ICC’s New T20I Powerplay Rules Explained: What ICC’s Latest Update Means

The ICC has introduced new PowerPlay rules for rain-affected or shortened T20 matches, which will come into effect from July. These updated playing conditions clearly define how many overs the PowerPlay will last based on the reduced length of an innings. For example, in an ten-over innings, only the first 3 overs will be PowerPlay, during which just two fielders can be outside the 30-yard circle. In a five-over game, the PowerPlay will last for 1.3 overs.

According to the ICC’s updated table, the number of PowerPlay overs will now vary depending on the length of a shortened T20 innings. For example, a six-over innings will have 1.5 overs of PowerPlay, while a seven-over game will have 2.1 overs. In an eight-over match, it will be 2.2 overs, and for nine overs, it will be 2.4 overs. A 10-over innings will feature three PowerPlay overs increasing to 3.2 overs for an 11-over game and 3.4 overs for a 12-over innings.

Likewise, a 13-over innings will have 3.5 overs of PowerPlay, while a 14-over game will include 4.1 overs. For 15 overs, the PowerPlay will be 4.3 overs and in a 16-over innings, it will stretch to 4.5 overs as listed in the ICC’s updated playing conditions table.

ICC Introduces Stop Clock to Tackle Slow Over Rates in Tests

The ICC has introduced a set of new rules as part of the 2025–2027 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. One of the key changes focuses on over-rate discipline. According to the updated playing conditions, the fielding side must be ready to begin each new over within 60 seconds of completing the previous one. To help enforce this, a countdown clock will be displayed at the ground showing the time ticking from zero to 60 seconds.

If the bowling team is too slow, they’ll get two warnings. But if they delay a third time, the batting side will be awarded five penalty runs. This rule is designed to keep the game moving and avoid unnecessary hold-ups. Interestingly, the warnings reset once 80 overs have been bowled in the innings.

Another update gives the fielding captain the power to decide who takes strike if the batters try a deliberate short run. All these new rules officially came into play with the start of the new WTC cycle, which kicked off in Galle with Sri Lanka hosting Bangladesh in the first Test of a two-match series.

ALSO READ: