The BCCI has reportedly updated the IPL playing conditions, imposing a limit on the number of squad members allowed to move around the ground during a match. Under the new rules, team managers have been informed that no more than 16 members of a squad can enter the field or move between the boundary line and the LED advertising boards.
An IPL squad typically consists of 25 players, of which 16 are named in the team sheet for a particular match – comprising the playing XI and five impact substitutes. The remaining members, who are not part of the designated 16, must remain in the dugout and will no longer be allowed to carry drinks or relay messages to players on the field.
“Instructions have been passed to us only recently that all substitutes cannot move around during the match. They are also not allowed to carry drinks onto the field. Only the 16 named in the team for the match can do so. In addition to that, only five outside the playing XI can move around. The others can sit in the dugout, but cannot move between the boundary line and LED advertising boards,” Cricbuzz quoted sources as saying.
This change is the latest in a series of updates BCCI has made ahead of IPL 2026, which also includes an expanded Anti-Discrimination Code. Players and match officials are now required to abide by the code for three months after their contracts end. Any violations during this period could result in sanctions ranging from a four-match suspension to a life ban.
The board has also clarified that there will be no automatic double-checks on DRS referrals unless a separate request is made. For instance, if a fielding team reviews a “not out” decision for a caught-behind, the TV umpire will not check for a wide if there is no bat contact.
