BCCI Introduces New Regulations for IPL 2026

With the IPL 2026 season in mind, the BCCI has implemented significant changes. It has imposed strict restrictions on the movement of players seated on the bench during matches. Effective immediately, only the 16 selected players in the squad—comprising the Playing XI and the five Impact Substitutes—are permitted to enter the field to deliver drinks, bats, or messages. The BCCI has explicitly clarified that players not included in this list are strictly forbidden from stepping onto the field under any circumstances.

Similarly, the board has mandated that a maximum of five players wearing bibs are allowed to stand around the boundary perimeter, while the remaining players must remain confined to the dugout. Furthermore, movement within the area between the boundary line and the LED boards has also been prohibited. It appears these decisions were taken pursuant to Clauses 11.5.2 and 24.1.4 of the BCCI's Code of Conduct, following recent instances where certain teams were found to be in violation of the regulations. Meanwhile, with 13 matches of the IPL 2026 season already concluded, a crucial clash is scheduled to take place today between the Delhi Capitals and the Gujarat Titans.