The ICC is exploring possible changes to the wide ball rule in limited overs cricket. Shaun Pollock, a member of ICC to cricket committee recently shared that discussions are ongoing to adjust the current rules to give players more clarity and fairness, especially with batsmen constantly moving around the crease.
Pollock, speaking on the sidelines of the SA20 league, said: “If a batter bounces (in) the last minute, it doesn't really work for me. I think a footballer, at the beginning of his competition, needs to know where he can shoot it.”
Pollock's thoughts on the current broad rule
Currently, the rule dictates that a wide must be called if the ball passes away from where it is struck at the time of delivery. This is based on their position in a normal kicking stance.
Pollock believes this puts bowlers at a disadvantage. “The current rule tends to suggest that if the batter moves to the point of delivery, the width will be called from there. I want a little change. How can a pitcher be expected to adjust his game plan at the last second? He needs to have a clear idea of where he can thrive,” Pollock said.
He added that the ICC is “working on something” to address the issue. “We have to give back to the bowlers a little bit,” he stressed.
Should there be DRS for Wides?
In recent years, the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Women's Premier League (WPL) have allowed players to review wide ball calls using the Decision Review System (DRS). While this has added a layer of scrutiny to arbitration awards, not everyone is in favor of it.
Simon Taufel, a former elite referee, has expressed his concerns about the use of technology to judge wide balls.
“I'm really conscious of turning the art of officiating into a science,” Taufel told ESPNcricinfo. “For everyone, we're potentially making marginal calls back to the third umpire. It's still a judgment call at the end of the day.”
Pollock backs South Africa's IPL stars for Champions Trophy 2025
Pollock also shared his thoughts on South AfricaChampions odds in the next Trophy, set to play Pakistan and Dubai. He believes South Africa's experienced IPL players can give the team an edge in subcontinental conditions.
“You have guys like Klaasen, Miller and de Kock who have spent so much time in those conditions. This experience will be crucial,” said Pollock.
South Africa reached the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup before losing to Australia. Pollock hopes familiarity with the conditions, thanks to the IPL, will help the team go further this time.
SA20: A boost for South African cricket
Pollock also spoke about the impact of the SA20 league, which is now in its third season.
“South African cricket needed this injection. There is no doubt about it. “The league has created incredible interest in the game,” said Pollock.
He highlighted fan engagement initiatives, such as the “Catch 2 Million” competition, which has added excitement to the tournament.
“It has gone from strength to strength. We are seeing packed stadiums and it is good to see people supporting cricket in South Africa again,” he added.
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