The BCCI has implemented strict rules for IPL 2026. Practice will be completely banned on match days, players will be required to travel only on team buses, and family entry has been restricted. Strict rules have also been imposed on LED boards, dress codes, and staff limits. Violations will result in both warnings and fines.
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IPL 2026 Rules: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued new and stricter guidelines for IPL 2026. These rules aim to improve discipline, regulation, and broadcast quality in the tournament.
The most significant change is that no team will be allowed to practice on match day. The BCCI has taken this decision to maintain pitch quality and better manage the busy schedule.
Practice on match day has been completely banned. Teams will now be required to prepare in advance. According to the new guidelines, teams will be required to prepare within the designated training window before the match. There will be no net practice or fitness drills on match day, nor will there be any fitness drills in the main square.
Special rules have been established for practice at large venues like Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. Each team will be provided with two nets and a side wicket in the main square for range hitting. If both teams practice together, they will be allocated two wickets each.
According to a Cricbuzz report, open nets will be completely banned, the other team’s vacant wicket will not be used, and even if the match ends early, the opponent’s pitch will be prohibited.
Strictness on family and friends, entry into dressing room banned
The BCCI has also restricted access for players’ family and friends. Now, only authorized staff will be allowed in the dressing room and field of play. Family and friends will be able to watch practice from the hospitality area only, and travel with players during practice will not be permitted. This step has been taken to maintain a professional team environment and prevent distractions.
Team bus travel mandatory, private vehicles prohibited
In IPL 2026, every player will now be required to travel to and from the stadium using the team bus. Private vehicles have been discontinued. Teams may travel in two batches if necessary. Family members will travel in separate vehicles. This rule has been implemented specifically for logistics and security reasons.
Broadcast and presentation also under strict scrutiny
The BCCI has also tightened its control over player behavior and broadcast visibility during matches. Players will not hit the ball directly at the LED boards, and sitting in front of them is prohibited. Substitute players will have designated seating areas.
These rules have also changed in IPL 2026:
- Wearing orange and purple caps will be mandatory (at least for the first over).
- Floppy hats and sleeveless jerseys will be banned during post-match presentations.
- Violations will result in a warning, followed by a fine.
- Matchday protocol: Limited staff and strict checking.
- Only 12 support staff (including doctors) will be allowed on match day.
- Every staff member will be required to bring their accreditation card.
- Warning for the first offense, fine for the second offense.
Rules for changing jersey numbers:
If a player changes his jersey number, he must inform the BCCI at least 24 hours in advance. This will prevent distortion of broadcast and digital records.
