KARACHI – The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved several changes to the playing conditions for men’s T20 Internationals, including a significant amendment to how the Powerplay period is calculated in shortened matches.
According to Cricinfo, under the revised rule, effective from July 2025, the Powerplay duration in reduced-over matches will now be determined based on the nearest ball rather than the nearest over — a departure from the previous standard. This change aims to create more balanced gameplay, especially in rain-affected or shortened matches.
Under current laws, a standard 20-over innings includes a 6-over Powerplay during which only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. However, in reduced matches, this fixed approach sometimes resulted in uneven fielding advantages.
Under the new rule, if an innings is shortened to 8 overs, the Powerplay will last 2.2 overs (13 balls). Similarly, in a 9-over innings, the Powerplay will extend to 2.4 overs (14 balls). This adjustment ensures the Powerplay proportion remains close to the original 30% of the innings, preserving fairness and competitive balance.
The ICC explained that this new approach is not unfamiliar or complex. In fact, the system has already been successfully implemented for years in England’s domestic T20 Blast tournament. The council noted, “Ending a Powerplay mid-over is not a challenge for players or umpires.”
The proposal has been approved by the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee and will now serve as the preferred method for determining Powerplay duration in all future shortened T20 Internationals.
To clarify further, the ICC offered an example: “If an innings is reduced to 8 overs, the umpire will signal the end of the Powerplay after the second ball of the third over, allowing three additional fielders to move outside the 30-yard circle.”
The change has been welcomed as a step toward enhancing fairness and transparency in the shortest format of international cricket.
