As we eagerly await the commencement of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 on March 22, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced several rule amendments designed to elevate the excitement and fairness of the tournament. From lifting the saliva ban to introducing innovative gameplay adjustments, here’s what fans can look forward to in the upcoming season.
Saliva Ban Lifted
In a significant move, IPL 2025 will see the return of the use of saliva for ball shining. This practice was banned as a health precaution during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following extensive discussions with the captains of all 10 teams, a consensus was reached to reinstate this aspect of the game, much to the relief of bowlers who rely on this method to maintain the ball’s condition.
Introduction of the ‘Second Ball’ Rule
A new and noteworthy addition to the IPL rulebook is the ‘Second Ball’ rule, tailored specifically to address the challenges posed by dew in night matches. Dew can significantly hinder a bowler’s grip on the ball, tilting the game in favor of the batsmen, especially during high-stakes run chases. To counteract this, umpires will now have the authority to introduce a new ball after the 11th over of the second innings if excessive dew is present. This rule aims to balance the playing conditions and will not apply to afternoon games.
Impact Player Rule to Stay
The Impact Player rule, a popular innovation from previous seasons, will continue to be a part of IPL 2025. This rule permits teams to make strategic substitutions during a match. It opens up more opportunities for uncapped players to showcase their skills on the grand stage, ensuring that talent and strategy remain at the forefront of the competition.
DRS Enhancements: Height and Off-Side Wides
In a bid to improve the accuracy of officiating, the Decision Review System (DRS) has been expanded to include reviews for height-based no-balls and wides outside the off-stump. With the integration of Hawk-Eye technology and advanced ball-tracking capabilities, these enhancements will support umpires in making more precise decisions, thereby enhancing the fairness of play.
