The International Cricket Council (ICC) is considering significant changes to One Day International (ODI) cricket to rebalance the contest between bat and ball. The ICC Cricket Committee, chaired by former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, has recommended removing the two new-ball rule in 50-over matches—a proposal that could fundamentally reshape the dynamics of the format.

The committee has suggested returning to the use of a single white Kookaburra ball in ODIs, a recommendation to be discussed by the ICC Board of Directors on Sunday in Harare.

The two-ball rule, implemented over a decade ago, allows bowlers to use a fresh ball from each end, keeping the ball hard for longer. This makes batting easier, especially with the restriction of four fielders outside the 30-yard circle for most of the innings.

However, this rule has faced heavy criticism for eliminating the reverse swing, a crucial aspect for fast bowlers, as the two new balls don't get worn enough to facilitate reverse swing. The harder, newer balls also pose challenges for spinners, reducing their ability to grip and turn the ball effectively.

Legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar has repeatedly voiced concerns that the two-ball rule tilts the game’s balance unfairly in favor of the batters.

The committee's recommendation involves phasing out the second new ball in ODIs. Under the proposal, only one ball would be used after the 25-over mark, though bowling teams could begin the innings with two fresh balls. They would then have the option to select which of the two balls to continue with, aiming to restore the possibility of reverse swing without entirely discarding the two-ball system.

Historically, umpires have been required to replace the white ball midway through the innings, as it often became discolored or misshapen by the 35th over. With the proposed changes, the ball would likely last 37 to 38 overs by the time the innings concludes, compared to the current rule where each ball is used for only 25 overs since two balls are operated simultaneously from each end.

These suggestions are expected to be discussed further during the ICC sessions in Zimbabwe.

In addition to the ODI changes, the ICC is considering introducing a timed clock for Test matches, limiting teams to 60 seconds between overs and targeting the completion of 90 overs per day. This concept is inspired by the over-rate penalty rules in T20 cricket.

Another potential change involves the format of the U19 Men's World Cup. The ICC might reduce the tournament’s matches from 50 overs to T20s, aiming to align the competition with the growing prominence of franchise T20 leagues and prepare young players for the faster pace of the modern game.

(Cricbuzz/Times of India inputs)