How ODI rules have changed since the 1992 World Cup

Balls used

Has the new ball change actually hurt the bowlers more?

Previously, red balls were used even in ODI cricket as the players donned all whites. The introduction of coloured clothing and floodlights made it mandatory to switch to white balls as it became difficult to spot the red ball.

But the white ball underwent wear and tear besides becoming discoloured which made it difficult to spot the ball in the later stages. Therefore, the ball was usually changed after the 34th over when a used ball which was in a better condition was introduced.

The wear and tear on the ball or even the used ball allowed the faster bowlers to extract reverse swing in the later stages of the match. But this has become impossible as in 2011 a new rule was introduced which mandating using two new balls from either end from the beginning.

This usually keeps the balls hard and new now, allowing batsmen to play strokes, and making life more difficult for the bowlers.