Cricket has changed over the years. From 60 overs to T20s, from caps to helmets, from trousers to track pants. There was a time when there was no third umpire and now, the on-field umpires go upstairs for the smallest of things.
So naturally, as the game has evolved, the rules need to change too. Rules that are implemented to make the game as fair as possible. After a meeting earlier this year, the ICC agreed to make changes to some rules and all members agreed to adhere to those changes.
So as of October 1st, 2017, new cricket rules will be in effect and here's all you need to know about those changes.
1. The new run-out rule
Countless times we have seen that once the bat is inside the crease, it can suddenly pop up in the air. And if the bails are dislodged just then, the batsman is ruled out. Well, not anymore.
According to the new rule, once the bat has touched the ground beyond the crease, it means the batsman is in. Even if the bat somehow pops back up beyond the line and the stumps light up, it won't matter. The batsman will be ruled to have made his ground and therefore, not out.
2. The red card
Just like football, this new rule gives the umpires the authority to send players off for serious misconduct/violence on the field. This will ensure that the gentleman's game, is played like it is supposed to be.
Other issues of misconduct will be dealt according to the already established ICC rules.
3. The new DRS
As of now, if a DRS verdict returns to umpire's call, the team that has asked for the review loses the review. As of 1st October, that won't be the case. Umpire's call comes into effect when there is a benefit of doubt to be awarded. Sometimes ball tracking cannot establish whether the ball is completely hitting the stumps or just shaving it. In that case, the decision goes back to the umpire's call on the field. If that happens, the team won't lose a review.
In Test matches, the reviews are refreshed at the 80-over mark. As of now, a team is allowed two failed reviews and after 80-overs till the end of the innings, they are giving two more. From now on, there will be no top-up after the 80-over mark.
The ICC have also agreed that the DRS is to be used in all T20Is as well.
4. New bat sizes
The introduction of T20 has made cricket a batsman's game. ODIs too have seen an upsurge in runs being scored. The bats being thicker and broader probably provide the batsmen with some advantage over the bowlers. Hence, to curb that, ICC has introduced new dimensions for bats. They are will be limited to 108mm in width, 67mm in depth with 40mm edges.
Come 1st October, a new era is to begin. Let's see how much of a difference these new rules will make.
But these rules won't apply for the upcoming Australia tour of India. This is because that tour begins mid-September.