New IPL Rules | IPL 2024 New Rules No Dressing Room Access for Family & Mandatory Team Bus Travel

New IPL Rules: Stricter Dressing Room Access and Mandatory Team Bus Travel

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced new regulations for the Indian Premier League (IPL), aiming to maintain discipline and streamline operations. Among the major changes, family members and friends of players will no longer be allowed in the dressing room, even during practice sessions. Additionally, all players must now mandatorily travel by the team bus for practices and matches, a regulation already enforced at the international level.

No More Family Access in the Dressing Room

The BCCI has enforced a strict policy restricting the entry of family members and friends into the dressing room. This rule applies not only on match days but also during practice sessions, ensuring that only accredited staff have access. The revised guideline states that while family members can accompany players to practice venues, they must remain in designated hospitality areas. This move aims to minimize distractions and maintain a professional environment within the team’s setup.

Extended support staff such as net bowlers and throw-down specialists must also receive prior approval from the BCCI before being granted access to team facilities. Accreditation will be issued only for non-match days, reinforcing the board’s commitment to structuring and limiting access.

Mandatory Team Bus Travel for Players

One of the most notable new rules is the requirement for players to travel exclusively by the team bus for practice sessions and match days. Teams are allowed to split into two batches if needed, but individual transport options are no longer permitted. The BCCI has emphasized that this rule is already in place for Team India during international fixtures, and its enforcement in the IPL aligns with maintaining uniformity and discipline across formats.

This directive ensures better security, coordination, and team bonding, reducing unnecessary logistical complications. It also prevents any unfair advantages that players might gain by arriving at practice sessions at different times through personal arrangements.

Practice Session Regulations Tightened

The BCCI has made significant changes to practice session rules, focusing on better utilization of practice areas. Each team will be allocated specific nets and a designated side wicket for range-hitting sessions. Open nets will not be permitted, and if a team finishes its session early, the other team cannot take over those wickets for additional practice. These regulations aim to bring uniformity and prevent extended use of facilities by any team.

Moreover, teams are not allowed to conduct fitness tests on the main square on match days. This rule is in place to ensure that the main pitch remains in prime condition for official play, rather than being subject to last-minute assessments of players’ fitness.

Match Day Conduct and Attire Guidelines

The BCCI has introduced a series of guidelines for match days to maintain discipline and professionalism. PMOA-accredited staff members must carry their accreditation at all times. Failure to do so will result in a warning for the first offense, followed by financial penalties for repeated violations.

Players are also required to respect sponsorship and broadcast guidelines, such as wearing the Orange and Purple Caps at least for the first two overs to ensure visibility in broadcasts. Additionally, players and support staff are prohibited from sitting directly in front of LED boards, which are crucial for sponsorship visibility.

Another major regulation relates to attire during the post-match presentation ceremonies. Players must wear proper jerseys with sleeves, and sleeveless jerseys or floppies are not permitted. A first-time violation will result in a warning, while repeated offenses will lead to monetary fines.

Limited Support Staff and Accreditation Rules

In continuation of previous policies, only 12 accredited support staff members, including the team doctor, will be allowed on match days. This restriction ensures that only essential personnel are present, limiting unnecessary congestion in restricted areas.

Additionally, if a player intends to change their jersey number, the BCCI must be informed at least 24 hours in advance. This regulation is part of the broader clothing and equipment guidelines, which ensure uniformity and adherence to branding regulations.

Captains’ Meeting Scheduled Before IPL 2024

To further elaborate on these rules and ensure smooth compliance, the BCCI has scheduled an in-person meeting with all team captains on March 20 at the Cricket Centre in Mumbai. Traditionally, these meetings take place in the host city of the inaugural match, but this year, the board has opted for a centralized discussion. The IPL 2024 season is set to kick off on March 22 in Kolkata.

Conclusion: BCCI’s Effort to Enforce Discipline and Professionalism

With these stringent new rules, the BCCI aims to enhance the professionalism and discipline within the IPL. The restrictions on family access to dressing rooms, mandatory team bus travel, structured practice regulations, and match day conduct policies all indicate the board’s commitment to improving the operational efficiency of the tournament. These measures are also expected to maintain fair play and ensure a seamless experience for teams, sponsors, and fans alike.