WTC Final will mark a milestone in the history of the game. For the first time ever, the five-day game will end in the ‘tournament’ format. India and New Zealand will be the finalists of the competition. In this article, we take a look at a few changes in the rules for the WTC final.
ICC has changed some rules for the summit clash so that Test cricket happens at its highest level. A few of these rules could as well change the outcome of the game. Both teams are strong enough to lift the trophy and hence, the fans can expect a tightly contested fixture.
1) Height Margin For LBW Referrals
In recent months, we have seen plenty of discussion regarding LBW referrals and the influence of ‘Umpire’s Call’ in these decisions. To avoid any further issues, especially in the WTC final, the council has said that the height margin of the Wicket Zone will be lifted to the top of the stumps to ensure the same Umpire’s Call margin around the stumps for both height and width. This could turn to be a crucial change as one timely wicket could alter the direction of the encounter.
2) Short Runs On The Field
The changes, which was already implemented in ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, will make their way in the rules of the WTC final. If the on-field umpire calls a short run, the third-umpire will first check it upstairs. He will then inform the on-field umpire if his decision is correct before the next delivery is bowled. The WTC final could be a close game, and this rule could come into the picture if that happens.
3) Consultation With Umpires Before LBW Referral
If the fielding captain or the batsman has an LBW decision gone against him, he could take consultation from the umpire if a genuine attempt was made to play the ball. Again, just like the short runs, this rule could become a vital element in the WTC Final. However, this will also add tremendous pressure on the decision-makers in the field.
4) Reserve Day And Joint Winners
ICC has also announced that a reserve day would be allocated for the game. This would happen if the stipulated amount of overs are not completed within five days. Especially with the rain forecast around, it would not be a surprise if this rule comes into the picture. On the other hand, if the game ends in a draw, both India and New Zealand will be the joint-winners of the event. That said, with both teams having an excellent bowling line-up, it may not be a surprise if the game ends before five days.
5) Follow-On Rule
Usually, if the play is washed out on the first and the second days, the follow-on rules would change. However, this time around, ICC has mentioned that the follow-on rules for the WTC final would stay even if the first and the second days are washed out. This is because, the final has a reserve day, which the normal games do not have. With the rains likely to have an impact, this rule could also play a significant role in the match.
