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No Match-Day Practice? BCCI Leaves IPL Teams Scrambling With New Strict Tournament Guidelines Ahead Of 2026 Season
24htopnews | March 24, 2026 5:09 PM CST

The BCCI has banned practice sessions on IPL match days to protect pitch quality and enforce fairness. Teams can train only on designated non-match days, with restricted access to nets and wickets. New guidelines also limit staff, restrict dressing room access, and tighten player conduct, aiming for a more professional, controlled tournament environment.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a key change to its Indian Premier League guidelines, banning practice sessions on match days. The rule, set to be implemented from the upcoming season, is designed to preserve pitch conditions and ensure a more structured match-day environment across venues.

Under the updated regulations, teams will not be allowed to train or conduct fitness drills on the main square on the day of a match. This marks a shift from previous seasons, where light training sessions were sometimes permitted. The decision emphasizes maintaining the quality of playing surfaces and minimizing unnecessary wear before games.

The BCCI has also standardized practice arrangements for non-match days. Each team will be allocated two nets in designated practice areas along with a side wicket on the main square for range-hitting. Even if practice facilities remain unused, teams are not allowed to access wickets assigned to their opponents, ensuring fairness and equal usage.

Additional guidelines to be followed


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