The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has introduced new, stricter equipment regulations—and it seems not everyone is playing by the rules. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently cracked down on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) players Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje for violating bat size restrictions during their match against Punjab Kings.
BCCI’s New Bat Regulations for IPL 2025
To maintain fairness and consistency, the BCCI now mandates that:
- Bat width must not exceed 10.79 cm
- Bat thickness must not exceed 6.7 cm
- Bat length must not exceed 96.4 cm
All bats are now subject to inspection before and during matches.
Narine and Nortje Caught Using Oversized Bats
During the match played on Tuesday, Sunil Narine’s bat was found to be larger than the legal dimensions before the start of the innings. The violation was caught by reserve umpire Syed Khalid, who measured the bat during a standard equipment check.
Narine, who was set to open alongside Angkrish Raghuvanshi, was asked to change his bat immediately. Raghuvanshi’s bat passed inspection.
Later in the match, KKR pacer Anrich Nortje was also found using a bat exceeding the allowed size. When he walked out to bat in the 16th over, he too was ordered to replace his bat.
The Consequence
While the players were not fined, both were forced to replace their bats before continuing to play. Narine only managed 5 runs before being dismissed, and Nortje batted briefly in a collapsing KKR innings.
KKR's Embarrassing Defeat
Despite Punjab Kings being bowled out for just 111 runs, KKR's batting order collapsed under pressure. The team—considered one of the stronger sides—was bundled out for 95 runs, failing to chase a modest total.
Social Media Reacts
The incident drew swift reaction online, with fans expressing both criticism and mockery. One post read:
"Glad Narine is getting pulled up at least while batting."
What's Next?
As IPL 2025 continues, the BCCI is expected to enforce regulations more strictly. This incident sets a precedent that no player is above the rules, regardless of their star power.
