BCCI Amends Rules for Domestic Cricket Regarding Penalty Runs: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly made significant changes to domestic cricket rules, specifically concerning penalty runs. Amendments have been communicated to state cricket associations via an official note.
Previously, if a batting team inadvertently touched fielding equipment while attempting to play a ball, they would be awarded penalty runs. However, this practice will no longer be allowed. Such incidents will now be considered legal, meaning no penalty runs will be given to the opposing team for accidental interference.
The new rules state that if a ball inadvertently touches any equipment or objects while escaping from a fielder, it will not be deemed an illegal delivery. This applies even if the ball strikes wicketkeeping gloves or a fielder’s cap, ensuring that the ball remains in play. The BCCI has emphasized that the ball is still considered in the game, and any resulting wicket will be appropriately recorded.
These rule changes are set to be implemented in future domestic matches, aiming to streamline gameplay and enhance the fairness of cricket. The board’s decision reflects its ongoing efforts to modernize the game and address any ambiguities in the rules that could affect match outcomes.
