The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has implemented fresh rules in the Indian Premier League (IPL), preventing all non-playing and benched
squad members from moving freely around the ground during matches. Only the 16 players listed in the official team sheet will now be allowed access to the field.
Under the updated match playing conditions, players who are not part of the selected 16 will not be allowed onto the field for any purpose, including carrying drinks, relaying messages, or bringing equipment such as bats. This move further tightens previously existing guidelines.
Limit On Bib-Wearing Players Near Boundary
The BCCI has also restricted movement around the boundary rope. Only a maximum of five players wearing bibs, either from the playing XI or outside it-can be present in that area at any time. These players typically assist with drinks or returning balls during play.
Team officials have indicated that the directive was communicated recently, clarifying that only players named in the matchday squad can carry drinks onto the field. Others must remain inside the dugout and are not permitted to move between the boundary and LED advertising boards.
An IPL squad generally consists of up to 25 players, with 16 selected for each match. The new restrictions build on existing clauses in the IPL match playing conditions, particularly 11.5.2 and 24.1.4.
Clause 11.5.2 permits drinks to be brought onto the field only under specific conditions and with umpire approval, while clause 24.1.4 requires non-playing squad members in the playing area to wear training bibs.
IPL 2026
Coming to IPL 2026, so far 14 matches have been played out of the total 74 games.The 15th match will see the Kolkata Knight Riders take on Lucknow Super Giants at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday.
