Just days before the start of the 19th season of the Indian Premier League, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has rolled out a fresh set of strict guidelines for players and teams. These new rules, introduced ahead of IPL 2026, aim to streamline operations, maintain pitch quality, and ensure better discipline during training and match days.
According to reports, the updated regulations have already been shared with all team managers, and franchises are expected to strictly follow them throughout the tournament.
No Family or Friends During Practice Sessions
One of the most significant changes introduced this season is related to player access during training.
Under the new rules:
- Family members and friends of players will not be allowed inside dressing rooms or practice areas
- They must stay in designated hospitality or spectator zones
- Access to the field during training sessions has been completely restricted
This move is aimed at maintaining professionalism and avoiding unnecessary crowding in sensitive areas like dressing rooms and practice nets.
Match-Day Practice Sessions Banned
In a major shift, the BCCI has decided to eliminate practice sessions on match days.
- Teams will no longer be allowed to train on the same day as the match
- This step has been taken to preserve pitch conditions
- It also ensures smoother scheduling and avoids overuse of playing surfaces
Teams will now need to complete their preparations within designated training windows before match day.
Mandatory Travel via Team Bus
Another key guideline focuses on player movement:
- Players must travel to and from the stadium only via the team bus
- Use of private vehicles will be restricted, even in home cities
While many players already follow this system, some used personal transport during home matches. The new rule enforces uniformity and enhances security and coordination.
Strict Practice Area Allocation
To ensure fairness and proper pitch management, new practice-related restrictions have also been introduced:
- Teams cannot use the opposition’s practice area, even if it is vacant
- Use of open nets has been restricted
- No team is allowed to practice on a wicket already used by another team
These rules aim to maintain pitch integrity and avoid excessive wear and tear before matches.
Special Practice Arrangements for Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium
The BCCI has also designed venue-specific plans, especially for the Wankhede Stadium.
- Each team will get two dedicated nets for practice
- An additional side wicket will be provided for range hitting
- If both teams practice simultaneously, they will be allocated equal practice wickets
This structured approach ensures that all teams get fair and sufficient preparation time.
No Fitness Drills on Match Pitch
Continuing with existing restrictions, teams are not allowed to conduct fitness drills on the main pitch on match day. This rule remains in place to protect the playing surface from unnecessary damage.
Why BCCI Introduced These Changes
The stricter rules reflect BCCI’s focus on:
- Maintaining high-quality pitches throughout the tournament
- Ensuring discipline and professionalism among players
- Improving logistics and match-day efficiency
- Enhancing the overall viewing experience for fans
With IPL growing bigger every year, such structured guidelines are crucial for smooth execution.
As IPL 2026 approaches, the BCCI’s latest directives signal a more disciplined and organized tournament environment. From restricting family access during practice to banning match-day training and enforcing team bus travel, these changes are expected to bring greater uniformity and professionalism.
Teams will now have to adapt quickly to these rules as they prepare for one of the most anticipated cricket tournaments of the year.
