The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a stringent set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the upcoming IPL 2025 season, aiming to bring a more professional and disciplined approach to the popular T20 league.
The new rules, which apply to all 10 IPL franchises, cover everything from travel protocols to dressing room access, player dress codes, and even how batters handle advertising boards. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key changes, including expert insights and what they mean for players and teams.
Key SOPs for IPL 2025: What Players and Teams Must Follow
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1. No Family Allowed in Dressing Rooms
In a move that emphasizes a more focused team environment, players’ families and friends will no longer be allowed inside dressing rooms — not even on practice days.
- ✅ Only accredited team staff can enter dressing rooms.
- ✅ Family and friends can watch practice sessions from hospitality areas.
- ✅ This rule aims to limit distractions and replicate the professionalism seen in international cricket.
💬 Expert Insight:
Cricket analyst and former IPL coach Sanjay Bangar explains:
“This shift aligns with global best practices in professional leagues. It’s designed to create a performance-focused environment, especially after India’s underwhelming performances in recent overseas tours.”
2. Mandatory Team Bus Travel
Players must travel to matches and practice sessions on the team bus. Teams can split into two batches if needed, but personal travel arrangements will no longer be permitted.
- 🚍 Private vehicles are not allowed for official team movements.
- 🚍 Family members and friends can travel separately.
💬 Expert Insight:
“The idea is to build stronger team bonding and ensure uniform security measures. It’s common in international cricket, and the BCCI is extending the same professionalism to IPL,” says noted sports journalist Ayaz Memon.
3. Strict Dress Code at Post-Match Presentations
Players will face fines and warnings if they appear at post-match presentations wearing:
- ❌ Loose-fitting clothes (floppies).
- ❌ Sleeveless jerseys.
- ⚠️ First violation: Warning issued.
- 💸 Second violation: Financial penalty on the team.
💬 Expert Insight:
“The IPL is a global broadcast product, and appearance standards matter. This rule reinforces IPL’s brand image and professionalism,” remarks IPL broadcaster and commentator Harsha Bhogle.
4. Accreditation Card Rule – No Exceptions
All players, staff, and officials must carry their accreditation cards on match days.
- 🛑 Forgetting the card leads to:
- First instance: Warning
- Second instance: Monetary fine imposed on the team
💬 Expert Insight:
“Security and logistics are critical at IPL venues, and accreditation is non-negotiable. This rule ensures only authorized personnel have access,” notes security consultant and former BCCI official Neeraj Kumar.
5. Ban on Hitting Advertising LED Boards
In a unique and specific guideline, batters have been asked to avoid hitting balls at the advertising LED boards around the boundary.
- ⚠️ Despite dedicated hitting nets, some players intentionally hit towards the boards.
- ⚠️ Teams have been urged to respect sponsor assets.
6. Designated Seating for Substitutes & Support Staff
To protect sponsorship areas, the BCCI will mark designated zones around the field where:
- ✅ Substitutes carrying water and towels can sit.
- ✅ Other support staff can sit.
- 🛑 Sitting directly in front of sponsor-branded LED boards is banned.
Why These Changes Matter for IPL 2025
The BCCI’s focus on discipline and professionalism stems from a broader effort to improve India’s overall cricket culture, following the team’s poor performance in Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. By introducing these rigorous SOPs, the BCCI hopes to:
- ✅ Strengthen team culture and bonding.
- ✅ Reduce unnecessary distractions.
- ✅ Enhance IPL’s global brand image.
- ✅ Ensure security and operational efficiency.
IPL 2025 Dates & What to Expect
- 📅 IPL 2025 will run from March 22 to May 25.
- 🔥 Expect a tighter, more professional environment across all teams.
- 🎯 Teams will need to strike a balance between fun and discipline under these new guidelines.
Final Thoughts
With less than a month to go until IPL 2025, these new SOPs signal a clear shift toward a more corporate, controlled, and performance-driven league environment. Fans and pundits will be watching closely to see if these changes improve on-field performance and off-field professionalism.
