BCCI Implements Strict Practice and Protocol Guidelines for IPL 2026 Season
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a comprehensive set of operational directives to franchise managers regarding practice sessions, travel logistics, and match-day protocols for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The new regulations severely restrict match-day activities and introduce strict dress codes for post-match presentations to maintain broadcast quality and operational efficiency.
Revised Training and Pitch Usage Rules
According to the internal memo, franchises are no longer permitted to hold practice sessions on match days. Training parameters during designated practice days have also been heavily standardized across all venues to prevent pitch degradation.
- Net Allocations: Teams are limited to two nets in the designated practice area and one side wicket on the main square specifically reserved for range-hitting.
- Wicket Usage Restrictions: Open nets are strictly prohibited. Furthermore, if a franchise concludes its training session early, the opposing team is barred from taking over the unused wickets.
- Wankhede Exception: At Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, space constraints dictate that if both teams train simultaneously, each squad will receive exactly two wickets.
- Fitness Testing: Teams cannot conduct player fitness tests on the main square on match days.
Logistics and Stadium Regulations
The Indian Premier League governing council is enforcing distinct separation between team operations and personal entourages. Players must travel to the stadium in official team buses. While franchises can split travel into two batches, players must travel entirely separate from family members and friends. Personal guests are required to use independent transportation and view the match from designated hospitality areas.
Match-Day Conduct and Broadcasting Directives
The BCCI has implemented specific in-game rules to protect stadium infrastructure and satisfy broadcast partners. Players are instructed not to hit balls against perimeter LED boards during warm-ups, despite the availability of hitting nets. Additionally, players and support staff are banned from sitting directly in front of these LED displays. Substitutes must remain in designated seating zones, complete with marked locations for towels and water bottles.
Broadcasting visibility remains a primary focus for the league. Players holding the tournament’s leading run-scorer and wicket-taker awards must wear the respective Orange and Purple caps while fielding. If a player resists, the regulations mandate they wear the cap for at least the first two overs of the innings to ensure television exposure.
Post-Match Presentation Penalties
Franchise management must ensure professional attire during post-match ceremonies. The BCCI has officially banned sleeveless jerseys and slippers during these global broadcasts. Enforcement includes a structured penalty system for uniform violations.
| Violation Type | Offense | Penalty Issued |
|---|---|---|
| Dress Code | First Offense (Sleeveless/Slippers) | Official Warning |
| Dress Code | Second Offense | Financial Penalty |
| Protocol | Unauthorized Main Square Fitness Test | Direct Franchise Sanction |
For continuing coverage on franchise regulations and season updates, refer to ESPNcricinfo. These structured mandates indicate a clear shift by the governing body to tighten operational control, prioritize sponsor visibility, and enforce a uniform standard of professionalism across all ten franchises.