The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced new regulations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. These rules were communicated to all franchises via email after being discussed in a meeting with team managers on February 18 2025, conducted via Zoom call.

Restrictions on Family Members and Support Staff

A new clause regarding family members of players and support staff states that they will not be allowed inside the dressing room, even on practice days. They were already restricted from entering on match days.

“On practice days (both pre-tournament and during the tournament), only accredited staff will be allowed in the dressing room and on the field of play,” the BCCI stated in its communication.

Family members and friends must travel in a separate vehicle and can watch team practice from the hospitality area. Additionally, teams must submit a list of extended support staff, including throwdown specialists and net bowlers, for BCCI approval. Once approved, they will receive non-match day accreditation.

Fitness Tests and Dress Code

The BCCI has also prohibited conducting fitness tests on the main pitch on match days. Traditionally, physios test players' fitness on the main track just before the start of a match, but this practice will no longer be allowed.

Furthermore, players must wear Orange and Purple Caps for at least the first two overs of a match. During the post-match presentation, players will not be permitted to wear sleeveless jerseys. Failure to comply will result in a warning for the first offense and a financial penalty for the second.

To elaborate on these regulations, the BCCI has scheduled an in-person meeting with all team captains on March 20 at the Cricket Centre in Mumbai. This meeting is typically held in the host city of the season’s opening match. The IPL 2025 season is set to begin in Kolkata on March 22.

Key Rule Changes

Practice Regulations

Each team will have access to two nets in the practice area and one side wicket on the main square for range hitting. In Mumbai, if both teams are practicing simultaneously, each will receive two wickets.
Open nets will not be allowed.
If a team finishes its practice session early, the other team cannot use its wickets.
No practice will be permitted on match days.
Fitness tests on the main square will not be allowed on match days.
On practice days, only accredited staff are allowed in the dressing room and on the field. Family members and friends must travel separately and watch practice from the hospitality area.
Players must use the team bus for practice sessions, with teams allowed to travel in two batches.
Any requests related to practice or fitness tests on match days must be directed to the Venue Manager.

Match Day Regulations

PMOA-accredited staff must carry their accreditation on match days. A first-time failure to do so will result in a warning, while a second offense will incur a financial penalty.
Players are requested not to hit balls at the LED boards, despite the provision of hitting nets.
Players and support staff must avoid sitting in front of the LED boards. Specific seating areas for substitutes carrying towels and water bottles will be marked.
Players must wear Orange and Purple Caps for the first two overs of a match for broadcast purposes.
In the post-match presentation, wearing floppy hats or sleeveless jerseys is not allowed. A first offense will result in a warning, while a second will lead to a fine.
Similar to the IPL 2024 season, only 12 accredited support staff members, including the team doctor, will be permitted on match days.

Jersey Number Guidelines

Any changes to a player’s jersey number must be communicated at least 24 hours in advance, as per the clothing and equipment guidelines.

With these new regulations in place, the BCCI aims to maintain discipline and enhance the professionalism of the league.

Crick Clare

Articles by Crick Clare