IPL: Captains won't face match bans for slow over-rates
What's the story
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced significant changes to the playing conditions for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. One of the key modifications is that captains will no longer receive match bans for slow over-rate offenses. Instead, they will be penalized with demerit points, with a ban imposed only in extreme cases. This decision was conveyed during a recent meeting at the BCCI office in Mumbai. Here's more.
Penalty details
New demerit point system for captains
Much like the ICC's, the new system will assign demerit points to the captain depending on how severe the offense is. These points will remain valid for three years. "The captain will be penalized with demerit points but will not face a match ban for slow over-rate," an internal memo reviewed by Cricbuzz stated.
Penalty system
Demerit points and potential penalties
As per the new rules, a Level 1 offense will attract a penalty of 25-75% match fees and demerit points. A Level 2 offense, if considered serious, will attract four demerit points. "For every four demerit points accumulated, the match referee can impose a penalty either in the form of a 100% fine or additional demerit points," an insider revealed as per Cricbuzz.
Additional changes
Impact Player rule and DRS clause amendments
In addition to the demerit point system, the BCCI has announced that the Impact Player Rule will be reviewed after the 2027 IPL edition. Until then, teams can continue making one substitution per match. Further, changes have also been made to the Decision Review System (DRS) clause in playing conditions, which now includes referrals for height wides and those outside off-stump.