After the controversial finish to Saturday’s (February 15) WPL clash between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, the competition has reportedly changed its rules regarding LED bails.
This means the pre-existing rule, which states that the stumps are deemed to be broken as soon as the bails light up, stands invalid with immediate effect.
According to an ESPNCricinfo report, the rule change was prompted by the realisation that the bails used in the ongoing WPL have been lighting up with the slightest of disturbance, even if they aren't completely off the grooves
The report states that a decision was made where the third umpire would base their final ruling on once the bail is completely dislodged with both spigots coming out of their grooves. The match officials were made aware of the rule change on the morning of the match between Delhi and Mumbai. However, the teams were informed about the amendment the day after the game.
In that game, the third umpire for the match, Gayathri Venugopalan, took the three contentious run-out decisions based on the point when the bails were completely off their grooves.
Out or Not Out?
— Wisden India (@WisdenIndia) February 15, 2025
A thrilling finish in the second match of the 2025 WPL.#WPL2025 https://t.co/q7JEksvUFO
WPL hasn't yet updated its playing conditions. Appendix D of the older guidelines states: "Where LED wickets are used, the moment at which the wicket has been put down shall be deemed to be the first frame in which the LED lights are illuminated and subsequent frames show the bail permanently removed from the top of the stumps."
In the match, MI were bowled out for 164 in 19.1 overs following crucial knocks from Nat Sciver-Brunt (80*) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (42). The game went down to the wire as DC gunned down the total off the last ball with two wickets remaining.
