ICC Changes Powerplay Rules for Shortened Men’s T20Is - ‘Nearest Ball, Not Nearest Over’ Applies Now

ICC changes powerplay rules for men’s T20 Internationals, making shortened matches more balanced. Starting July 2025, the powerplay length in reduced-over games will now be set to the nearest ball, not the nearest over. 

This tweak, approved by the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee, keeps the powerplay close to 30% of the innings. For example, an 8-over match now gets 2.2 overs of powerplay. Fans are excited, saying this makes rain-affected games fairer for both batters and bowlers.

What’s the New Rule?

ICC changes powerplay rules to make T20Is fairer when matches are cut short. From July 2025, powerplay overs will be rounded to the nearest ball, not over. In a full 20-over game, the first six overs are powerplay with only two fielders outside the 30-yard circle. 

For an 8-over match, it’s now 2.2 overs (13 balls), not 3. ESPNcricinfo says this keeps the powerplay at about 30% of the game. 

Why the Change Matters

ICC changes powerplay rules because the old way wasn’t balanced. Rounding to the nearest over, like three overs for a 9-over game, gave too much powerplay time (33%). Now, a 9-over match gets 2.4 overs (14 balls), closer to 30%. 

ICC notes this matches England’s T20 Blast, where mid-over powerplay ends work fine.

How It Works in Matches

ICC changes powerplay rules with a clear table. A 5-over game gets 1.3 overs of powerplay, six overs get 1.5, and 10 overs get 3. For a 15-over match, it’s 4.3 overs. 

ESPNcricinfo explains that umpires signal the end after a set number of balls, like after two balls in the third over for an 8-over game. This lets three more fielders move out. 

Other Big ICC Updates

ICC changes powerplay rules alongside other tweaks. Test matches now use a stop clock to speed up play, giving teams 60 seconds to start a new over. 

Saliva on the ball is still banned, but umpires won’t always change it unless it’s too wet or shiny. ICC says teams must name concussion substitutes before matches.