BCCI Strict guidelines for IPL teams: Before the start of IPL 2026 season, BCCI has taken a big step and sent a strict warning to all the 10 teams. The board has made new rules for practice sessions and warm-up matches, so that all teams get equal opportunity to prepare and the quality of the match pitch is maintained.

The special thing is that the time has also been fixed by BCCI for the practice matches to be held under floodlights. If any team does not follow this rule, it may face heavy consequences because BCCI will strictly follow these guidelines.

Three and a half hour rule for IPL 2026

Actually, BCCI's focus is on fairness and pitch protection. According to the rules, franchises can play a maximum of two practice matches only, but for this they will first have to take permission from BCCI. However, these matches will not be held on the match pitch.

If the practice match is held under floodlights, the entire match will not last more than three and a half hours. Its purpose is to avoid excessive wear and tear on the square.

Rules for use of nets and pitch

No team can use the nets or pitch used by the opposing team. Every team will be provided with completely fresh nets and pitches. Additionally, if one team is practicing first, the other team will not be able to use their nets or range-hitting wickets. Not only this, there will be no practice session or match on the main square four days before the first home match of any franchise.

If needed, alternative grounds can be provided free of cost. Along with this, if there is a conflict in the schedule between two teams, then the visiting team will get priority.

Who will benefit from these rules?

These rules have been brought so that no team can take advantage of the pitch condition and everyone gets an equal opportunity to prepare. Last season, there were complaints from some teams about excessive use of the pitch, which affected the quality of the matches. Now BCCI has taken strict steps to stop this. In such a situation, the visiting team will get a chance to equalize and the home team will not be able to take much advantage of the home conditions.