As the new domestic season in India kicked off with the Ranji Trophy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented several significant changes to the playing conditions.

Retired batters to be deemed out unless injured

One of the most notable changes is the new rule regarding retired batters. If a batter retires for any reason other than injury or illness, they will be considered dismissed immediately and will not be allowed to return to bat, even with the consent of the opposing captain. This rule applies to all BCCI domestic matches, including multi-day and limited-over contests.

Stricter rules on saliva and aborted runs

In terms of bowling, the BCCI has tightened restrictions on the use of saliva on the ball. If a team is found to have applied saliva to the ball, the ball must be changed immediately, and penalties may be imposed.

The BCCI has also revised the rule on aborting a run. Now, if batters decide to abort a run after crossing and a boundary results from an overthrow before they have re-crossed, only a boundary of four will be scored. This change aligns with the agreement reached during the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Also READ – Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Groups and squads of participating teams

Changes in the points allocation of CK Nayudu trophy

Regarding the CK Nayudu competition and points allocation, the BCCI has introduced new scenarios.

Scenario 1: If a team batting first is all out but receives penalty runs, they will earn additional batting points.
Scenario 2: If the penalty runs are awarded after the team has already completed their innings, they will not receive the extra batting point.

These changes are aimed at enhancing the fairness and competitiveness of domestic cricket in India. It remains to be seen how these new rules will impact the course of the 2024-25 season.

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