IPL 2025: BCCI Bans Practice on Match Days, Imposes New Restrictions on Franchises
BCCI has introduced strict new rules for IPL 2025, banning practice on match days and limiting training sessions to keep pitches fresh.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to begin on March 22, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced new rules for franchises regarding practice sessions. These restrictions aim to protect the quality of pitches throughout the tournament.
BCCI Sets Limits on Practice Sessions
BCCI has limited the number of practice sessions for each team to a maximum of seven before their first match. Out of these, two sessions can be practice matches or open nets, depending on the team’s requirements.
- Practice matches should be held on side wickets, not the main square.
- Practice sessions under floodlights cannot exceed three hours.
- If a team plays a practice match under lights, the session must not exceed 3.5 hours.
No Practice on Match Days
To maintain the quality of pitches, BCCI has banned practice sessions on match days. Additionally, no practice or practice matches can take place on the main square for four days before a team’s first home game. However, teams can use one side wicket for range hitting during this period.
Conflict Resolution for Practice Schedules
If both the home and away teams request practice at the same time, BCCI will ask the team managers to resolve the issue. If they fail to reach an agreement, BCCI will assign two separate two-hour slots for each team to ensure fair access.
Restrictions on Open Nets and Field Access
BCCI has also banned open or partially open nets for practice. Additionally, nets must face the non-pavilion side to reduce injury risks. Only players, team staff, and net bowlers will be allowed on the field during practice sessions.
These strict rules have been put in place to ensure that pitches remain in top condition throughout IPL 2025.
