BCCI Announces Key Changes for IPL 2025 Season
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed several important updates ahead of the 18th season of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL), following a meeting with captains, coaches, and managers at its headquarters on Thursday, March 20.
Among the most notable changes is the decision to lift the ban on using saliva to shine the ball. Effective from IPL 2025, bowlers will now be permitted to use saliva once again, a practice that was prohibited during the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision came after consultations with all 10 IPL teams, marking a return to traditional ball maintenance methods.
In an effort to tackle challenges caused by dew during evening matches, the BCCI has introduced a new rule allowing the team bowling second to request a ball change once after the 10th over. The bowling captain can make the request, regardless of visible dew. Once requested, umpires must replace the ball with another of similar wear and tear. The bowling team, however, will not have the choice of the replacement ball.
Additionally, the umpires retain the authority to change the ball before the 10th over if it is deemed too wet, out of shape, lost, or damaged. In cases where a ball is changed later in the innings due to dew, the umpires are also required to replace it.
Another major update is the introduction of a new Code of Conduct, which will include a demerit points system and suspension points that remain valid for 36 months. This new system aims to uphold discipline across the league.
Furthermore, the Decision Review System (DRS) has been expanded for the IPL 2025 season. The updated system will now cover height-based no-ball reviews and wide-ball reviews outside the off-stump. Hawk-Eye technology and ball-tracking will assist umpires in making more accurate and consistent decisions.
These changes reflect the BCCI’s commitment to enhancing the playing conditions and ensuring a smoother, more accurate officiating process for the upcoming IPL season.