
With this, Renuka Singh Thakur recorded the most expensive first over ever bowled in the Women’s Premier League. The previous record was held by Tanuja Kanwar. She had conceded 21 runs in the first over while playing for Gujarat Giants against Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season.
In the same match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru batted first and put up a strong total. RCB scored 182 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. The team showed aggressive batting throughout the innings.
READ MORE: Mandya: Wedding Preparations End in Tragedy
Gujarat Giants chased the target but failed to keep up with the required run rate. They were bowled out for 150 runs in 18.5 overs. As a result, Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the match by 32 runs.
This victory strengthened RCB’s position in the tournament and added a historic achievement to the Women’s Premier League records.
On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.
South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.
India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.
READ MORE :Six Killed in Separate Accidents in Andhra Pradesh
The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.
India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.
Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.
READ MORE : Chennai: Man Dies After Ignoring Dog Bite
India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.
Gold Prices Edge Up in India on January 19, 2026
Husband Arrested for Killing Wife After Drunken Argument
Chicken Malai Tikka Remains a Favourite North Indian Appetizer
Meet Bubu and Dudu: The Adorable Cartoon Couple Captivating Hearts Around the Globe!
“Hidden Love” Spin-Off “The First Frost” Now Streaming on Netflix
