BCCI Implements New Training Guidelines for IPL Teams

The BCCI has introduced new training regulations for IPL teams, focusing on pitch usage and practice match protocols. Teams must now adhere to strict guidelines regarding practice sessions, ensuring that no two teams use the same pitch consecutively. This initiative aims to maintain the quality of the playing surface and enhance the overall competition. Key points include restrictions on practice matches and the provision of alternative practice grounds. These changes are set to impact how teams prepare for the upcoming IPL season, ensuring a fair and competitive environment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 13, 2026, 12:52 IST

New Training Regulations for IPL Franchises

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued strict guidelines to all ten franchises, emphasizing that an IPL team is prohibited from practicing on the same pitch used by an opposing team during their net sessions, as reported by Cricbuzz. These new regulations, released ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2026), mandate that teams practicing consecutively must be assigned different and fresh pitches. Each team is to receive new nets for their designated practice times. In cases where teams have overlapping practice sessions, the first team is not allowed to utilize the nets of the second team, including for throw-downs. Additionally, if a team concludes its practice early, the subsequent team cannot access their range-hitting wicket.

Furthermore, if a team wishes to conduct a practice match under lights, the match duration is capped at three and a half hours, according to the BCCI's directive. Teams are allowed to hold a maximum of two practice matches, but they must inform the BCCI beforehand, and these matches cannot take place on the field designated for the actual game.

To ensure proper pitch preparation for the season, no practice sessions or matches are permitted on the main square in the four days leading up to a franchise's first home match. During this time, if requested, the State Association is required to provide an alternative practice ground to the franchise at no charge. Each team will have access to two practice nets and one net on the main square for range hitting. In case of scheduling conflicts, the BCCI will prioritize the visiting team. While the home team has the first choice for preferred practice sessions, the away team's needs will also be considered, especially if they played a match the previous day and need to account for travel arrangements.