Xtra Time Web Desk: In a bid to expedite cricket matches, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has incorporated a significant change in the Men’s playing conditions starting from the five match T20I series between England and West Indies starting in Barbados from Tuesday, December 12.
The introduction of a stop clock, outlined in clause 41.9.4 of the revised Men’s ODI and T20I playing conditions, aims to curtail time wastage by the fielding side. The clock will be on trial during Full Member Men’s ODIs and T20Is from December 2023 to April 2024, encompassing around 59 international fixtures.
According to the updated regulations, the fielding side must commence a new over within 60 seconds of the preceding one. An electronic clock, visibly counting down from 60 to zero, will be prominently displayed at the venue. Failure to adhere to this timeframe will result in two warnings, followed by a consequential five-run penalty.
Exceptions to the 60-second rule include scenarios such as a new batter arriving, an official drinks interval, on-field treatment approved by umpires, or unforeseen circumstances beyond the fielding side’s control. The third umpire is entrusted with initiating the clock, either after the last ball of the previous over or the completion of any umpire or player reviews. If the fielding side is ready within the stipulated time, but the batting team is not prepared to resume, the umpires will assess if provisions related to batter time-wasting are applicable.