The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a new regulation stating the minimum age for participation at international matches including under 19 tournaments.

A player must be at least 15 years old to eligible to play at international level. The rule will be applicable for any men s, women s or Under-19 international cricket matches.

The ICC Board stated that the minimum age restriction of 15 years for international cricket was decided "to improve safeguarding of players". The restriction will apply across all cricket including ICC events, bilateral cricket and Under-19 matches.

Therefore, "To play in any form of men's, women's or Under-19 international cricket players must now be a minimum age of 15," the release said.

However, they have noted that in exceptional circumstances, a Member Board could apply to the ICC to allow a player under the age of 15 to play for them. This could include where the player's playing experience and mental development and wellbeing demonstrates that they would be capable of coping with the demands of international cricket.

Pakistan's Hasan Raza, who played seven Tests and 16 ODIs between 1996 and 2005, holds the record of being youngest to play international cricket. The right-handed batsman made his Test debut when he was 14 years and 227 days old while he played his first ODI six days later. 

Sachin Tendulkar played for India in Tests at the age of 16 years and 205 days.