New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is gearing up to operate under a more stringent set of rules as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled new regulations aimed at enhancing team discipline and logistics throughout the tournament.

As reported by Cricbuzz, these revised guidelines expand upon earlier instructions released on March 12. The emphasis is now on tighter oversight regarding player movements, access protocols, and conduct on match days.

The updated regulations were communicated to franchises on Tuesday, just ahead of the season opener on March 28, where the reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).

A major element of this new framework is the complete prohibition of practice sessions on match days.

Teams are required to restrict all preparations to designated nets during approved time slots. Open practices are no longer permissible, and franchises are barred from utilizing pitches allocated to other teams, even if they become available beforehand.

Each team will have access to two nets and one side wicket on the main square.

For venues like Mumbai, special arrangements allow for two wickets per team for simultaneous practice sessions.

In addition, fitness drills and tests will not be permitted on match days, and only players along with authorized staff can enter practice areas. Family members are restricted to hospitality zones.

The BCCI has reinforced regulations concerning team movement and the roles of support staff. Players are required to travel to practice sessions using the team bus, and family members are not allowed to accompany them. Franchises must submit names of net bowlers and throwdown specialists for board approval.

On match days, all support staff must carry accreditation cards at all times, with penalties imposed for any breaches of these rules.

Additional guidelines restrict players from hitting LED advertising boards during practice. Players are also prohibited from sitting in front of these boards, with designated seating arrangements established for substitutes.

The updated regulations also address broadcast and presentation standards. Holders of the Orange Cap and Purple Cap are required to wear their caps on match days, or at least during the opening overs to maintain visibility for broadcasts.

Players must adhere to a strict dress code during post-match presentations. Sleeveless jerseys and floppy hats are prohibited, with penalties for non-compliance.

As per previous guidelines, only 12 support staff members, including team doctors, will be permitted in designated match-day areas. Franchises are required to inform the BCCI at least 24 hours in advance if they wish to change jersey numbers.