BCCI has released a comprehensive set of new rules for IPL 2026, reshaping how teams prepare, travel, and operate on match days. The most significant change bans all practice sessions on match days to protect pitch quality and ensure fair conditions across venues.
The board has also introduced strict protocols around net access, player movement, staff accreditation, and broadcast requirements. All team managers received these guidelines via an official note ahead of the tournament opener on March 28 in Bengaluru.
No Practice or Fitness Tests Allowed on Match Days
The headline rule prohibits any practice session on the main square during match days. Teams cannot conduct fitness tests on the playing surface either. This move aims to reduce wear on match pitches and eliminate any chance of last-minute team-specific adjustments.
The BCCI wants standardised conditions for both sides on every game day across all IPL venues.
Key Practice Rules for IPL 2026
- Each team gets two practice nets and one side wicket for range hitting
- At Wankhede Stadium, teams sharing a session get two nets each
- No open nets allowed at any venue
- If one team finishes early, the opposition cannot use their nets under any circumstances
- All practice and fitness test requests must go through the venue manager
Travel, Access, and Dressing Room Restrictions
Players must travel to practice via the team bus. Two batch trips are allowed if needed. Friends and family can attend, but cannot travel in team vehicles. They can only watch from the hospitality area.
Only accredited officials can enter dressing rooms and step onto the playing field. Teams must get BCCI approval for throwdown specialists and net bowlers, who will receive non-match-day accreditation only.
Match Day Conduct and Broadcast Rules
The BCCI has laid down clear conduct expectations for players and support staff during matches.
- Every accredited person must carry their accreditation card at all times. A first offence draws a warning, and a second results in a fine
- Players must avoid hitting balls at the LED boards and cannot sit in front of them
- Orange and Purple Cap holders must wear their caps for at least the first two overs of each match for broadcast purposes
- Players cannot wear floppies or sleeveless jerseys during presentations. A warning comes first, and a fine follows on the second offence
- Only 12 support staff members, including the team doctor, can be on the ground
- Teams must inform the BCCI at least 24 hours before any jersey number changes
The new guidelines signal the BCCI’s push for tighter operational control across all aspects of IPL 2026. With the tournament starting in four days, franchises must quickly adapt to these updated protocols.
