Sport · Sri Lanka Bureau
ICC approves pink-ball daytime Tests, tightens time-wasting rules
Cricket's governing body has greenlit the use of pink balls in daytime Test matches to combat playing time lost to poor light, as part of sweeping changes to international match regulations effective from October 1.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The International Cricket Council has introduced a trial permitting pink-ball cricket in daytime Test matches, marking a significant shift in the sport's traditional playing conditions. The measure aims to maximise playing time by reducing interruptions caused by bad light, a persistent challenge in Test cricket played under natural daylight.
The pink-ball provision forms part of a broader package of Playing Conditions amendments set to take effect from October 1 for all international series commencing after that date. The ICC has also introduced new penalties targeting time-wasting behaviour during matches, reflecting the governing body's commitment to improving the pace of play and maintaining spectator engagement.
The changes represent the ICC's latest attempt to modernise Test cricket while preserving the format's traditional character. The pink-ball trial had previously been tested in limited formats and domestic competitions, with proponents noting improved visibility compared to traditional red balls under artificial and natural light conditions.
Cricket boards and franchises will implement the new regulations across their international fixtures beginning next month, with the ICC monitoring the effectiveness of the changes throughout the trial period. The amendments reflect growing efforts within international cricket to balance tradition with innovation as the sport adapts to contemporary challenges.