The International Cricket Council has approved trials allowing a switch from red to pink ball during Test matches when bad light threatens to cut playing time. Both sides must consent before the match for the change if weather conditions require play under lights.
The ICC board endorsed the Chief Executives Committee proposals at its Ahmedabad meeting on Sunday. The idea of using different balls in one Test was among several measures approved. Previously, Tests used either red or pink balls.
Pink balls debuted in day-night Tests with Australia versus New Zealand at Adelaide in 2015. Australia regularly stages such matches, yet other nations have rarely adopted them. India last hosted one against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru in 2022, while England has held only one, against the West Indies in 2017.
It remains unclear how many teams will try the option, especially with World Test Championship points at stake. Pink balls have tended to assist seam bowlers and challenge batters, particularly in twilight.
Current rules already permit floodlights if both teams agree beforehand, provided artificial light does not exceed natural light. The new measure allows pink-ball play under lights to prevent lost time.
In India, early sunsets have caused bad-light stoppages in Kolkata and Guwahati. Winter light can also be limited at northern venues. With India due to host Australia in Guwahati next year, and given Australia’s experience with pink balls, it is uncertain whether the hosts will accept the trial.
The ICC is funding research with the Marylebone Cricket Club into improved lighting technology to minimise delays from poor visibility. Officials will also gain access to Hawk-Eye data for judging illegal bowling actions.
A ball passing between leg stump and the protected-area marker will no longer be called wide. Markers will shift if the batter moves before delivery, matching recent white-ball practice. The leg-side wide rule is now permanent in white-ball cricket.
Head coaches and support staff may enter the field during scheduled breaks in ODIs, as already allowed in T20Is.
Concerned about expanding franchise leagues, including two new events in Europe, the ICC will form a committee to protect the international calendar.
The Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 has been moved to February 14-28. A 10-team Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy will be piloted in 2026. A Global Qualifier for the Men’s T20 World Cup is also planned.
Cricket Canada has been suspended from ICC membership for breaching obligations.
