Cricket News

ICC’s New Rules Explained – Soft Signal, Free-Hit Rule, and Mandatory Helmets

by
Zainab Shafiq
May 15, 2023

Table of Contents

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has recently introduced a set of new rules that are set to bring significant changes to the game. These rules, aimed at improving decision-making, player safety, and maintaining the spirit of the sport, have sparked a lot of interest and discussion among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

In this article, we will delve into the details of three key rule amendments: the removal of the soft signal, modifications to the free-hit rule, and the implementation of mandatory helmets in specific situations.

Understanding the Soft Signal Rule:

The soft signal rule has long been a point of contention in cricket, with debates arising over its accuracy and reliability. In the past, when the on-field umpires referred a potential catch to the TV umpire, they would provide a soft signal indicating their initial perception of whether the catch was taken cleanly or not.

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However, the ICC has now decided to do away with this system, and on-field umpires will consult with the TV umpire before making a decision on a potential catch. This change aims to eliminate any potential confusion or bias that may have arisen from the soft signal, allowing for a fairer and more accurate decision-making process.

ICC’s New Rules Explained – What’s the Different in Past Rules?

Soft Signal:

Past Rule: When the on-field umpires referred a potential catch to the TV umpire, they would give a soft signal indicating their initial judgment on whether the catch was taken cleanly or not.
New Rule: The soft signal has been removed. Now, the on-field umpires will consult with the TV umpire before making a decision on a potential catch.

Mandatory Helmets:

Past Rule: The use of helmets was not compulsory in specific positions.
New Rule: Helmets are now mandatory in certain high-risk positions, such as when batters are facing fast bowlers, when wicketkeepers are standing up to the stumps, and when fielders are close to the batter in front of the wicket.

Free Hit Rule:

Past Rule: Runs scored off a Free Hit would not count if the ball hit the stumps without hitting the batter.
New Rule: Any runs scored off a Free Hit, including if the ball hits the stumps, will count as runs scored. This means that batters can be bowled off a Free Hit and still attempt to score runs.