The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a trial use of pink balls in Test matches to address the persistent issue of bad light interrupting play. The decision, which requires agreement from both competing teams, was approved during ICC board meetings held on the sidelines of the Indian Premier League (IPL) final. This move is part of a broader set of reforms covering playing conditions, governance, and global competition structures.
Pink Ball to Enhance Visibility
The pink ball, known for its higher visibility under artificial lighting, is expected to be particularly effective during twilight conditions. If implemented, the trial could preserve crucial playing time and improve the spectator experience. Sources indicate that the pink ball could be especially beneficial in cities where weather conditions frequently disrupt play.
Technology and Rule Adjustments
In addition to the pink ball trial, match officials will now have access to Hawk-Eye data when assessing suspected illegal bowling actions. The ICC will also collaborate with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to research improved lighting technologies for umpires and venues. The ICC board has confirmed the permanent adoption of the leg-side wides trial, while other MCC law amendments will come into effect from October 1, 2026. Changes were also approved for player-coach interactions in white-ball internationals, allowing head coaches to enter the field during official drinks breaks in One Day Internationals (ODIs), aligning with existing T20 International (T20I) regulations.
Franchise Cricket Under Scrutiny
The ICC expressed concern over the rapid expansion of franchise leagues worldwide and has decided to form a dedicated committee to study how these competitions can be better aligned with the international calendar. ICC Chairman Jay Shah stated, "From women's cricket to franchise leagues, these decisions aim to keep cricket fair, competitive and engaging."
Focus on Women's Cricket
The ICC Women's Champions Trophy 2027 has been rescheduled from June-July to February 14-28. Additionally, a Women's Emerging Nations Trophy will be piloted in 2026 as a 10-team tournament featuring five Full Members and five Associate Members. The qualification pathway for the 2028 ICC Women's T20 World Cup in Pakistan was also ratified. The 12-team event will see 10 teams qualify automatically, including the top eight from the 2026 edition, the host nation (if not already qualified), and the next highest-ranked side. The remaining two spots will be decided through a global qualifier.
Meanwhile, Cricket Canada has been suspended from ICC membership with immediate effect due to serious breaches of its obligations, though its national teams will remain eligible for ICC events.
