ICC Cricket Committee looking to give leeway to bowlers on wides: Shaun Pollock

South African cricket legend Shaun Pollock has revealed that the ICC Cricket Committee is deliberating on revising the wide-ball rule to offer bowlers more flexibility.

In Short

• ICC Cricket Committee considers easing wide rules for bowlers
• Batsmen's late movements cause unfair wide calls, says Pollock
• Shaun Pollock calls for rule adjustments to benefit bowlers

South African legend Shaun Pollock says the ICC Cricket Committee is working on giving bowlers "a bit more leeway on wides," as the current rule is "very strict on them," especially when batters make last-minute movements. Batters often make late movements across the crease to disrupt bowlers' line and length in ODIs and T20Is, which frequently results in wides.

"I'm working on something. As a member of the ICC Cricket Committee, we're looking to provide bowlers with a bit more flexibility on wides. I think the current rules are very strict," Pollock told PTI on the sidelines of SA20. "If a batter jumps across at the last minute, it doesn't sit well with me. A bowler needs to know, from the start of their run-up, where they can bowl."

Pollock explained that the current rule, which bases wides on the batter's position at the moment of delivery, is problematic. "If a batter moves and the wide is judged based on where they are at that moment, it's unfair. I'd like to see that changed slightly," he added.

The 51-year-old emphasised that bowlers must have clarity on their plans before their run-up. "Bowlers need to know exactly what's expected when they're running in. How can they be expected to change their game plan at the last second? They need a clear idea of their target," he said.

"This is being discussed. We're working on it. It's important to give something back to the bowlers," Pollock added.

Pollock also spoke about the growth of the SA20 league, comparing its rise to the IPL. "It has gone from strength to strength. This year, the Catch 2 Million competition was added, which has brought even more excitement," he said.

"I see young kids being encouraged to come to the ground, which is fantastic. With the current economic challenges, it's great to see families getting involved. The league has definitely gained momentum."

He stressed the importance of the SA20 for South African cricket. "The game needed this injection-there's no doubt about it. It has sparked incredible interest and excitement, which South African cricket desperately needed," Pollock concluded.