The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to return with a fresh set of rules for the upcoming season. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced several key changes affecting player travel, match-day protocols, and practice sessions. Among the most notable updates are the ban on family members in the Player and Match Officials Area (PMOA) and stricter practice session guidelines. Here’s a breakdown of the most important rule changes for IPL 2025.
Players Must Travel by Team Bus
Starting this season, all players must travel to and from matches on the team bus. This rule mirrors the one imposed on the Indian national team for both home and international matches. Teams can split into two groups when heading to practice sessions, but individual players will no longer be allowed to arrange their own transportation.
Additionally, players’ family members and friends must travel separately and can only watch training sessions from a designated hospitality area. For extended support staff (such as throwdown specialists and net bowlers), teams must submit a list for BCCI approval, and once approved, special non-match-day accreditations will be issued.
Match Day Rules: Stricter Guidelines for Teams
To maintain discipline and order on match days, the IPL has introduced the following regulations:
- Support Staff Limit – Each team can have a maximum of 12 support staff members, including a team doctor. All staff must be officially accredited to be present on match days.
- Orange and Purple Caps Rule – Players who hold the Orange Cap (top run-scorer) and Purple Cap (top wicket-taker) must wear them for the first two overs of an innings to ensure the TV broadcast captures the moment.
- No Sleeveless Jerseys at Presentations – Sleeveless jerseys have been banned from the post-match presentation ceremony. Players must wear full-sleeve or short-sleeve jerseys for any official media interaction after the game.
- Jersey Number Changes – If a player wishes to change their jersey number, the team must inform the IPL authorities at least 24 hours before the change takes effect.
New Practice Session Regulations: Open Nets Banned
IPL 2025 will also see stricter training regulations, aimed at preserving playing conditions and ensuring fairness. Key updates include:
- No Open Nets – Teams must practice only in designated areas, and open practice sessions will no longer be allowed.
- No Practice on Match Days – To preserve the condition of the pitch, teams are banned from training on match days.
- Support Staff Must Be Approved – Just like on match days, support staff members require special accreditation to attend training sessions.
- Exclusive Training Time Slots – If one team finishes practice early, the other team cannot use their wickets for extra practice. This ensures fairness and prevents teams from gaining an advantage.
Impact of the New Rules: Stricter Player and Team Management
With these tighter regulations, IPL 2025 aims to enhance organization, fairness, and professionalism. The updated travel, match day, and training policies ensure that players remain focused on the game while maintaining the quality of playing conditions.
As the new season approaches, teams must adapt quickly to these new rules to ensure compliance and maintain their best form throughout the tournament.(Dubai7-Realmoneygame)