The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented new regulations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, focusing on player movement, dressing room access, and match-day protocols. These measures aim to ensure better discipline and streamlined operations for teams.
Restricted Access to Dressing Rooms and Practice Sessions
Under the new rules, family members and friends of players will not be allowed inside the dressing room during practice sessions or match days. Previously, there was some flexibility during practice days, but the BCCI has now restricted access exclusively to accredited personnel. Family members and friends can still watch practice sessions from designated hospitality areas but must travel separately from the team.
Additionally, any extended support staff, such as throw-down specialists and net bowlers, must be pre-approved by the BCCI before receiving non-match-day accreditation. These changes were communicated to all franchises via an official email after being discussed with team managers during a virtual meeting on February 18.
Mandatory Team Travel and Match-Day Conduct
To reinforce team unity and security, the BCCI has mandated that all players must travel to practice sessions and matches using the team bus. This rule aligns with international cricket protocols followed by the Indian team. Teams are allowed to travel in two separate batches if necessary.
On match days, players and support staff must carry their official accreditations, with penalties in place for non-compliance. Furthermore, players are required to wear the Orange and Purple caps for at least two overs during the match and during the post-match presentation ceremony. The BCCI has also banned the use of sleeveless jerseys in official events, with financial penalties for repeated violations.
Practice and Match-Day Guidelines
During the tournament, teams will have access to designated practice areas, including two nets and one side wicket for range hitting. Open nets are not allowed, and once a team finishes its session, the other team cannot extend its practice time. Fitness tests will not be conducted on match days on the main pitch, and all requests related to practice or fitness assessments must be directed to the venue manager.
To ensure smooth match-day operations, players are prohibited from sitting in front of LED boards, which have often been damaged by ball strikes. Teams are expected to follow sponsorship guidelines for substitute players’ seating arrangements.
The BCCI has scheduled an in-person meeting with all IPL captains on March 20 in Mumbai to elaborate on these new regulations. The upcoming IPL season is set to begin in Kolkata on March 22.
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