Tightened Rules on Family Access and Team Travel
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced stricter regulations for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Among the key changes, family members of players and support staff will have restricted access to the Players’ and Match Officials Area (PMOA), both before and during matches. Additionally, players must now adhere to a mandatory team bus travel policy, a rule already enforced for Team India during international matches.
“Players to use the team bus while coming for practice. Teams may travel in two batches,” states a new directive from the BCCI, communicated via an official mail to all franchises. This was also discussed with team managers in a Zoom meeting held on February 18.
Dressing Room Access Restrictions
As per the new guidelines, only accredited staff are allowed in the dressing room during practice sessions. While family members and friends of players may travel separately, they will only be permitted to watch practice sessions from designated hospitality areas. Furthermore, teams must submit a list of extended support staff, such as throw-down specialists and net bowlers, for BCCI approval to receive non-match day accreditations.
Stricter Match Day Regulations
Match days will now come with additional restrictions:
- Mandatory Accreditation: PMOA-accredited staff must carry their accreditation at all times. A first-time violation will result in a warning, while a second offense will attract a financial penalty.
- No Unauthorized Hitting on LED Boards: Players must refrain from hitting the ball into LED advertising boards, and substitutes must not sit directly in front of them.
- Cap-Wearing Requirement: Players awarded the Orange or Purple Cap must wear them for at least the first two overs to ensure broadcast visibility.
- Strict Dress Code for Post-Match Presentations: Players are prohibited from wearing floppies and sleeveless jerseys during the post-match presentation ceremonies. A first-time violation will result in a warning, while a repeat offense will lead to a monetary fine.
- Limited Support Staff on Match Days: Only 12 accredited support staff, including the team doctor, will be permitted on match days.
Updated Practice Regulations
The BCCI has also implemented changes regarding practice sessions during the tournament:
- Net and Wicket Allocation: Teams will be assigned two nets and one side wicket for range hitting. At the Mumbai venue, if both teams are practicing simultaneously, they will get two wickets each.
- Prohibition on Open Nets: Open net sessions will not be allowed during practice.
- Exclusive Use of Practice Wickets: If one team finishes their practice early, the other team cannot utilize the remaining wickets.
- No Practice on Match Days: Teams are not allowed to conduct practice sessions on match days.
- Fitness Test Restriction: Fitness tests cannot be conducted on the main square on match days.
- Point of Contact for Practice Requests: Any special requests regarding practice or fitness tests on match days must be directed to the Venue Manager.
Special Meeting for Captains Before IPL 2025 Kickoff
To further clarify these new regulations, the BCCI has scheduled an in-person meeting with all IPL team captains on March 20 at the Cricket Centre in Mumbai. Traditionally, such meetings take place in the host city of the IPL’s inaugural match, which is set to begin in Kolkata on March 22.
Jersey Number Change Policy
The BCCI has also reiterated its policy on jersey numbers. If a player wishes to change their jersey number, the request must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance, in line with the clothing and equipment guidelines.
Conclusion
With these revised regulations, the BCCI aims to streamline operations and enhance discipline in the IPL 2025 season. These new policies emphasize team unity, security, and professionalism, ensuring that players and staff adhere to strict conduct both on and off the field.(Dubai7-Realmoneygame)