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[Saba Sports News] The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a ‘stop clock’ rule in international cricket starting December 11 to address slow over-rates. This rule, under the new men’s playing conditions, involves an electronic clock monitoring the time taken by the bowling team to begin a new over, helping enforce penalties for time wasting.
This digital clock, trialed from December 2023 to April 2024 in 59 matches, made its debut during the England vs West Indies T20I on December 12. As per the ICC’s clause 41.9 in the revised Men’s ODI and T20I playing conditions, this clock aims to prevent fielding side delays.
“Under clause 41.9 of the revised Men’s ODI and T20I playing conditions, which deals with provisions against time wasting by the fielding side, the clock has been added under sub-clause 41.9.4,” the ICC had said in a statement.
The rule stipulates a 60-second limit for the bowling side to start a new over, displayed on the big screen. Teams receive two warnings for delays; a third infraction results in a five-run penalty. The third umpire initiates the clock after the last ball of the previous over or any review completion.
In cases where the fielding team is timely but the batting side delays, umpires will assess if the batting team’s time-wasting clause applies. Exceptions to the clock rule include situations like a new batter arriving, drink intervals, umpire-approved player treatment, and uncontrollable events affecting the fielding team.