ICC bends Rules to make Bowlers ‘relevant’ in ODI Cricket

Due to the changes to ODI cricket in the last few years, the bowlers always found themselves at the receiving end. However, thanks to the good sense that prevailed the in the end because of experts such as Anil Kumble, the ICC finally decided to bring drastic changes to the rules in order to make the bowlers ‘more relevant’ in the short format of cricket.

Here are the Key Changes:

1. The Batting Powerplay between 15-40 overs, was scrapped. While the first 15 overs will be the powerplay as per the old rules, there won’t be any specific powerplay for the batsmen.

2. Five fielders will be allowed outside the 30-yard circle in the last 10 overs. Earlier, it was limited to four players.

3. There will be no compulsory catchers in the first 10 overs. Earlier, it was made mandatory for the captain to post at least two players in catching positions in the first 10 overs.

4. All no-balls bowled by the bowlers, will have free hits. Earlier, only free hit was being given only when the bowlers crossed their line completely.