The new rules from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have arrived, and players’ difficulties have increased. Let me explain it to you in detail.
According to the new rules, players who are not included in the team’s 16-player squad will not be allowed to enter the ground under any circumstances—whether it’s to carry drinks or deliver a message.
Apart from this, under the new rules, only five players can be present near the boundary line at any given time. It doesn’t matter whether these players are part of the 16-player squad or not, but there cannot be more than five at a time.
Until now, these players were normally seen carrying drinks or returning the ball that went outside the boundary. But now, the remaining players will have to sit in the dugout. They will not be permitted to move around between the boundary line and the LED boards.
Earlier, there was some flexibility in the rules, where players could carry drinks onto the ground as long as the match was not disturbed. But now, the BCCI has made Clauses 11.5.2 and 24.1.4 of the match playing conditions stricter and imposed restrictions.
Clause 11.5.2 relates to the drinks rule. It states that during the match, drinks can only be given to players in two situations: first, near the boundary line, and second, when a wicket falls. It must also be ensured that this does not waste time during the game.
Apart from this, taking drinks onto the ground requires the umpire’s permission. Any player going onto the ground to carry drinks must be in proper cricket uniform.
Additionally, Clause 24.1.4 relates to non-playing players. It states that players who are not playing the match and are not substitute fielders must wear a team training bib if they are inside the ground or in the area between the boundary and the outer fence.
Now, the BCCI has removed any confusion in the rules. There is no longer any need for guesswork—it has been clearly defined who can go onto the ground and who cannot.
The official reason behind these rule changes has not been stated. It could be to maintain discipline, reduce crowding on the ground, or to have better control over communication and activities during the match.
But until something is officially announced, you can share in the comments what you think—why these rule changes have been made.
