The ICC has overhauled its playing conditions for series starting October 1. Here is what changes.

Pink balls can now be trialled in daytime Tests if both teams agree before the match. The aim is to lose fewer overs to bad light, since pink balls stay visible longer. No switching mid-match is allowed.

Batters who waste time in men’s cricket face penalties. A batter not ready in time gets a warning, then a final warning, and from the third offence the fielding side gets five penalty runs. This follows incidents like the Lord’s Test in 2025 involving Zak Crawley.

Play will no longer end automatically when a wicket falls in the final over of the day if time remains. Run-outs now need the fielder to show complete control of the ball.

In white-ball cricket, leg-side wides are permanent, T20Is get a fixed 15-minute interval, and coaches can enter the field during drinks breaks.