Powerplay, two new balls: Ashwin questions these rules in ODIs
What's the story
Ravichandran Ashwin, the former Indian spinner, has raised concerns over rules of ODI cricket.
He particularly questioned the use of two new balls per innings and the five-fielders-inside-the-circle rule.
In his latest YouTube episode of 'Ash Ki Baat,' Ashwin proposed that these rules were introduced to combat India's historical dominance in spin bowling.
Here are further details.
Rule revision
Ashwin urges ICC to reconsider ODI rules
Ashwin called on the ICC to revisit these rules before the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.
He feels that the existing rules have diminished the battle between bat and ball, resulting in a one-dimensional approach to the game.
"I think in many ways that rule was meant to nullify India's spin domination," Ashwin said on his YouTube show.
Rule impact
Ashwin highlights impact of two-new-balls rule on bowlers
Ashwin emphasized how the two-new-balls rule has heavily tilted in favor of batters, restricting the bowlers' impact—especially spinners.
He observed that with every ball being used for just 25 overs, the art of reverse swing has faded away.
This development has made death-overs bowling predictable and ineffective.
"I think that is impacting the game massively because reverse swing is gone from the game now," Ashwin said.
Rule criticism
Ashwin criticizes this powerplay rule
The former cricketer also slammed the five-fielders-inside-the-circle rule, saying it has compelled captains to go for defensive field placements.
The rule, he argues, tips the balance in favor of batting-heavy teams and takes away the depth this format once had.
Ashwin voiced his concerns about ODI cricket's long-term viability amid the growing popularity of T20 leagues across the globe.
Proposal
Ashwin proposes use of red ball in ODIs
Ashwin suggested going back to the red ball instead of the white one in ODIs.
He feels that this change could keep the 50-over format relevant.
"There used to be a time where one-day used to be play with the red ball," he said, stressing on his suggestion for this particular format of cricket.