Players will be allowed to challenge close umpiring calls after the controversial video review system was cleared by cricket’s governing body.
The experiment, allowing players a set number of unsuccessful challenges per innings, was trialled in four test series before it came up for review last month.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) approved the review system on a permanent basis on the first day of its board meeting in London.
It will come into operation from October, so England and Australia players will not be able to challenge decisions during the Ashes series starting in July.
Opinions on the system have been mixed among players, television commentators and fans.
There were concerns the authority of the umpires would be undermined, although the ICC said the positives far outweighed the negatives with more correct decisions being made.
The possibility of staging the first day-night test next year moved closer after the ICC said it would explore the idea further.
One of the concerns, however, is the colour of the ball. Trials are being carried out on alternatives to the traditional red ball which would not be suitable under lights.
The ICC announced tougher measures on boards providing ”poor” pitches and also doubled fines for slow over-rates.
It will also discuss the possibility of Pakistan hosting matches at the 2011 World Cup following security concerns. — Reuters