Indian Premier League
Bengaluru, March 29: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed IPL franchises that there will be no automatic double checks during DRS referrals this season. Reviews will now be restricted to the original point of appeal, with additional checks carried out only if the opposing side opts for a review within the allotted time.
For example, if the bowling side challenges a caught-behind decision, umpires will not automatically review for a possible wide. Any such assessment will occur only if the batting side requests a review within the 15-second window. As reported by Cricbuzz on March 27, BCCI experts demonstrated various scenarios using video presentations to clarify the process for caught-behinds and wide checks.
In one instance, a bowler delivered a short ball and appealed for a caught-behind. The appeal was turned down, and the bowling side took a review. Replays showed the ball clearly passing above the bat, ruling out contact. BCCI officials emphasised that no automatic check for a high wide would be conducted; it would only be considered if the batting side initiated a review. No additional time beyond the 15 seconds will be granted to the batter.
The guidelines were shared during a recent captains’ meeting at the BCCI office, addressed by BCCI head of match referees Javagal Srinath and umpires chief Nitin Menon.In addition, the BCCI has announced a few updates to the IPL playing conditions ahead of the season opener in Bengaluru on Saturday (March 28):
Innings Timer & 60-Second Clock: The innings timer will appear on the linear scoreboard from the third ball and after each over. A 60-second clock will be displayed on the big screen after every over. Teams will receive two warnings if a bowler is not ready within the allotted run-up time; a third offence will result in five penalty runs awarded to the batting side.Concussion Replacement: Teams may replace an injured player with a like-for-like substitute from the nominated squad. If a wicketkeeper suffers a concussion, a replacement can be taken from the available squad. In the case of an overseas player, a replacement must be an Indian substitute if the team has already fielded four overseas players.Team Sheets: After the toss, captains will receive one copy each of the batting and bowling teams to submit to the match referee. Team managers will exchange the remaining copies and hand them to the Assistant Venue Manager.These measures are aimed at streamlining reviews, maintaining clarity in match procedures, and ensuring player safety throughout the tournament. (IANS)
