``This is the first time such a tie-break system will be introduced if rains restrict a match to below 25 overs of play,'' said a BCB official.

The new rule was set yesterday during a visit by the chief executive of International Cricket Council, David Richards, ahead of the tournament, to be played here later this month.

In the event of a tie-breaker, five bowlers from each team will be allowed to bowl at an open wicket, and the team which scores highest will win.

``It's like...soccer tie-breakers. If it also ends in a tie then the bowling will continue until the fate is decided,'' another BCB official said. Richards ruled, however, that the new system would not apply if rain disrupted the final, which would then be played the following day.

Teams participating in the 10-day tournament beginning on October 24 will be Australia, India,England, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies, South Africa, Pakistan and Zimbabwe.