The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just around the corner, set to kick off on 22 March 2025. The first match will see defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) take on Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Eden Gardens. With only days left before the tournament begins, the excitement is building. To make this IPL season even more thrilling, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced several new IPL 2025 rules that will shape the gameplay. These changes were finalized following discussions with the captains of all 10 IPL teams on Thursday, 20 March 2025.
These IPL rule changes are designed to ensure fair play, improve the flow of the game, and make IPL 2025 an even more exciting competition for fans worldwide. Let’s take a look at the five key rule changes that will impact the 2025 season.
1. Saliva Use Is Now Permitted Again for Bowlers
One of the most anticipated rule changes for IPL 2025 is the return of saliva for bowlers. This practice had been banned during the COVID-19 pandemic as a health precaution. However, with the pandemic now under control, the BCCI has decided to reinstate this rule. The decision was made after consultations with the captains of all IPL teams, most of whom supported bringing back saliva use for bowlers.
Using saliva to shine the ball can help fast bowlers gain swing, making the contest between bat and ball more exciting. Fans of IPL 2025 can expect to see bowling performances enhanced by the return of this important tactic. This rule will undoubtedly lead to more thrilling bowling spells, especially from pace bowlers who rely on weather conditions and ball movement to outsmart batsmen.
2. Second-Ball Rule to Counter Dew in Night Matches
The second-ball rule is a new addition to IPL 2025 and is aimed at addressing the challenges posed by dew during night matches. Dew often makes the ball slippery, causing difficulty for bowlers in gripping the ball, which favors batsmen, particularly during the second innings of a run chase. To counter this, the umpires will assess the condition of the ball after the 11th over of the second innings. If the dew is significant, the bowling team will be allowed to use a new ball.
This rule will apply only to night matches, as dew conditions are more prominent in evening games. It is a much-needed change to ensure that bowlers have a fair opportunity to compete and that matches remain exciting and balanced. Fans can look forward to seeing a level playing field in IPL 2025 night matches, where dew previously tilted the balance in favor of the batsmen.
3. Impact Player Rule Continues
The Impact Player rule, introduced in the previous IPL season, will continue in IPL 2025. This rule allows teams to make a substitution during the match, creating more opportunities for tactical adjustments and providing uncapped players a chance to shine. The rule allows for greater flexibility, and teams can now substitute players in response to the match situation.
For instance, a team could bring in a bowler to take advantage of favorable conditions or send in a batter to exploit a weaker bowling attack. This change adds a new dimension to IPL 2025 strategy, offering captains more ways to manage their squads during the game. The continuation of this rule means that young players and uncapped talent will have more opportunities to make their mark on the tournament.
4. Use of DRS for High Wides and Off-Side Balls
Another exciting update for IPL 2025 is the expansion of the Decision Review System (DRS) to include challenges on high wides and balls outside the off-stump. Previously, DRS was only used to review dismissals, but now teams can challenge wide calls as well, particularly for deliveries that are deemed too high or outside the off-stump.
This change, supported by Hawk-Eye technology and ball tracking systems, will help ensure that umpires make more accurate decisions, reducing the likelihood of contentious calls. The ability to review wide deliveries gives teams another strategic tool during high-pressure moments, ensuring that umpiring decisions are as fair and consistent as possible. With these changes, IPL 2025 technology will enhance the accuracy of decisions, contributing to a smoother and more reliable match experience.
5. Demerit Points System for Slow Over Rates
One of the significant changes for captains in IPL 2025 is the introduction of a demerit points system for slow over rates. In past seasons, captains were banned if their team failed to maintain an acceptable over rate. Now, the BCCI will issue demerit points based on the severity of the violation, similar to the system used by the ICC in international cricket.
The demerit points will stay on a captain’s record for three years, providing an incentive to maintain a reasonable pace during matches. However, captains will only face suspensions in the most severe cases. This change aims to encourage captains to manage their teams more efficiently while avoiding unnecessary delays. The demerit points system will also ensure that slow over rates don’t disrupt the flow of the game and that IPL matches remain fast-paced and exciting.
Conclusion
As the IPL 2025 season draws near, these rule changes are sure to make the tournament even more thrilling for fans and fairer for players. The return of saliva for bowlers, the introduction of the second-ball rule, the continuation of the Impact Player rule, the expansion of DRS, and the demerit points system for slow over rates will all contribute to a dynamic and competitive environment.
For fans eagerly anticipating the IPL 2025 season, these changes will add more depth and excitement to the matches. Whether it’s the reintroduction of saliva, the strategic use of the Impact Player, or the ability to challenge wide calls with DRS, these new rules will shape the game in unexpected ways.
As IPL 2025 begins with the match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore, the excitement is palpable, and these changes promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats throughout the season. With the stage set for a thrilling tournament, it’s clear that IPL 2025 will offer a season packed with excitement, innovation, and fair play.
FAQs
Q1. Will bowlers be allowed to use saliva in IPL 2025?
Ans: Yes, bowlers will be allowed to use saliva again to shine the ball, as the ban imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic has been lifted.
Q2. What is the second-ball rule introduced in IPL 2025?
Ans: The second-ball rule allows the bowling team to use a new ball after the 11th over of the second innings if dew significantly affects grip during night matches.
Q3. Will the Impact Player rule continue in IPL 2025?
Ans: Yes, the Impact Player rule from the previous season will continue, allowing teams to replace a player during the match to maximize strategic advantages.
Q4. Can teams use DRS for wide and high deliveries in IPL 2025?
Ans: Yes, teams can now use the Decision Review System (DRS) to challenge high wides and deliveries outside the off stump, using Hawk-Eye technology for accuracy.
Q5. Will captains face bans for slow over rates in IPL 2025?
Ans: No, captains will not be banned for slow over rates. Instead, they will receive demerit points that stay on record for three years, with bans imposed only for severe violations.