Australian all-rounder and hard hitter James Faulkner in a recent interaction stated that the new ODI rules had bridged the gap between bat and ball. As per the recently altered ODI rules by the ICC, as many as five fielders are allowed outside the 30 yard circle in the last 10 overs of an innings. To an extent, this rule has been a much needed respite for the bowlers.
“I did actually notice a change. The big change was the overs leading into the powerplay, with batters tending to milk it around and staying, and then use that as a launching pad,” Faulkner said. “That was obviously a dangerous time for any team batting if you lost a wicket before that five-over period, it could halt your momentum. Likewise, if you didn’t lose a wicket, it could help them set up a big total. I quite like the new rules. It goes back to five fielders outside the circle in the last ten overs. It’s still a massive challenge for the bowlers no doubt, but it’s a bit more normal now.”
“I think you walk onto the ground, you try to entertain,” he said. “I don’t think you specifically walk out thinking ‘I want to put on a show’, it’s more about worrying about how you contribute to the team. I think the revolution of the Big Bash, with big crowds and better TV ratings, it’s an exciting time for cricket in general. I think you are seeing a lot more of high scores now, all around the world – teams are consistently scoring over 300. I think that’s entertaining enough,” he added.
The left-arm pacer was quick to admit that in order to curb the run flow, it was necessary to take wickets regularly. “You’ve obviously got to take wickets. That’s the aim of the game. It’s up to the captain and the feeling you have. Whether you’re going to attack or not. I think if you get wickets in the first ten overs, most captains will keep attacking looking for wickets 3, 4 and 5. Because if teams are one or two down, like the other day, with 15 overs to go, then it’s really hard to bowl. I think being aggressive and trying to take wickets throughout is the main objective with both teams.”