BCCI Imposes Strict Restrictions on IPL Venues
In a major directive issued ahead of IPL 2025, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strictly instructed state cricket associations not to allow IPL franchises to use their respective stadiums for any activities, including practice sessions. The move aims to ensure that playing conditions, particularly the pitch and outfield, remain in pristine condition for the tournament.
Official BCCI Directive to State Associations
The BCCI, in an official communication sent on Friday to all IPL host venues, clarified the guidelines regarding ground usage before the commencement of the tournament. The key points from the directive include:
- The main square and outfield may be used only for Ranji Trophy knockout matches if any are scheduled at the respective venues.
- Under no circumstances should the main square and outfield be used for any local matches, legends leagues, celebrity cricket events, or even by IPL franchises for practice sessions.
The board emphasized that these restrictions are crucial to maintain pitch and outfield quality at an optimal level for IPL matches.
State Units Affected by the Decision
The directive has been sent to state associations responsible for hosting IPL games, including:
- Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA)
- Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA)
- Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA)
- Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA)
- Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA)
- Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB)
- Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA)
- Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA)
- Punjab Cricket Association (PCA)
- Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA)
Additionally, with some IPL matches expected to be held in Guwahati (for Rajasthan Royals) and Dharamsala (for Punjab Kings), the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) and Assam Cricket Association (ACA) have likely received the directive as well.
Impact on IPL Teams and Practice Plans
While the restrictions are intended to preserve the quality of the pitches, they have disrupted the pre-season plans of several IPL teams. Many franchises had intended to use these venues for practice sessions leading up to the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on March 24, 2025.
The directive poses a significant challenge, especially for teams in cities like Mumbai, where Wankhede Stadium lacks dedicated practice grounds, unlike Eden Gardens in Kolkata and a few other venues. The Mumbai Cricket Association’s response to the new restrictions will be closely watched as franchises seek alternative practice arrangements.
Eden Gardens Exception and Ranji Trophy Considerations
Currently, Eden Gardens in Kolkata is hosting the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals, alongside other venues such as Pune, Rajkot, and Nagpur. However, the BCCI has warned that some IPL venues might be required for Ranji Trophy semifinals and final matches.
This development raises further logistical challenges for IPL teams, who may now have to find alternative venues for training sessions or make last-minute adjustments to their preparation plans.
Final Thoughts
BCCI’s latest directive underscores its commitment to ensuring top-notch playing conditions for IPL 2025. While this move may be beneficial for the tournament in terms of pitch preservation, it presents logistical hurdles for franchises. With the IPL start date fast approaching, it remains to be seen how teams and state associations navigate these new restrictions.
