IPL 2025: BCCI Announces New Rules and Protocols
As the excitement builds for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a series of strict regulations aimed at enhancing the tournament’s integrity and operational efficiency. These changes, communicated to franchises via a recent email and discussed in a virtual meeting on February 18, encompass player conduct, logistics, and match-day protocols.
Key Travel and Family Guidelines
The BCCI has mandated that players must travel to practice sessions using the team bus, a rule already standard in international cricket. Additionally, the presence of family members and friends in the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) has been restricted.
- Family and friends are no longer allowed in the dressing room on practice or match days.
- They must travel separately and can only observe team practice sessions from designated hospitality areas.
- Extended support staff, such as throw-down specialists and net bowlers, require BCCI approval for non-match day accreditations.
Practice Sessions and Fitness Testing
To streamline practice facilities, the BCCI has outlined specific guidelines:
- Teams will have access to two nets and one side wicket on the main square for practice.
- Open nets are prohibited, and no practice is allowed on match days.
- Fitness tests on the main square during match days are banned to prevent disruptions.
- Traditional pre-match practice on the central track is no longer permitted, emphasizing the need for pre-planned fitness assessments.
Match-Day Protocols and Attire
Several new match-day rules have been introduced to maintain professionalism and discipline:
- Accredited staff must carry their credentials at all times, with penalties for non-compliance.
- Players must wear the iconic Orange and Purple caps for at least the first two overs of a match broadcast.
- During post-match presentations, floppies and sleeveless jerseys are banned, with financial penalties for violations.
- Players and staff must avoid standing in front of or damaging LED boards during practice sessions.
Captains’ Meeting Ahead of IPL 2025
To ensure clarity on these new regulations, the BCCI has scheduled an in-person meeting with all team captains on March 20 at the Cricket Centre in Mumbai. Traditionally held in the host city of the league’s opening match, this meeting will precede the IPL 2025 opener on March 22 in Kolkata.
These comprehensive changes underscore the BCCI’s commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring a seamless experience in the world’s most-watched cricket league.
Also Read:
- From Sourav Ganguly to Ajinkya Rahane – Full list of KKR captains in IPL history
- Is IPL 2025 MS Dhoni’s farewell season? Sanju Samson’s viral clip sparks retirement speculation
(Image Source: CricketTimes.com)
