Super Over could decide World Cup winners

A Super Over could decide the 2015 World Cup winner in case the final ends in a tie at the Melbourne Cricket Ground March 29.

The decision was made by the International Cricket Council (ICC) following its Board meeting here Thursday.

The ICC reinstated the use of Super Over in the event of a tie during the World Cup final, replicating the arrangements of the 2011 edition final and other ICC events where a winner is determined via a Super Over, in case of a tie in the final, as it is the most credible way to separate two sides.

The board also approved a change to the application of ICC Code of Conduct offences relating to slow over-rates so that captains do not carry any prior offences or suspensions from other series.

This means all captains will enter the World Cup with no over-rate offences against them and will only be suspended from playing a World Cup match if over-rate offences are committed during the event. Any offence incurred prior will be carried forward to the first bilateral series after the event.

In decisions relating to on-field player behaviour, the ICC reiterated its support for umpires clamping down on poor behaviour, particularly leading into and during the World Cup.

The board also discussed issues about player safety following the tragic death of Australia batsman Phillip Hughes during a first-class match. It was briefed on the ICC-supported research project to improve the safety of helmets.

It was noted that helmet manufacturers have now introduced a number of new models that comply with the updated standards and that an increasing number of international players have been choosing to wear the new models.

The board also approved the dates of ICC events through to 2019 which includes the 2016 World Twenty20 to be held in India. The tournament will be played from March 11 to April 3 in 2016.

The ICC also approved the dates for the next 50-over World Cup to played in England in 2019. That edition will be held from May 30 to July 15 in 2019.