ICC T20I Playing Conditions
| Aspect | Playing Condition |
|---|---|
| Number of Players | Each team consists of eleven players. |
| Overs per Innings | Each team is allowed to bowl a maximum of 20 overs in an innings. |
| Powerplay Phases | The batting team faces the first six overs as the Powerplay, during which fielding restrictions apply. |
| Fielding Restrictions | In the Powerplay, only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle, promoting aggressive batting. |
| Free Hits | A no-ball due to overstepping allows the following delivery to be a “free hit,” where the batsman cannot be dismissed except by a run-out. |
| Decision Review System (DRS) | Each team gets one or two unsuccessful reviews per innings for LBW, caught behind, and ball-hitting decisions, depending on the version of DRS used. |
| One Bouncer per Over | Bowlers are allowed to deliver only one bouncer (above shoulder height) per over to the batsman. |
| Wide and No-Ball Rules | Umpires call wide if the ball is too far from the batsman and no-ball for illegal deliveries like overstepping. |
| Light and Bad Weather | Play can be stopped in case of bad light or adverse weather conditions, with the possibility of shortened matches. |
| Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) Method | In rain-affected matches, the DLS method is used to calculate target scores, ensuring fairness in the match result. |
| Interval and Breaks | Scheduled breaks for innings change and drinks intervals allow players to rest and regroup during the match. |
| Bowling Action Assessment | Bowlers with suspect actions may undergo testing to ensure their bowling actions are within the ICC regulations. |
Explanation:
The ICC T20I playing conditions dictate the rules and guidelines for T20 International cricket matches, known for their fast-paced and exciting nature. As shown in the table, each team comprises eleven players, and a maximum of 20 overs are allowed per inning for each team.
The Powerplay phases, comprising the first six overs of the batting team’s innings, impose fielding restrictions, with only two fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle. This encourages aggressive batting at the start of the innings.
A no-ball due to overstepping grants the following delivery a “free hit,” where the batsman cannot be dismissed except by a run-out, rewarding the batting side for the bowler’s error.
The Decision Review System (DRS) allows each team one or two unsuccessful reviews per innings for LBW, caught behind, and ball-hitting decisions, depending on the version of DRS used. This technology aims to reduce umpiring errors and ensure fair decision-making during the match.
Bowlers are allowed to deliver only one bouncer (above shoulder height) per over to the batsman, maintaining a balance between bat and ball and promoting an exciting contest.
Umpires call “wide” if the ball is too far from the batsman, and “no-ball” for illegal deliveries like overstepping the crease, enforcing bowling discipline and penalizing infringements.
In case of bad light or adverse weather conditions, play can be stopped, and matches may be shortened or affected by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, which calculates target scores to ensure a fair match result despite interruptions.
Scheduled breaks for innings change and drinks intervals allow players to rest and regroup during the match, enhancing the overall experience of the game.
Bowlers with suspect actions may undergo testing to ensure their bowling actions comply with ICC regulations, promoting fair play and adherence to the rules.
The ICC T20I playing conditions contribute to the thrill and entertainment of T20 cricket, with high-intensity contests and quick turnarounds, making it a beloved format for players and fans worldwide.