The Indian Premier League turns to 18 years as the prestigious tournament commences from Saturday (March 22).

Kolkata Knight Riders are set to take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Eden Gardens.

As the new season commences, there have been a few significant changes across all sectors. A few rules have been tweaked while a host of personnel have switched their allegiances from last season.

In this article, we shall take a look at the new things in the competition, which has culminated from last season.

What's New in IPL 2025?

Rule Changes in IPL 2025

1. Saliva Ban Lifted

The saliva ban, initially implemented during the COVID-19 era, has been officially lifted. Bowlers can once again use saliva to shine the ball, giving them better control and swing movement. This is expected to benefit pacers, particularly in early overs.

2. Dew Countermeasure – Fresh Ball in the 11th Over

A significant move to counter the effects of dew in evening matches has been introduced. If the umpires deem the dew factor significant, a fresh ball will be provided at the start of the 11th over, ensuring a fairer contest between bat and ball.

3. Expanded DRS Scope

The Decision Review System (DRS) has been expanded to include:

• Height wides
• Off-side wides

This change allows players to challenge umpiring decisions on these calls, ensuring greater accuracy and fairness.

4. Impact Player Rule Stays

Despite ongoing debates about its fairness, the Impact Player rule will remain unchanged for IPL 2025. Teams can continue to substitute a player during a match, which adds tactical depth to the game.

IPL 2025 Captaincy Shake-Up: Seven Teams Under New Leadership

• Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – Rajat Patidar replaces Virat Kohli as captain.
• Delhi Capitals (DC) – Axar Patel takes charge despite KL Rahul being in the squad.
• Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Shreyas Iyer moves from KKR to lead PBKS.
• Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Ajinkya Rahane takes over after Shreyas Iyer’s departure.
• Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Riyan Parag will serve as interim captain for three matches due to Sanju Samson’s injury.
• Mumbai Indians (MI) – Suryakumar Yadav to lead the opener as Hardik Pandya serves a suspension.

Biggest Storylines of IPL 2025

1. Rishabh Pant’s Redemption Arc, Shreyas Iyer in the Mix

Bought by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for Rs 27 crore, making him the most expensive player in IPL history. Shreyas Iyer was also bought for Rs 26.75 crore by Punjab Kings, thus becoming the second most expensive player in IPL history.

2. Jasprit Bumrah’s Fitness Uncertainty

• Undergoing fitness assessments at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
• His availability is crucial for Mumbai Indians and India’s England tour.

3. MS Dhoni’s Future – Last IPL Season?

Speculation continues around whether this will be Dhoni’s final IPL season. Fans are eager to see if he will continue or bid farewell to the tournament.

4. Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli’s T20 Return

First major T20 tournament for both since their international retirement post-T20 World Cup.

5. Can KKR break their post-title hoodoo?

Kolkata Knight Riders have been unable to reach the playoffs in the season following a title win. So it is to be seen how KKR can showcase their prowess this season and break their historical block.

Support Staff Changes in IPL 2025

• Ricky Ponting: Moves from Delhi Capitals to Punjab Kings as Head Coach.
• Hemang Badani: Takes over as Delhi Capitals' Head Coach.
• Kevin Pietersen: Joins Delhi Capitals as Mentor.
• Rahul Dravid: Appointed as Head Coach of Rajasthan Royals.
• Dwayne Bravo: Becomes KKR’s Mentor, replacing Gautam Gambhir.
• Gautam Gambhir: Now serving as India’s Head Coach.

IPL 2025 Venue Dynamics

• The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium (HPCA Stadium) in Dharamshala will host three matches for Punjab Kings, while the other PBKS home matches will be played at the Mullanpur Stadium.
• Two home matches for the Rajasthan Royals will be played at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati.
• Delhi Capitals shall also play a couple of home matches in Vizag.
• The IPL 2025 playoffs will be played in Hyderabad and Kolkata respectively, with the final set to be played in Kolkata on May 25.