The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced some new guidelines for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. These rules aim to maintain the quality of the pitch, ensure fair play, maintain a tidy appearance on the pitch and bring more discipline to how teams prepare and behave during a high-pressure tournament.
Let’s take a clear look at the key changes that every franchise, player and support staff must follow this year.
Practice is not allowed on game days
One of the biggest changes is the complete ban on any training sessions or fitness tests on the main pitch on match days. Teams can no longer squeeze in last-minute nets and practices once a match is set. This move is intended to protect the playing surface and create a level playing field for all sides.
For regular practice sessions (on non-match days), each team will receive two nets on the designated practice area and one side goal on the main field for hitting distance. Special arrangements at venues such as the Wankhede Stadium ensure that both teams get their seats if they train at the same time. An open net is not permitted and teams may not use or share wickets allocated to an opponent, even if one side finishes early.
Also READ: Punjab Kings star Shreyas Iyer spotted watching ‘Dhurandhar 2’ ahead of IPL 2026.
Support staff limits and approvals
Only 12 accredited support staff members (including the team doctor) will be allowed on game days. For additional help, such as bowling specialists or net bowlers, franchises must submit a list in advance for BCCI approval. On practice days, only accredited personnel may enter the locker room or exit the field of play.
Travel and family rules
Players must travel to the stadium for training in the official team bus (teams may be split into two groups if necessary). Family members and friends must use separate vehicles and may only watch from the hospitality area and will not be allowed near the practice areas.
Dress code and presentation guidelines
Players are encouraged to dress in order to keep the broadcast and on-field presentation clean Orange hat and purple hat during matches. If the player does not wear a hat, he must wear it at least the first two times before the broadcaster takes the shot.
Sleeveless jerseys and flip flops (slippers) are strictly prohibited during post-match presentations. A first offense will result in a warning and a second offense will result in a financial penalty.
Other important do’s and don’ts
- Players and support staff must not sit in front of the LED boards. Designated seating areas with towels and water bottles will be marked for substitutes.
- Teams are requested not to hit the ball on the LED boards, although batting nets will be provided.
- Any change in a player’s jersey number must be notified to BCCI at least 24 hours in advance.
- All PMOA-accredited personnel must carry accreditation cards on match days; the first violator gets a warning, the second gets a fine.
Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar slams overseas players for late arrivals ahead of IPL 2026
