New Delhi: Only four days remain until the commencement of the Indian Premier League. The first match of the 19th season of the IPL is scheduled to be played on March 28, 2026, and preparations for the event have been completed. The opening fixture will be contested between the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Sunrisers Hyderabad—a clash that has generated immense excitement among both players and cricket fans.
Ahead of the IPL’s start, the BCCI has issued a list of guidelines designed to ensure discipline and adherence to protocols among the players. These BCCI regulations are of paramount importance for all players participating in the Indian Premier League, and they must familiarise themselves with them.
Which Rules Will Apply in IPL 2026?
Before the commencement of the 19th season of the Indian Premier League, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) released a list of regulations that are mandatory to know. Under the new rules, “open net” practice sessions have been completely prohibited. Now, each team will be allotted access to two specific practice nets. If one team finishes its practice session early, the other team will not be permitted to utilise those specific nets.
Furthermore, on practice days, it will be mandatory for players to arrive at the stadium by boarding the designated team bus. During practice sessions, family members will not be permitted to accompany players into the dressing room. Access to the dressing room will be restricted solely to authorised staff members. However, family members who wish to attend may do so by arriving at the stadium in a separate vehicle.
Players are permitted to sit in the designated hospitality areas. Additionally, players have been instructed to refrain from hitting cricket balls towards the LED display boards; sitting directly in front of the LED boards is also prohibited. Any player currently holding the Orange Cap or the Purple Cap is required to wear the respective cap for a minimum duration of two overs. Furthermore, the wearing of floppy caps, sleeveless jerseys, or flip-flops during post-match presentations has been banned.
No Medical Tests on Match Days
According to the new BCCI regulations, no medical tests or examinations are to be conducted on the main playing square on match days. Any violation of this rule will result in a two-step disciplinary process: an initial warning, followed by the imposition of a penalty or punishment. Additionally, a new protocol has been introduced regarding match days.
The support staff—including the team doctor—must be limited to 12 members, and every staff member is required to carry an accreditation card. If a player wishes to change their jersey number, they must inform the BCCI at least 24 hours in advance.