No Practice on Match Days: BCCI Releases IPL 2026 Guidelines

BCCI announced new IPL 2026 guidelines ahead of the March 28 start in Bengaluru, banning match-day practice, updating Wankhede practice rules and revising team travel protocols.

The BCCI has released an updated set of IPL 2026 rules and guidelines. Teams cannot hold practice sessions on match days. The board confirms this in its latest addendum.

At Wankhede Stadium, each team gets 2 practice wickets on both sides of the main square. Teams cannot use the opposition’s assigned strips. The rule on fitness tests remains unchanged this season. Players cannot conduct such drills on the main square on match days.

Travel rules also stay strict for squads. Players must use the team bus during practice days. Family members and friends must travel separately.

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Full Set of BCCI’s IPL 2026 Rules and Guidelines

Practice Guidelines

• Each team gets 2 nets and 1 side wicket for range hitting
• In Mumbai, both teams get 2 wickets each if practicing together
• Open nets are not allowed
• One team cannot use wickets after the other finishes early
• Practice is not allowed on match days
• Fitness tests are not allowed on match days on the main square

Access and Travel Rules

• Only accredited staff can enter dressing rooms and field areas
• Family and friends must use separate vehicles
• They can watch practice from the hospitality areas
• Teams must submit the names of net bowlers and throwdown staff for approval
• Approved staff receive non-match day access cards
• Players must travel by team bus for practice
• Teams can travel in two batches
• The venue Manager handles all practice-related requests

Match Day Rules

• Staff must carry an accreditation card. First miss gets a warning, second leads to a fine
• Players should avoid hitting the LED boards
• No sitting in front of the LED boards
• Designated seating will be marked for substitutes

Clothing Rules

• Players should wear orange and purple caps
• No sleeveless jerseys or floppies during presentations. First violation gets a warning, second brings a fine

Support Staff Limit

• Only 12 support staff are allowed on match days, including the doctor.

Jersey number rule

• Inform of any number change at least 24 hours in advance.