Apart from the weak signal rule, helmets have been made mandatory for fielding positions with a high risk of injury and runs scored a free shot when the ball hits the stumps it will count as runs scored.
The ICC Chief Executives Committee ratified the recommendations of the men’s cricket committee headed by Sourav Ganguly which were also endorsed by the women’s cricket committee.
“The main changes to the conditions of the game will take effect from June 1 with the Proof of the Lord between England and Ireland,” the ICC said in a statement to the media.
The three main changes to the game conditions are:
Weak signal: Referees will no longer be required to give a weak signal while reporting decisions to the TV referees. The on-field referees will consult with the television referee before any decision is made.
Helmets: Helmet protection will be mandatory in international cricket for the following high injury risk positions: (I) when hitters face fast bowlers, (ii) when the wicket-keepers are standing up to the stumps, e (iii) when fielders are close to the batsman in front of the wicket.
Performs a free hit: All points scored on a free throw when the ball hits stumps will count as runs scored, to be consistent with all other points scored on a free throw.
Speaking about the changes, Ganguly said: “Weak signals have been discussed at previous cricket committee meetings over the last couple of years. The committee deliberated for a long time and concluded that weak signals were unnecessary and sometimes confusing as postponements of catches may seem inconclusive in replays”.
“We also discussed player safety, which is very important to us. The committee decided that it was better to make the wearing of helmets mandatory in certain positions to ensure the safety of the players,” Ganguly added.
