ICC Introduces Five-Run Penalty for Time-Wasting Batters
DUBAI: Batters who repeatedly waste time could now cost their teams five runs, under a fresh set of ICC playing conditions that came into effect on October 1, 2026.
The International Cricket Council announced the changes on Thursday. They apply to every international series beginning on or after October 1, while series already under way will finish under the previous regulations.
How the time-wasting penalty works
Under the revised Condition 41.10.3, a batter who is not ready to face the ball within the prescribed time gets a warning for the first offence and a final warning for the second. The third and each subsequent offence costs the batting side five penalty runs, awarded to the fielding side.
“If a batter is not ready to face the ball within the prescribed time, a warning will be issued for the first offence, a final warning for the second, and five penalty runs awarded to the fielding side for the third and each subsequent offence,” the ICC said in its statement.
In multi-day cricket the count runs within an 80-over block, after which the warnings reset for the next block of the same innings. The prescribed time is broadly linked to the time the fielding side and bowler need to prepare; once the bowler reaches the top of the approach, the striker is generally expected to be ready. Repeated offences may also draw Code of Conduct charges.
The existing timed-out rule stays: a new batter still has two minutes to reach the crease and prepare for the first ball after a dismissal.
Pink balls in day Tests, and a new ball for women’s cricket
As a trial, teams may mutually agree to use a pink ball in daytime Tests to cut play lost to bad light. The agreement must come before the match and then applies for its full duration; switching balls mid-match is not allowed.
Women’s cricket gets a distinctly specified ball size and weight, with three separate specifications now covering men’s, women’s and junior cricket.
Other changes
A wicket falling in the final over of a day’s play will no longer automatically end play in multi-day cricket, provided weather and light allow continuation. Only deliberate attempts to hit the stumps will count as overthrows, umpires get discretion on when the ball is “finally settled”, and fielders must have complete control of the ball when breaking the stumps for run-outs and stumpings.
The ICC said the changes were brought in “to ensure the playing conditions continue to reflect the needs of the modern game while maintaining its integrity and consistency”.
Frequently asked questions
When do the new ICC playing conditions apply?
From October 1, 2026, for every international series that begins on or after that date. Series already in progress continue under the old rules.
How many warnings before the five-run penalty?
Two. A warning for the first offence, a final warning for the second, and five penalty runs for the third and each later offence.
Can pink balls be used in day Tests now?
Yes, as a trial and only by mutual agreement before the match. Once agreed, the pink ball stays for the whole game.
