IPL 2026: BCCI Enforces New Regulations for Players and Support Staff

Introduction to IPL 2026

The upcoming 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to commence on March 28, 2026, featuring a match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Ahead of the tournament's start, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued significant guidelines for players and support staff, focusing on training protocols and conduct during matches.

New Travel and Conduct Guidelines

As reported by Cricbuzz, the BCCI has mandated that players must use the team bus for travel on match days, prohibiting the use of personal vehicles. Additionally, family members are not permitted to accompany players on the team bus and must arrange their own transportation to the stadium. This follows a previous directive limiting family interactions during international tours to a maximum of 45 days.

While most players typically travel via the team bus, there have been instances of them using personal vehicles, particularly in their hometowns. On practice days, only accredited players and support staff are allowed on the field, with family members restricted to designated hospitality areas.

Regulations for Practice Sessions

BCCI Implements Strict Practice Rules

The BCCI has also prohibited practice sessions on match days to maintain the pitch's condition. Specific areas will be allocated for practice, with each team generally receiving two nets and one side wicket on the main square. However, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, if both teams practice simultaneously, they will each have access to two wickets.

Clear guidelines dictate the usage of these practice areas. For example, if one team completes their training early, the other team cannot utilize the vacant wickets for additional practice.