ICC ODI & T20 Rule Changes

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/cricket/33295761

Just read this interesting piece on the BBC which highlights the key changes which come into play from July 5th onwards. I have to say most the changes seem positive ones that will make the game more exciting, but some are a little confusing.

1. Five rather than four fielders will be allowed outside the 30-yard circle between the 41st and 50th over

This seems a good change. I feel ODI's are becoming too "batting heavy" somewhat, and the recent series of Eng v NZ only went to highlight that. Athers and Botham were saying there needs to be more to give the bowlers more encouragement/protection on flat wickets. I'm a firm believer the best one dayers are where there is a good contest between bat and ball so gives the bowlers more chance of taking wickets if they have the oppurtunity to put another catcher on the boundary.

2. All no balls will result in a free hit under changes to one-day international and Twenty20 playing conditions

Seems the best change of the lot, and one that had completely baffled me up until now. Why on earth has overstepping been the only reason for a free hit? Surely a 90mph fast bowler sending down a beamer or waste high full toss is a much better reason to warrant one? Common sense has prevailed here. Also free hits are great entertainment, so why not.


3. Under ICC changes from 5 July, no batting powerplays will be permitted between the 15th and 40th overs in ODI

This was one that confused me because I remember a couple years(?) back the batting team was allowed to take the batting powerplay whenever they wanted, and more often this would be taken in overs 40-50. They then changed the rules to say they must be before the 35th over to stop that happening, now they are saying they must be taken in those overs?

Seems rather bizarre to me. I think this is going somewhat against the modern style of ODI cricket we have seen from the likes of Aus, NZ, SA and even England recently. It seems to encourage just keeping lots of wickets in hand until the final overs and it's advantage to the batsman again. Personally I am against this, the top players find the magnificent shots the fans love to see when there are tricky fields in the final overs. Not good in my opinion, interesting to hear your views on this anyway.

4. Meanwhile, the ICC has suspended the United States Cricket Association (USACA) with immediate effect.

I couldn't give a fúck to be honest, the yanks should stick to rounders or whatever they call it.


How do you guys feel about the changes? Cheers for reading