With the start of a new domestic cricket season in India, the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) has implemented big changes that will alter the game’s dynamics completely. The alterations affected various elements of the game such as premature batting retirements, ball tampering and boundary scoring.
With the Ranji Trophy kicking off today (Friday, October 11, 2024) there is a lot of excitement among players, coaches, and fans to see the impact of the new rules on the upcoming games.
Premature Batting Retirements
One of the most noticeable alterations is the new regulation concerning a batter’s exit from the game. As per the recent instruction from the BCCI, a batsman will be considered out instantly if they retire from the game for reasons other than injury, illness, or unavoidable circumstances. This indicates that even if the rival captain permits the batsman to come back, they are still not allowed to enter the crease again in that innings. This choice will greatly affect how players approach the game, highlighting the importance of mental strength and dedication to finishing the game. The BCCI’s goal is to maintain the game’s integrity and hold players responsible for their involvement in discouraging random retirements. This rule is applicable in all formats, from Test matches to limited overs cricket, and is even valid in Super Over scenarios.
Saliva Application = Ball Tampering
Recalling the ban on saliva on balls is another point made in the BCCI statement. For the sport’s health and safety requirements, this pandemic-era regulation is still essential. The ball shall be changed right away and the offending team shall be penalized if they use saliva to shine the ball. As every team has to adjust to this new rule, the measure not only safeguards players but also upholds fair play.
Aborting a run
Another important update addresses how aborted runs are managed. If batsmen choose to stop running after passing each other, and an overthrow results in a boundary being scored, only four runs will be given.
