IPL 2026: What Are The New Match-Day & Practice Session Rules Laid Down By BCCI?

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India has rolled out a fresh set of regulations for the IPL 2026 season, making it clear that all players and support staff are required to adhere strictly to the updated guidelines. The board has also cautioned that any breach could lead to disciplinary action, including fines and formal warnings.

The new season is set to kick off on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Ahead of the tournament, the BCCI has circulated the updated rulebook to all team managers to ensure smooth implementation throughout the season.

IPL 2026: What Are The New Practice Rules?

1. Open practice sessions are prohibited; all training must take place strictly within designated net areas.

2. Teams cannot use pitches assigned to another side, even if the original team finishes their session early.

3. No practice sessions will be permitted on match days under any circumstances.

4. Conducting fitness drills or tests on the field during match days is not allowed.

5. Access to the field on practice days is restricted to players and officially accredited staff only. Family members and friends must remain in designated hospitality areas, and franchises are required to submit a list of net bowlers and throwdown specialists for BCCI approval.

6. Players are required to travel to practice sessions using the team bus, although teams may split into two groups if needed. Any practice-related requests must be coordinated with the Venue Manager.

IPL 2026: What Are The Match-Day Rules?

• All support staff are required to carry their accreditation cards at all times. A first-time lapse will lead to a warning, while repeated violations will attract a fine.
• Players must exercise caution while using the hitting nets to ensure balls do not strike the LED advertising boards.
• Sitting in front of the LED boards is prohibited. Designated seating areas for substitute players will be marked by the respective franchise.
• Players holding the Orange Cap and Purple Cap are required to wear them during matches.
• For post-match presentations, players must adhere to the dress code. Floppy hats and sleeveless jerseys are not permitted, and any breach will result in penalties.
• On match days, only 12 members of the support staff, including the team doctor, will be allowed inside the designated areas, in line with previous IPL regulations.

IPL 2026: What Are The New Rules For Jersey?

Teams must inform the league at least 24 hours in advance if they intend to change jersey numbers. Franchises are permitted to play a maximum of two practice matches with prior approval from the BCCI, and these must be held on side wickets.

If conducted under lights, such matches should not exceed three and a half hours in duration. Additionally, teams are not allowed to train on the main square for four days leading up to their first home fixture, and if necessary, must work with the State Association to arrange an alternative practice venue.