IPL 2026: BCCI bans match-day practice in updated guidelines

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to run under stricter rules after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced fresh guidelines for all franchises.

The BCCI had released the guidelines on practice schedules earlier in the month, ruling that an IPL team cannot train on the pitch used by the opponent during its net session, as fresh nets will be mandatory. Additionally, if any team desires to practice under lights, then the duration of the practice match must not exceed three and a half hours. Furthermore, the teams will not be permitted to practice on the main square.

The BCCI had also stated that the home franchise will be responsible for conducting practice sessions for both teams, including logistical arrangements such as catering for teams, cricket facilities (in consultation with the State Association curator and IPL Venue Manager), medical services and security arrangements during the regular season.

In addition to those regulations, the BCCI has issued an addendum with new instructions, which bar practice sessions on match days. The new directives also regulate player travel protocols and access restrictions.

Listed below are the additional guidelines for IPL 2026 issued by the BCCI:

New Practice Rules

1. Teams will get two nets in the practice area and one of the side wickets on the main square to do range hitting. For the Mumbai venue, if both teams are practicing at the same time, teams will have two wickets each.
2. No open nets will be allowed.
3. If one of the teams finishes their practice early, the other team is not allowed to use the wickets for their practice.
4. No practice will be allowed on Match days.
5. Teams are not permitted to conduct fitness tests on the main square on match days.
6. Players are also required to travel to the stadium on the team bus and separately from their family members on practice days. Family and friends can go to the venue in separate vehicles.
7. No fitness test will take place on the Match Day on the main square.
8. On practice days (during pre-tournament & tournament), only accredited staff is allowed in the dressing room and on the field of play. Player family members and friends to travel in a different vehicle and watch team practice from the hospitality area.
9. For extended support staff (throw down specialist/net bowlers), a list needs to be submitted for approval to BCCI. Once approved, non- match day accreditations will be issued.
10. Players to use the team bus while coming for practice. Teams may travel in two batches.

Match Day Rules

1. It is mandatory for accredited staff to carry accreditation cards on match day. Failure to comply will result in a warning (first instance) and a financial penalty on the team (second instance).
2. Players practising in the nets to avoid hitting the LED advertising boards.
3. Players and support staff will not be allowed to sit in front of the LED boards. The sponsorship team will mark places across the FOP where substitutes carrying towels and water bottles can be seated.
4. Players must wear Orange and Purple Caps. In case players do not wear caps, they must wear them for the first two overs till broadcast captures it.
5. Floppies and sleeveless jerseys will not be allowed in the post-match presentation. Failure to comply will result in a warning (first instance) and a financial penalty (second instance).
6. Like IPL 2025 season, only 12 accredited support staff will be permitted, including the team doctor, on match days.

Jersey Number

1. In case of a change in jersey numbers, teams must inform 24 hours in advance as per clothing & equipment guidelines.