Cricket is not just a sport—it’s a tradition loved by billions. But like every game, it must adapt with time. Since the year 2000, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has made dozens of rule changes to keep cricket fair, entertaining, and safe.
From the introduction of Powerplays in ODIs, to the game-changing Decision Review System (DRS), and even new safety measures like concussion substitutes, cricket today looks very different from the game played in the 1990s.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through all the ICC rule changes from 2000 to 2025, explain why they were introduced, and highlight what’s coming next.
Why Does ICC Keep Changing Cricket Rules?
Cricket’s laws are managed by the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club), while the ICC oversees playing conditions at the international level. Over time, rule updates became necessary due to:
- Fairness: To balance bat and ball.
- Entertainment: To make ODIs and T20Is exciting for fans.
- Technology: To use tools like Hawk-Eye, Snicko, and LED stumps.
- Safety: To prevent injuries, especially after incidents like Philip Hughes’ tragic death in 2014.
- Global Standardization: So rules remain consistent across formats and countries.
👉 Official ICC Playing Conditions
Major ICC Rule Changes (2000–2025)
1. Fielding Restrictions and Powerplays
ODIs saw the biggest shift in 2005 when Powerplays were introduced.
- 2005: Powerplays replaced old fielding restrictions. First 10 overs mandatory, plus two 5-over blocks chosen by the bowling side.
- 2008: Batting side got one Powerplay, giving them more control.
- 2011–2012: Restrictions tightened—no Powerplays in overs 11–15 or 41–50. Later reduced to only 2 blocks: 1–10 and 11–40.
- 2015: The batting Powerplay was scrapped. Final rule:
- Overs 1–10 → Max 2 fielders outside circle
- Overs 11–40 → Max 4 fielders outside
- Overs 41–50 → Max 5 fielders outside
- 2025: A big change to ODI balls—teams use 2 balls till the 34th over, then continue with just one ball till the end. This helps bowlers regain reverse swing.
👉 ESPNcricinfo on ODI Powerplay evolution
In T20Is, the first 6 overs remain the powerplay. Since 2025, in rain-shortened matches, powerplays are calculated ball-by-ball (e.g., 8-over game = 2.2 overs of Powerplay).
2. Decision Review System (DRS)
DRS is one of the most revolutionary cricket updates.
- 2008–2009: Tested in Tests, officially launched in 2009 (NZ vs Pakistan).
- 2011: Expanded to ODIs.
- 2013: UltraEdge (Snicko upgrade) introduced for fine edge detection.
- 2016: LBW margins adjusted, making “umpire’s call” stricter.
- 2017: Introduced in ICC T20 tournaments.
- 2025: New twist: If a caught-behind review is overturned, but the next appeal is LBW, umpire’s call still results in OUT.
👉 How DRS changed cricket – ESPNcricinfo
3. Over-Rate and Bowling Rules
Slow over-rates have frustrated fans for decades. ICC tackled this with fines and points deductions.
- Pre-2019: Captains risked suspension for slow rates.
- 2019: Instead of bans, ICC started deducting World Test Championship points and fining all players equally.
- 2025: Tests now feature a 60-second stop-clock. Fielding sides have 60 seconds to start the next over—2 warnings allowed, then a 5-run penalty on the third.
Other bowling rules:
- 2011: ODIs introduced two new balls (one from each end).
- 2015: Free hits applied to all no-balls (not just front-foot).
- 2025: After 34 overs, ODIs continue with only one ball.
4. Player Safety and Substitutes
Player safety became a serious focus in the 2010s.
- 2019: Concussion substitutes approved across all formats.
- 2025: Teams must nominate five types of subs (batter, bowler, keeper, spinner, all-rounder) before matches. Concussed players must rest at least 7 days.
- 2025 Trials: ICC will test allowing subs for any serious injury in first-class cricket.
👉 Concussion substitute rule explained
5. Conduct, Spirit of the Game, and Fair Play
Cricket’s gentlemanly spirit has always been central, but ICC updated rules to reflect modern times:
- 2007: Free hit introduced for front-foot no-balls.
- 2020: Saliva ban made permanent. Only sweat allowed to shine the ball.
- 2022: Mankad run-out reclassified as a normal dismissal (no stigma).
- 2025: Short-run penalties now let the fielding side decide which batter faces the next ball.
Future ICC Rule Proposals
Looking ahead, the ICC is testing:
- Wide-Ball Law (Trial in 2025): Wide balls judged from batter’s original stance, not movement.
- Full Substitutes: Beyond concussions, serious injuries may allow complete replacements.
- Automated No-Ball Tech: Sensors and AI under trial to automatically call front-foot no-balls.
FAQs on ICC Rule Changes
Q1. Why does ICC change rules so often?
To keep cricket fair, safe, and entertaining while adapting to new technology.
Q2. When was DRS introduced?
Officially in 2009 Tests, then 2011 ODIs, and later in T20Is.
Q3. Is Mankad legal now?
Yes. Since 2022, it’s a standard run-out.
Q4. What is the newest rule in 2025?
ODIs use one ball after 34 overs, and Tests now have a 60-second stop-clock for overs.
Q5. Why did ICC ban saliva?
For health reasons during COVID-19, and the ban is now permanent.
Conclusion
From Powerplays and DRS to concussion subs and saliva bans, cricket between 2000–2025 has evolved more than in any other era. These rules not only make the sport fairer and more balanced but also protect players and add excitement for fans.
With new trials like wide-ball changes and substitutes for injuries, the next decade promises even more innovation.
👉 What’s your take? Do these ICC rule changes make cricket better—or too complicated? Share your thoughts below!
