BCCI Takes a Big Step for IPL 2025, Restricts Franchises to Ensure Sustainability and Fair Play
As the stage is set for another electrifying season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a significant step to ensure the success and sustainability of the tournament. In a move aimed at protecting the playing surfaces at venues and preventing excessive wear and tear, the BCCI has introduced new regulations restricting franchises to seven practice sessions before the first match, with a maximum of two warm-up games or center wicket sessions.
What’s in for the Franchises?
In a bid to maintain top-quality pitches for IPL 2025, the BCCI has laid down a set of rules that will be applicable to all franchises. According to the guidelines, each franchise will be allowed to conduct a maximum of seven practice sessions, with a duration of three hours under floodlights. Additionally, the BCCI has permitted up to two sessions to be practice matches or open nets on side wickets.
A Look at the New Regulations
The BCCI’s new regulations have been designed to strike a balance between team preparation and pitch preservation. Here are the key takeaways:
- Seven practice sessions: Franchises will be permitted to conduct a maximum of seven practice sessions, with a duration of three hours under floodlights.
- Two warm-up games or center wicket sessions: Each team will be allowed to conduct a maximum of two warm-up games or center wicket sessions.
- Conflict Resolution Mechanism: A conflict resolution mechanism will be in place to resolve any differences that may arise between teams regarding practice session timings.
- Restricted Access: Only players, support staff, and net bowlers will be allowed access to the ground during practice sessions.
- Designated Areas for Practice: Teams will have designated areas for range hitting, with one wicket prepared at the extreme edge on both sides of the main square.
- No Open Nets: Open nets will be prohibited, and teams will need to adhere to their allotted session times.
A First-Hand Look at the Strategy
The BCCI’s decision to restrict franchises to seven practice sessions before the first match is a significant step towards ensuring the sustainability of the IPL. By limiting the number of practice sessions, the BCCI is aiming to prevent excessive wear and tear on the playing surfaces, which can lead to uneven wickets and poor playing conditions.
What’s the Impact on the Teams?
The new regulations may lead to some interesting scenarios, particularly when multiple teams are vying for practice time at the same venue. To address this, the BCCI has introduced a conflict resolution mechanism, where team managers can negotiate and come to a mutually agreed-upon solution. If a resolution cannot be reached, the BCCI will assign two-hour slots to each team, ensuring fair practice conditions and exclusive access to the ground.
In Conclusion
The BCCI’s move to restrict franchises to seven practice sessions before the first match is a significant step towards ensuring the success and sustainability of the IPL. By implementing these new regulations, the BCCI is aiming to strike a balance between team preparation and pitch preservation, ultimately providing a better experience for players and fans alike. With the tournament just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how these new regulations shape the outcome of the season.
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