The International Cricket Council (ICC) is contemplating major changes to playing conditions across formats, including reduced innings breaks in T20Is, expanded on-field access for head coaches, and the potential use of different-coloured balls during Test matches.

The proposals are expected to be discussed for approval at the ICC Board meeting in Ahmedabad on May 30, Cricbuzz reported.

According to the report, the apex body is also exploring the possibility of switching from a red ball to a pink ball during a conventional Test match in case of weather interruptions that force play to continue under lights.

The proposed switch would require mutual consent from both teams before the start of a series. Operational rules for managing a mid-match ball transition are still being worked out.

One of the key proposals under discussion is permitting head coaches to enter the field during drinks breaks, particularly in the ODI format. At present, only substitute players are allowed to bring drinks onto the field.

If approved, head coaches could enter the playing area to interact with batters and bowlers during the scheduled drinks intervals. This would align ODI regulations more closely with T20Is, where coaching staff are already allowed to consult with players during tactical timeouts.

The ICC is also evaluating proposals to reduce the innings break in T20 Internationals from 20 minutes to 15 minutes. The goal of this amendment is to maintain the format's fast-paced nature and keep the overall duration of matches as short as possible.

Among other changes, the global body is considering a proposal to grant on-field umpires direct access to Hawk-Eye data during matches, aimed at strengthening the real-time detection of potentially illegal bowling actions.

The ICC Cricket Committee, headed by Sourav Ganguly, discussed these proposed amendments during a virtual meeting on Thursday (May 21). If the ICC board approves these proposals on May 30, the new playing conditions could come into effect from October 1.