In a significant move that could reshape the dynamics of One Day International (ODI) cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering two new balls as part of a broader effort to restore balance between bat and ball. The proposal aims to give fast bowlers more support by making reverse swing a factor again in the latter stages of an innings.
Reverse Swing May Return to the Fore
The current rule in ODIs allows the use of two new balls—one from each end—which results in the ball staying newer for longer. This setup, while benefiting batters by maintaining a hard and shiny ball, has significantly reduced reverse swing, making life tougher for pacers, especially during the death overs.
Now, with the ICC considering two new balls in a different configuration or possibly reducing the number back to one, reverse swing could make a comeback. According to reports from Cricbuzz, this potential change is not a complete reversal of current playing conditions but a tweak aimed at injecting more competition into the game.
Helping Bowlers Stay Relevant in Flat-Batting Eras
The last decade has seen ODI cricket become increasingly batter-friendly, with high scores becoming the norm. Flat pitches, bigger bats, and smaller boundaries have often tilted the game toward batters. Bowlers have had limited tools in the death overs, where variations and yorkers remain their only real weapons.
The idea of revisiting how two new balls in ODIs are used could provide bowlers—especially swing and seam specialists—more control as the innings progresses. Reverse swing, which was once a deadly tactic in the middle and death overs, could re-emerge as a game-changer.
Other Potential Changes Under Review
While ICC considering two new balls is a hot topic, it’s not the only development on the table. The governing body is also weighing the introduction of in-game clocks in Test matches to improve over rates, ensuring that the pace of play doesn’t lag during long sessions.
In another forward-looking move, the ICC is exploring the possibility of converting the men’s Under-19 World Cup into a T20 format. This would align junior-level cricket more closely with the direction the senior game is heading, particularly with T20 being the most commercially successful and widely viewed format.
What’s Next?
As the ICC looks to adapt the game for evolving viewer preferences while maintaining fairness and competitiveness, these changes—especially the idea of two new balls in ODIs—could have a lasting impact. While nothing is confirmed yet, cricket fans and experts will be watching closely as these proposals move through the evaluation process.
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