The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a major shake-up in the Indian Premier League (IPL) playing conditions, bringing relief to team captains who have often borne the brunt of slow over-rates.
In a significant policy shift, captains will no longer face match bans for over-rate violations. Instead, they will accumulate demerit points, with a ban enforced only in extreme cases. This decision was communicated at the captains and managers’ meeting held at the BCCI office in Mumbai on March 20.
How the New Over-Rate Penalty Works
Previously, captains have been handed match bans for slow over-rates, impacting their team’s campaign. Notably, Rishabh Pant had to sit out a crucial Delhi Capitals fixture in 2024, while Hardik Pandya will miss Mumbai Indians’ opening game of IPL 2025 due to an over-rate offence from last season.
Under the new system, captains will be penalized with demerit points similar to the ICC’s framework. A Level 1 offence will attract a fine ranging from 25% to 75% of the match fee, along with demerit points that will be tracked for three years. A Level 2 offence, deemed serious, will result in four demerit points.
“For every four demerit points accumulated, the match referee can impose a penalty, either a 100% fine or additional demerit points. However, an immediate match ban will not apply for slow over-rates,”
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Other Key Changes: Impact Player Rule & DRS Tweaks
The much-debated Impact Player Rule will remain in place at least until the end of the 2027 IPL season, despite mixed reactions from players and experts. “The IPL will continue with the Impact Player rule, allowing teams to substitute one player during a match, for the current cycle,” a source confirmed.
Additionally, the Decision Review System (DRS) will now allow teams to challenge wides and height-related wide calls, adding a new tactical element to the game.
Additional Rule Adjustments
- The long-standing saliva ban has been revoked, marking the return of traditional ball-shining methods.
- A second ball will be introduced in the second innings to counter dew, ensuring fairer conditions for bowlers.
With these changes, IPL 2025 is set for an exciting season where captains can breathe a little easier, but teams must remain vigilant about maintaining the over-rate to avoid long-term repercussions
