Image Source: AP
[Saba Sports News] The experimental stop clock rule is slated for permanent adoption in international cricket, set to be enforced at the forthcoming T20 World Cup in June. Initially introduced on a trial basis by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in December last year, it’s now poised to become a standard aspect of the game’s regulations.
This regulation mandates an electronic clock to be displayed between overs, applicable not only in T20 Internationals but also in all forms of white-ball cricket, including One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Its chief aim is to ensure games finish on time.
Under this rule, the fielding team has 60 seconds to start the next over once the previous one concludes. Failure to do so within this timeframe could result in penalties for each infringement.
Umpires are tasked with enforcing this rule, with the third umpire activating the timer, and on-field umpires providing initial warnings before levying a five-run penalty for subsequent offenses. They hold the discretion to account for any delays due to the batsmen, Decision Review System (DRS) calls, or unexpected delays.
Having been in trial since December 2023, the ICC, alongside its cricket committee, found the rule beneficial and opted for its permanent integration into all ICC white ball matches. The rule’s confirmation came during the ICC’s recent meetings in Dubai.
The ICC Board and the influential IBC board are scheduled for a meeting this Friday. While the Champions Trophy’s hosting and India’s anticipated non-participation in Pakistan are hot topics, it’s unclear if these issues will be addressed, given the recent implementation of a hybrid model for the previous Asia Cup.