IPL 2025 Rule Change: Controversy Erupts Over Extended Match Time

The IPL 2025 season has seen a significant rule change, allowing an extra 120 minutes for the completion of league matches. This decision, aimed at addressing rain interruptions, has sparked controversy among franchises, especially the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who feel aggrieved by the timing of the amendment. KKR's CEO expressed disappointment over a rainout that dashed their playoff hopes, questioning the consistency of rule applications. Other franchises share similar concerns, fearing that such mid-season changes could disrupt the competitive balance of the league. As the tournament progresses, the implications of this decision loom large, raising critical questions about the integrity of one of cricket's most followed leagues.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2025, 09:11 IST

IPL Governing Council Adjusts Match Conditions

The IPL Governing Council has made significant changes for the 2025 season, allowing an extra 120 minutes to finish the remaining nine league matches. This adjustment aims to mitigate interruptions caused by early monsoon rains, extending the previous one-hour delay limit to two hours, a provision that was earlier reserved for playoff matches only.

Franchise Reactions to the New Rule

This decision has sparked frustration among several franchises, notably the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). KKR has lodged a complaint with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), arguing that such a rule should have been implemented when the season resumed on May 17.

Impact of Rain on KKR's Performance

KKR's disappointment stems from a rainout against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), where no play occurred. This no-result has severely impacted the defending champions' chances of reaching the playoffs. KKR's CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed his dissatisfaction after receiving an email from IPL COO Hemang Amin, which informed all franchises about the new conditions and justified the change due to unfavorable weather forecasts.

Concerns Over Consistency in Rule Application

Mysore noted that while mid-season rule adjustments might be necessary, there should be greater consistency in their application. He pointed out that the rain forecast for the KKR vs RCB match was evident, and the additional time could have allowed for at least a five-over match. He emphasized that the washout effectively ended KKR's playoff aspirations and criticized the inconsistency of such decisions in a prestigious tournament.

Wider Franchise Concerns

KKR is not alone in its concerns; other franchises have also voiced apprehensions regarding the timing of this rule change. They worry that mid-season alterations could set a troubling precedent and disrupt the competitive balance of the league.

Looking Ahead

As the tournament progresses, the implications of this rule change continue to cast a shadow, raising questions about the consistency of one of the world's most popular leagues.