The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new regulation prohibiting sleeveless jerseys and floppy hats during post-match presentations in the IPL. This move aims to maintain a formal and professional appearance during official ceremonies.
New Guidelines for Players
- First Offense: Players violating the rule will receive a warning.
- Second Offense Onwards: A financial penalty will be imposed.
The decision has been communicated to all IPL franchises, with teams expected to ensure compliance among players. This regulation aligns with BCCI’s approach to maintaining discipline and a uniform dress code during the high-profile league.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to commence on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the season opener at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the schedule on Sunday.
Entering its 18th season, IPL remains the most lucrative franchise-based T20 cricket league globally. This season will follow the same format as IPL 2024, with 10 teams split into two groups, competing for the coveted trophy.
Opening Fixtures & Format
- Match 1: Kolkata Knight Riders vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru – March 22, Eden Gardens
- Match 2: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs. Rajasthan Royals – March 23, Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
IPL 2025 Team Groups
- Group A: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
- Group B: Mumbai Indians (MI), Gujarat Titans (GT), Delhi Capitals (DC), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
Each team will play the other four teams in their group twice, one team from the other group twice, and the remaining four teams once in the league stage.
Playoff Structure
- Qualifier 1 (May 20, Hyderabad): Top two teams battle for a direct spot in the final
- Eliminator (TBD): Teams finishing 3rd and 4th compete, winner advances
- Qualifier 2 (TBD): Loser of Qualifier 1 vs. Winner of Eliminator
- Final (May 25, Kolkata): Qualifier 1 Winner vs. Qualifier 2 Winner
The IPL 2025 final will be played at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on May 25.
