With the domestic cricket season set to begin in India, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced key rule changes for the Ranji Trophy, starting October 11. These updates, focused on preventing unfair play and enhancing the integrity of the game, cover everything from batting strategies to bowling regulations. Let’s take a look at what’s new for this year’s domestic season.
No More Mid-Inning Breaks for Batsmen
A significant change in the new rules is directed at batsmen. The BCCI has put a stop to the practice where batsmen, without any injury, used to retire mid-innings to rest and later resume their batting. This has often been a way for players to refresh themselves before coming back to face difficult bowling. Under the new rule, if a batsman retires without being injured, he will be considered out and won’t be allowed to return, even if the opposing captain agrees. This change will be enforced in all multi-day and limited-over domestic matches, including the Ranji Trophy.
Saliva Ban and Strict Bowling Rules
BCCI has also tightened the rules regarding ball tampering, particularly the use of saliva. In line with international guidelines, any team found using saliva on the ball will face immediate penalties, and the ball will be replaced. This aims to maintain fair play and ensure that the conditions of the game are not altered by illegal methods.
New Rule for Run Calculation
Another key update pertains to run calculations in the case of overthrows. If an overthrow occurs and the batsmen have already completed a run before a boundary is hit, the score will only reflect the boundary—four runs will be added instead of counting the run and the boundary. This rule aligns with recent decisions made during the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 discussions. The intention is to standardize scoring practices and prevent confusion during play.
Introduction of Super Over in Domestic Cricket
For the first time, BCCI has also opened the possibility of introducing Super Over in domestic matches, adding excitement and a decisive way to resolve tied matches. While details on how and when this will be applied have not been fully disclosed, this change brings a thrilling twist to the domestic cricket scene, particularly in tightly contested games.
What to Expect in the New Season
As the Ranji Trophy begins with 19 matches across different grounds on October 11, these new rules will reshape how teams approach both batting and bowling. The introduction of stricter penalties and more regulated gameplay shows BCCI’s commitment to ensuring fair competition and upholding the spirit of the game.
