Ahmedabad, June 2: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a series of significant decisions following its Board meetings in Ahmedabad, India, aimed at strengthening cricket governance, expanding women’s cricket, improving playing conditions, and addressing the growing influence of franchise leagues worldwide.
Among the key regulatory changes approved by the ICC Board is the trial use of the pink ball in Test cricket, subject to agreement between participating teams, to reduce interruptions caused by poor light. The Board also approved research into advanced lighting technology for venues and match officials, with the ICC partnering the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in funding research and development projects.
In a move to improve officiating standards, match officials will now have access to Hawk-Eye data when assessing potentially illegal bowling actions. The Board also introduced updates to playing conditions, including permitting head coaches to communicate with players during scheduled drinks breaks, mandating 15-minute intervals in T20 Internationals, and requiring batters to be ready immediately when play resumes. The successful leg-side wides trial has been adopted permanently.
Women’s cricket received a major boost, with the ICC Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 rescheduled from June-July to February 14-28, 2027. The ICC also approved the launch of the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, a 10-team competition featuring five Full Members and five Associate Members.
The Board further endorsed the qualification pathway for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2028, which will feature 12 teams. Meanwhile, a new global qualification structure for Associate nations aiming to reach future Men’s T20 World Cups was also approved.
The ICC suspended Cricket Canada with immediate effect due to governance breaches, although Canadian teams will remain eligible for ICC events. Additionally, the Board expressed concern over the rapid expansion of franchise cricket and formed a committee to explore better alignment between franchise leagues and the international calendar.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah said the decisions reflect the governing body’s commitment to ensuring cricket remains fair, competitive, and globally inclusive.
