BCCI restricts field access: Only 16 players allowed in IPL 2026

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has imposed strict rules for the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to the new rules, only players whose names are included on the team sheet will be allowed to enter or move around the field during a match. The list will only allow 16 players.

According to the report, the new rules allow each team to include 16 players on their player list. Of these, 11 will be part of the playing eleven. Additionally, one impact sub and four players can be kept as reserves. No other team member other than these 16 players will be allowed on the field. Players not on the team list will not be allowed to carry drinks, bats, or gloves onto the field. They will also be unable to send messages to other players. Only five players can walk near the boundary line wearing bibs. The remaining players must remain in the dugout. Failure to follow these rules could create problems for the team and players.

According to sources, the team management has been given clear instructions that there will be a complete ban on unnecessary movement of substitute players during the match. Only a limited number of players will be allowed to stay between the boundary line and the LED advertising board. The BCCI is considering further tightening these rules. It is believed that this new rule has been introduced to more strictly enforce clauses 11.5.2 and 24.1.4 of the MPC (Conditions of Play). According to clause 11.5.2, carrying drinks on the field or wasting time without the permission of the umpire is against the rules.

The reason for the BCCI's decision during IPL 2026 is unclear. It is believed that these rules have been introduced to maintain discipline during matches, reduce unnecessary crowds and disruptions, and improve the pace of play.