The
These adjustments, which will remain in effect through the conclusion of the tournament on December 20, are designed to streamline officiating and improve the overall pace of play. By standardizing how wide deliveries are judged and ensuring both teams adhere to strict timing protocols, organizers aim to provide a more consistent experience for players and spectators alike.
New Wide Ball Protocols and Timing Regulations
The implementation of the batter zone serves as a primary update to the league's wide-ball policy. Under these new guidelines, a delivery will be adjudicated as a wide if the ball passes entirely outside the designated zone between the off-side and leg-side lines at the popping crease. Furthermore, any delivery that passes above the standing batter's head height will also be ruled a wide. This rule remains in effect even if a batter shifts their position across the crease, provided they do not make contact with the ball. However, the league has provided an exception for reverse sweeps and switch hits, where the traditional off-side wide lines will continue to be utilized.
In addition to the wide-ball changes, the 60-second stop clock—previously a requirement only for fielding teams—will now apply to the batting side as well. Both teams are now required to be prepared for the start of the next over within one minute of the previous one concluding. The regulation includes a system of two warnings per innings, with a penalty of five runs awarded to the opposition for any subsequent infractions. Certain scenarios, such as weather delays, injury treatments, strategic time-outs, and third-umpire reviews, are exempt from these timing requirements.
Squad Composition and Tournament Structure
The fifth edition of the
The tournament will feature six franchises competing over the course of the month-long schedule. With these updated regulations now confirmed, the league prepares to host a field of prominent international talent when the opening match commences in late November.
