The T20 World Cup 2024 is just days away, starting on June 2. This mega event, which began in 2007, is now entering its 9th edition. Over the past eight editions, the ICC has introduced various new regulations to the format. This year, a significant new rule is the Stop Clock Rule.
The Stop Clock Rule is designed to ensure teams complete their overs within the allotted time. After a successful trial, the ICC has decided to implement this rule in the T20 World Cup, aiming to make the white-ball format more efficient.
What is the Stop Clock Rule?
According to this rule, teams have 60 seconds to start the next over after the previous one ends. The third umpire monitors this rule, and if the bowling team fails to start the over within the given time, the on-field umpire issues two warnings. Upon the third warning, a five-run penalty is imposed, which adds to the batting team's score.
Trial Run in December 2023
The ICC implemented this rule in white-ball formats starting from December 2023. The rule reportedly saves 20 minutes of match time, which led to its adoption for the T20 World Cup.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are specific situations where this rule does not apply. The third umpire decides whether to enforce the rule or not. New batsmen coming to the crease, official drinks breaks, and injuries to batsmen or fielders are situations where the Stop Clock Rule is exempted.
