ODIs: two new balls, then one

For years one-day internationals used a new ball from each end for the full 50 overs. That kept the ball hard and white, but gave very little reverse swing to the bowlers.

What changed

• Overs 1 to 34: one new ball from each end, just as before.
• From over 35: the fielding side chooses one of the two balls and uses it for the rest of the innings.

Why

Using only one ball for the last 16 overs lets it get older and softer, bringing reverse swing and finger spin back into the death overs and giving bowlers a fairer contest with batters.

The change was introduced into men's ODI playing conditions from July 2025.