ICC give go-ahead to Covid-19 replacements for Test matches

In line with rules for concussion replacements, it will be for the match referee to approve the nearest like-for-like replacement. The regulation for substitutes, however, will not be applicable in ODIs and T20Is

Covid-19 replacements will be permitted in Test cricket, it has been confirmed by the ICC.

It is one of several interim alterations to the playing regulations made by the global governing body in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

The changes, which also include the ratification of the banning of saliva use on the ball, was made by the ICC chief executives’ committee following recommendations made by the cricket committee, which is led by Anil Kumble and attended by other high-profile former players.

Teams will be allowed to replace players displaying symptoms of Covid-19 during a Test match. In line with concussion replacements, it will be for the match referee to approve the nearest like-for-like replacement. The regulation for substitutes, however, will not be applicable in ODIs and T20Is. 

As has been suggested for some time in the crisis, players will not be permitted to use saliva to shine the ball. If this regulation is broken, the umpires "will manage the situation with some leniency during an initial period of adjustment", but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving a warning.

Teams can be handed up to two warnings per innings, though repeated breaches of the rule will incur a five-run penalty. Whenever saliva is applied, the umpires will clean the ball before play recommences.

It has also been confirmed that temporarily the requirement to appoint match officials from neutral nations will be removed in order to deal with the logistical challenges associated with international tracvel.

The ICC will be able to appoint locally- based match officials from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Officials and the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Officials.

In keeping with that move, teams will also be given an additional review in each innings, given the possibility of less experienced umpires in charge of games. Sides will now get three per Test innings, as well as two in white-ball formats.

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