Ahead of the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced significant rule changes. These updates were finalized after discussions with captains, coaches, and managers of all 10 IPL teams at a meeting held on March 20 at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai.
The changes focus on improving the fairness of the game and addressing key challenges faced in previous IPL seasons.
READ MORE: IPL 2025: Full Schedule, Match Timings, Venues, and Live Streaming Details
Four Major Rule Changes in IPL 2025
1. Saliva Can Be Used to Shine the Ball
BCCI has lifted the ban on using saliva to shine the ball, which was previously prohibited due to COVID-19 safety measures.
Key Points:
- Bowlers will be allowed to apply saliva on the ball to maintain its shine.
- This decision follows consultations with all IPL franchises.
Why the Change?
The ban had limited bowlers’ ability to generate swing, especially in longer spells. With saliva use restored, fast bowlers can now regain better control over the ball, enhancing competition between bat and ball.
2. Wet Ball Replacement to Counter Dew
To address the dew factor that affects evening matches, IPL 2025 introduces a new rule allowing the bowling team to request a ball change once after the 10th over.
Key Points:
- The bowling captain can request a mandatory ball change after the 10th over, regardless of visible dew.
- Umpires will replace the ball with another one of similar wear and tear.
- The bowling team does not get to choose the replacement ball.
- If the ball becomes too wet before the 10th over, umpires have the authority to change it at their discretion.
Why the Change?
Dew makes it difficult for bowlers to grip and control the ball, often putting the team bowling second at a disadvantage. This rule aims to create a more balanced contest between batters and bowlers.
3. New Code of Conduct with Demerit Points System
A new Code of Conduct will take effect from IPL 2025, introducing a demerit points system for disciplinary violations.
Key Points:
- Players will receive demerit points for offenses committed during matches.
- If a player accumulates a certain number of demerit points, they could face suspension.
- These points will remain valid for 36 months from the date of the violation.
Why the Change?
The new system aims to enforce discipline and prevent repeated violations, ensuring that players and teams adhere to the highest standards of conduct.
4. Expanded Decision Review System (DRS) Scope
IPL 2025 will introduce additional review options under the Decision Review System (DRS) to improve umpiring accuracy.
Key Points:
- Players can now review height-based no-ball calls.
- Wide balls outside the off-stump can also be reviewed.
- Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking technology will be used to assist umpires in decision-making.
Why the Change?
There have been several controversial wide-ball and no-ball calls in past IPL seasons. Expanding DRS helps eliminate errors and ensures fairer outcomes.
Impact of These Changes on IPL 2025
The latest rule modifications are designed to make IPL 2025 more competitive and fair. By reintroducing saliva use, allowing ball replacements due to dew, strengthening disciplinary measures, and improving DRS accuracy, BCCI aims to enhance the overall quality of the tournament.
These changes will likely lead to:
- A more balanced contest between bat and ball.
- Better umpiring decisions with an expanded DRS system.
- Improved player discipline with stricter Code of Conduct enforcement.
Cricket fans can expect a more refined and exciting IPL season with these updates in place
