Ahead of IPL 2025, the BCCI has implemented new rules, under which each team is allowed only seven practice sessions. The duration of each practice session should not exceed three hours. Apart from this, teams will be allowed to play two warm-up matches. However, open nets or match-day practice will not be allowed once the season starts.
Step taken to keep pitches safe
According to a Cricbuzz report, these rules have been implemented to maintain the quality of the pitches, as they have already been used a lot after a long domestic season. The rule was implemented when the BCCI instructed the IPL ground staff not to use the pitches for any local or non-official league matches.
Only two open nets allowed
According to the report, franchises will be allowed to conduct seven practice sessions of three hours each under floodlights. Two of these sessions can be held as practice matches or open nets. Practice matches will be played on a side wicket of the main pitch. If a team wants to play a practice match under lights, its duration should not exceed three and a half hours.
Home teams can seek help from the state association
During the IPL season, no team will be allowed to play a practice session or practice match on the main pitch four days before its first home match. However, during this time teams will be allowed to do range hitting on the side wicket. If the home franchise needs it, it can seek assistance from the state association.
BCCI will intervene on the practice schedule
If two teams want to practice at the same time, the BCCI has set a process to resolve this dispute. First, the managers of both the teams will try to find a solution by mutual consent. If no result is reached, the BCCI will take the final decision keeping in mind the needs of both the teams.
Range hitting facility during IPL 2025 season
Although open nets will not be allowed once the season starts, the BCCI will provide a wicket to each team, which can be used for range hitting, run-ups, throwdowns and other practice needs.
These new rules implemented for IPL 2025 will not only help in keeping the pitches safe but will also balance the practice schedule of the teams.
