ICC Mandates Stop-Clocks in Limited-Overs International Matches

Dubai:  The International Cricket Council (ICC) has decided to make the use of stop-clocks mandatory. The decision, which was made during the ICC’s annual Board meetings on Friday, March 15, is set to come into effect from June 2024, coinciding with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 to be held in the West Indies and the USA.

The implementation of the stop-clock comes after a successful trial period introduced by the ICC in December 2023 for men’s limited-overs international matches. Originally slated to conclude in April 2024, the trial has yielded promising results, notably in the timely completion of matches. Reports presented to the Chief Executives’ Committee (CEC) showcased a saving of approximately 20 minutes per One Day International (ODI) match.

Under the stop-clock rule trialed in men’s white-ball cricket, the fielding team is required to commence a new over within 60 seconds of the completion of the preceding over. An electronic clock, counting down from 60 to zero, will be prominently displayed on the ground, with the responsibility of initiating the clock resting on the third umpire.

Failure on the part of the fielding side to initiate the first ball of their next over within the stipulated 60 seconds will result in two warnings. Subsequent breaches will incur a five-run penalty per incident.

Exceptions to the stop-clock rule include scenarios such as the arrival of a new batsman between overs, scheduled drinks intervals, on-field treatment of injuries to players, and time lost due to circumstances beyond the fielding side’s control.

Commenting on the decision, ICC Chair Greg Barclay stated, “The Board confirmed the stop clock will become a permanent fixture in all ODIs and T20Is.”

Acknowledging the positive impact of the stop-clock trial on the flow of the game, the CEC approved its introduction as a mandatory playing condition in all men’s ODI and T20I matches between Full Members starting from June 1, 2024, including the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

The decision is anticipated to streamline match proceedings, ensuring a more captivating and time-efficient experience for players and fans alike in the realm of limited-overs international cricket.