IPL 2025: Three New Rules Introduced by BCCI for the 18th Edition of the Indian Premier League

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for its 18th edition, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a set of new rules that will add a fresh twist to the upcoming season.

 With 10 franchises ready to compete for the coveted IPL trophy, these changes aim to adjust some aspects of the game. While some modifications have already been confirmed, there have been rumors about other potential alterations, including player replacements for a portion of the season.

Ahead of the season-opener between the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Kolkata, here are the three major rule changes that will be implemented this season:

1. Saliva Ban Lifted:

After a hiatus since the COVID-19 pandemic, bowlers will now be allowed to use saliva to shine the ball. This significant change came after a majority of IPL captains voted in favor of lifting the ban during a meeting in Mumbai. 

While the International Cricket Council (ICC) had made the saliva ban permanent in 2022, the IPL operates under its own set of regulations, and this decision could potentially influence the global cricketing landscape.

2. ‘Conditional’ Second New Ball in the Second Innings:

In an effort to manage the dew factor that often influences evening matches, the IPL will introduce a second fresh ball in the second innings, starting from the 11th over. 

However, this rule will only apply to evening matches where the dew is deemed significant by the on-field umpires. Afternoon games will not be affected by this change, and the traditional ball usage will continue.

3. DRS for Wides:

In a first, the Decision Review System (DRS) will now be used for adjudicating wide deliveries, including height and off-side wides. This will ensure fairer decision-making during matches, while the leg-side wides will still be called by the on-field umpire. 

This expansion of the DRS system aims to improve accuracy and consistency in the ruling of wides.

In addition to these changes, the Impact Player rule will continue this season, allowing franchises to field 12 players instead of the traditional 11. While the rule faced criticism last year for potentially hindering the development of all-rounders, the BCCI has decided to retain it for the 2025 season.

With these updates, the 18th edition of the IPL promises to bring exciting new dynamics to the game as teams prepare for an action-packed season.