The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League is all set to start on March 28, 2026. The opening match of the season will see defending champions take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Before the IPL starts, the BCCI has issued strict directives to all ten franchises, which are expected to play a critical role throughout the tournament.
One of the key highlights in the revised instructions is that no practice sessions will be allowed on match days. On the other hand, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai made special arrangements with designated practice strips on either side of the main square. As per business standards, teams are allowed to use only their allotted areas. Plus, if you are sharing practice wickets with the opposition, it’s prohibited.
Guidelines for Players’ Families
The board has issued clear guidelines for the players’ families during the Indian Premier League 2026. As per Sports NDTV, the teams are instructed to travel to the ground only via the team bus. In addition, friends and families are not allowed to enter the field of play during the practice sessions and may watch practice only from designated hospitality areas.
Players are also instructed to strictly follow the dress code requirements. The orange and purple caps must be worn as instructed during the post-match presentation ceremonies.
Also Read: IPL vs PSL Row Heats Up: PCB Warns Legal Action as Players Switch to IPL 2026
Practice Session Guidelines
As per the updated guidelines of the BCCI:
- The teams will get two nets in the practice area and one of the side wickets on the main square.
- No open nets are allowed.
- No practice is allowed on match days.
- If the team has this practice completely early, then the other team is not allowed to use their wicket to practice on.
- Players are expected to use the team bus while coming to practice. Also, teams may travel in two batches.
- For any update or query related to practice, fitness test on match days, the venue managers will be the point of contact.
- If the team wants an extra throw-down specialist or net bowlers, they must submit the list beforehand for approval to the BCCI. If approved, non-match day official approval will be issued for the same.
- On practice days, only approved staff are allowed in the dressing room and on the field to play. Families of players are instructed to travel in different vehicles and can watch team practice from the hospitality area.
Also Read: IPL 2026 Fan Parks Schedule: 15 Cities, Dates, Venues & What Fans Can Expect
Jersey Number Guidelines
If the player wants to change their jersey number, they are instructed to inform 24 hours in advance as per clothing and equipment guidelines.
Match Day Guidelines
- On match day, only 12 approved staff will be allowed, which includes the team of doctors.
- After the match, in post-match ceremonies, players are not allowed to wear floppies and sleeveless jerseys. If they do so, it would result in a warning the first time. If repeated, there will be a financial penalty.
- As per business standards, players are instructed to wear purple and orange caps. If they do not want to wear, the instructions say they must wear for the two overs as broadcast captures it.
- It is compulsory for approved staff to bring their approval on match day. If they fail to bring it for the first time, a warning will be issued. On the second instance, a monetary fine will be issued to the teams.
- After hitting nets, players keep hitting on the LED boards. Instructors request the team to follow the rules.
Also Read: BCCI Issues Strict IPL 2026 Guidelines: Fresh Nets for Teams, No Practice on Rival’s Pitch
IPL 2026 Guidelines: Do’s & Don’ts
Here the do’s and don’ts of the IPL 2026 updated Guidelines:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Travel only with the team bus (match or practice). | Do not use private vehicles for travel. |
| Follow the official stress code (wear purple or orange caps). | Do not wear floppy hats and sleeveless jerseys in post match ceremonies. |
| Inform 24 in advance for jersey number changes. | Avoid last minute jersey number changes. |
| Allow only approved staff in the dressing room and field. | Do not allow family members or unauthorized staff. |
| Use only assigned nets for practice. | No practice or open nets on match days. |
| Maintain proper attire during presentations. | Do not repeat rule violations. |
| Coordinate with venue managers for updates. | Do not ignore official communication. |
| Families can watch from hospitality areas. | Families are not allowed on the field of play. |
| Seek prior approval for extra staff such as net bowlers or throwdown specialists. | Do not use additional staff without approval. |