ODI Format to See Shift as ICC Reverts to Single-Ball System

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed a series of significant updates to its Playing Conditions, set to take effect from June 2025. Among the most notable changes is the reversion to a single ball format in One Day Internationals (ODIs), marking a major shift in how the 50-over format will be played.

According to a communication sent to member boards, the revised Playing Conditions will be implemented in Test cricket from June and in white-ball internationals from July.

Return to One Ball in ODIs

A major alteration comes in the form of a phased return to the single-ball rule in ODIs. Currently, two new balls are used—one from each end—for the entire innings. Under the new rule:

• Two new balls will be used from overs 1 to 34.
• Before the 35th over begins, the fielding side will choose one of those balls to complete the innings (overs 35–50), using it from both ends.
• For matches reduced to 25 overs or less before the start, each team will use only one new ball for the innings.

The ball not selected for the final 16 overs will be placed in the replacement ball pool, and standard replacement rules will continue to apply.

Concussion Rule Overhaul

The ICC has also introduced clearer concussion substitution protocols. Teams must now name five concussion replacement players—specifically: one batter, one wicketkeeper, one seam bowler, one spinner, and one all-rounder—before a match begins.

In rare cases where a concussion substitute also suffers a concussion, the match referee has the authority to approve an external replacement, adhering to the existing like-for-like criteria.

Other Rule Updates

While specific details on changes to boundary line catches and DRS protocols are pending, the ICC has assured that further clarification will be issued in due course.

Importantly, the current playing conditions will remain in force for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s, starting June 11. The new rules will be rolled out in the WTC’s next cycle, beginning with the Sri Lanka-Bangladesh Test series in Galle on June 17.

White-ball changes will also begin with the Sri Lanka-Bangladesh ODI series on July 2 and T20Is from July 10 in Colombo.

While initial discussions hinted at a working group evaluation, the ICC confirmed that the Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) has already approved the changes. However, a separate working group—yet to be established—will soon examine the format for future Under-19 World Cups, considering T20, 50-over, or hybrid options. This group is expected to be formed ahead of the ICC Annual Conference in Singapore from July 17–20.