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Day-night Test matches have become a regular feature in international cricket. During a recent internal technical meeting, the International Cricket Council discussed the possibility of introducing a new safety regulation - the "Night-Time Fourth Substitute Rule", aimed at reducing injury risks for players competing under high-intensity conditions late at night. If approved, this could become one of the most significant Test cricket regulations introduced in the past decade.
In recent years, the number of Pink-Ball Tests has increased, often extending deep into the night. Fast bowlers, in particular, have been exposed to long periods of high-intensity workload under floodlights, raising the likelihood of fatigue-related injuries. Several medical teams have submitted assessments to the ICC, urging stronger safety measures to protect players.
According to industry sources, the ICC's technical committee has officially placed the Night-Time Substitute Rule on the discussion agenda and is currently evaluating the operational details.
Based on the draft under review, the proposal includes the following main points:
Applicable only to Day-Night (Pink-Ball) Test matches
The extra substitute can be activated after 8:30 PM local time
The substitute may be used when a player suffers visible fatigue-related injury, muscle tightness, cramps, or similar physical discomfort
Teams will be allowed to introduce one additional "fourth substitute player"
However, the substitute would be subject to clear restrictions. He cannot bat and cannot become a new opener, but he can:
Participate in fielding
Act as a replacement wicketkeeper
Deliver part of the bowling workload
The intention is to reduce excessive late-night physical strain—especially on fast bowlers—while maintaining the core competitive balance of Test cricket.
Although the rule has not yet been formally proposed, it has already sparked lively debate across the cricket world.
Supporters argue:
Bowling under lights is more physically demanding, making additional protection for pacers necessary
Modern Test cricket has become faster and more physically taxing, requiring upgraded safety measures
A fourth substitute who cannot bat will not affect the match's competitive fairness
Some coaches note that compared with ODI and T20 formats, Test players endure far greater cumulative workloads, making an extra substitute both reasonable and essential.
Opponents worry:
Teams might exploit the rule by manufacturing "tactical injuries"
Test cricket's identity lies in endurance, resilience, and mental toughness, which they fear could be diluted
A substitute bowler could potentially influence the match outcome, upsetting the traditional balance
Traditionalists argue that too many modern adjustments could erode the essence of Test cricket.
Reports suggest that if the committee approves the concept during the evaluation period, the ICC may choose a 2026 World Test Championship (WTC) Day-Night match as the first testing ground. This would allow assessment of its impact on match flow, safety levels, and overall spectator experience.
An ICC spokesperson responded cautiously, stating:
"Player welfare remains a top priority for the ICC, and the committee continues to explore all practical options that support the game's development."
If eventually implemented, the rule may lead to significant long-term effects:
Enhanced safety in night Test matches
Reduced physical burden on fast bowlers and extended career longevity
More strategic and scientific workload management
Further modernization and professionalization of the Test format
Regardless of the final decision, this initiative shows that the ICC is actively re-evaluating the traditions of Test cricket, seeking a balance between preserving its essence and ensuring player safety in a modern sporting environment.
With discussions gaining momentum, this potential regulation is expected to remain one of the most closely watched topics in the cricket world in the coming months.
