The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a fresh directive aimed at tightening discipline and reducing unnecessary movement around the field during Indian Premier League matches. Under the new rule, only the 16 players listed on the official team sheet will be permitted access to the field of play during a match.
This means players outside the designated 16 will no longer be allowed near the boundary ropes or in the area between the advertising boards and the field. They must remain in the dugout throughout the match and cannot step out to carry drinks, relay tactical messages, or deliver equipment such as bats.
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Additionally, the BCCI has placed a strict limit on the number of players allowed around the boundary line. Only five bib-wearing players can occupy that zone at any one time. These five may be chosen from the named 16 or from the rest of the squad, but the number cannot exceed five.
The decision marks a significant operational shift for franchises, who traditionally use larger support groups around the boundary during games. Most IPL squads consist of around 25 players, many of whom previously assisted with drinks, strategy communication, and logistical support during matches.
The BCCI’s latest move expands on clauses already present in the IPL Match Playing Conditions. Clause 11.5.2 regulates when drinks can be brought onto the field and requires umpire approval in most cases, while Clause 24.1.4 mandates that non-playing squad members wear bibs while in the playing area.
By issuing this clarification, the BCCI has effectively removed ambiguity surrounding who can enter the field zone during matches. While the board has not officially stated the reason behind the change, the move is widely seen as an effort to improve discipline, reduce congestion near the boundary, and control in-game communication more strictly.
