The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified the ball change rule for the second innings of Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. In an email to franchises, BCCI explained that teams can use multiple balls under specific conditions.

Key Points on Ball Change Rule:

1. Use of a Used Ball: The replacement ball must have some wear and tear. A brand-new ball is not allowed.
2. Mandatory Ball Change for Dew: If the fielding captain requests a ball change after the 10th over due to wetness or dew, umpires must approve it.
3. Umpires’ Discretion: Umpires can replace the ball if it becomes too wet, out of shape, damaged, or lost.
4. Single Dew-Based Request: The bowling team can request one ball change after the 10th over in evening matches, whether dew is visible or not.
5. Timing of Request: The captain must make the request at the end of an over, not during play.

Scenarios for Ball Change:

• Scenario 1: If umpires replace the ball before the 10th over due to wetness or damage, the fielding captain can still request a dew-based change after the 10th over. The umpires must approve it.
• Scenario 2: If a captain requests a ball change after the 11th over due to wetness, umpires will allow it. However, they will decide on any further requests.
• Scenario 3: If a captain requests a ball change in the 11th over due to damage and umpires approve, they must also grant a subsequent request due to dew after five overs.

Return of Saliva for Ball Maintenance

Starting in IPL 2025, bowlers can use saliva to shine the ball. The BCCI lifted the COVID-19-era ban after discussions with all ten team captains.

Expansion of DRS Scope

The Decision Review System (DRS) now includes height-based no-ball reviews and wide-ball reviews outside the off-stump. Hawk-Eye technology and ball-tracking will improve umpiring accuracy.

Team captains approved these changes during a meeting at the BCCI office in Mumbai.

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