What happens on a reserve day?
A · Advanced · How does a match work, and how is it won? · 20 of 20A reserve day is a spare day some series and tournaments set aside. The umpires first try to finish the match on the scheduled day, cutting overs if needed. Only if not even the minimum overs for a result can be played does the match move to the reserve day, where it carries on from the last ball bowled.
How it works
- The umpires decide on weather and light as if there were no reserve day.
- On the reserve day, the hours are the same as the scheduled day, with the same extra time.
- If the match had started, it continues from where it stopped, with the same overs and scores.
- If the toss had happened but no play, the toss and the named teams carry over.
- The competition must have agreed a reserve day in advance; not every match has one.
Tricky cases
Does the match start again from the beginning on the reserve day?
No, if it had started: it continues from the last ball. A match that had not started is played from the start.
Is there a new toss on the reserve day?
No, if the toss had already happened.
Can overs be restored on the reserve day?
No. If the overs had been reduced on the scheduled day, play resumes as if the last ball had been bowled on that day.
Why the rule exists
It gives important matches a second chance at a full result without changing a match already under way.
Where it differs
Only in ICC men's ODIs and T20 internationals where the series or event provides one (PC-O, PC-I 13.6). Not in the Laws.
From the rule book
ICC men's ODI and T20I playing conditions, clause 13.6 and Appendix G, October 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: ICC playing conditions (PDF).