The much-anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final between Australia and South Africa will kick off on June 11 at Lord's Cricket Ground.

Just ahead of this marquee clash, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced new cricket rules aimed at making the game more exciting and strategically balanced.

These rules will be applicable in both Test and ODI formats, including major updates regarding concussion substitutes and the use of the ball in ODIs.

When Will New Rules Come Into Effect?

According to a report by Cricbuzz, the new rules will be implemented starting from the first Test match of the new WTC cycle, which begins on June 17 between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle.

Stricter Concussion Substitute Protocol

Teams must now name five substitute players ahead of every match.

These substitutes must cover specific roles:

One wicketkeeper

One batter

One fast bowler

One spinner

One all-rounder

In case any substitute gets injured, the match referee can approve a replacement under the current like-for-like policy, depending on the situation.

New ODI Ball Rule

Two new balls will be used from overs 1 to 34 - one from each end. Before the start of over 35, the fielding team will choose one of the two balls to use for the remainder of the innings from both ends.

This selected ball will continue unless it becomes unfit for play.

In case the innings is reduced to 25 overs or fewer before it begins, each team will get only one new ball for their innings.

What the ICC Said

'There will be two new balls from overs 1 to 34. Before the 35th over, the fielding team will select one of those to continue with until the end of the innings. If the match is reduced to 25 overs or less before the start, then each side will be provided just one new ball.'