ICC issues new playing conditions for one-dayers

Dubai, Sep 30 (PTI) The International Cricket Council
Tuesday announced new playing conditions that give liberty to
on-field umpires to consult the third umpire in case of
unclean catches and also bar players from taking 'comfort
breaks' in one-dayers.

The new rules, to be applicable from Wednesday, have been
aimed at improving the the quality of one-day cricket matches.

"These amendments, which were unanimously approved by all
10 Full Members and the three Associate Member representatives
on the C.E.C. at its meeting at the end of June, are designed
to improve the game for players, umpires and spectators,"
I.C.C. said in a statement.

The statement said Clause 2 of the playing conditions
with regard to substitute fielders will be amended.

"Substitute fielders shall only be permitted in cases of
injury, illness or other wholly acceptable reasons. 'Wholly
acceptable reasons' should be limited to extreme circumstances
and should not include what is commonly referred to as a
'comfort break'," the statement explained.

In case of clean catches, Clause 3.2.3.1 (b) will be
amended.

"Should both umpires be unable to make a decision, they
may consult by two-way radio with the third umpire as to
whether there is any definitive evidence as to whether the
catch was taken cleanly or not.

"Following such consultation, the final decision will be
made and given by the bowler's-end umpire. Should the
bowler's-end umpire still not be able to decide, a not-out
decision shall be given," I.C.C. said.

In another change in the playing conditions, "The batting
team will be permitted to choose when one of either the second
or third PowerPlays takes place."

Three fielders will be permitted outside the field
restriction areas during both the second and third PowerPlays.

Previously, the third fielder was allowed outside the
circle during either the second or third PowerPlay.

"The idea behind the amendment is to offer greater
opportunity for spinners to bowl with the safety net of more
protection," I.C.C. said.

However, the I.C.C. retained the rules regarding the
change of ball and free hits.

"It was agreed to continue with the playing condition
that requires a mandatory change of ball at the commencement
of the 35th over in ODIs.

"The current playing condition relating to free hits
following a foot fault no-ball in ODIs and Twenty20
Internationals is retained."

The amendment regarding the interval between innings
during One-Day International matches was implemented
immediately at the time of the C.E.C. meeting at the end of
June.