The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the Impact Player rule will remain in effect until at least 2027, putting an end to speculation about its removal ahead of IPL 2025. The decision was conveyed during the captains and managers’ meeting at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai on March 20.
Over-Rate Rule Revamped: No Immediate Match Bans for Captains
One of the major changes for IPL 2025 is the modification of the over-rate penalty system. Unlike previous seasons, captains will no longer face immediate match bans for slow over-rates. Instead, they will now accumulate demerit points, which will be carried over for a period of three years. A Level 1 offence will result in a fine ranging from 25% to 75% of match fees, along with demerit points. A Level 2 offence could lead to four demerit points. If a player accumulates four demerit points, additional penalties—including possible match bans—may be imposed by the match referee.
This decision comes after incidents in previous seasons where Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya were suspended due to over-rate violations. Hardik Pandya, in particular, will be missing Mumbai Indians’ opening match of IPL 2025 due to an over-rate penalty from the previous season.
Impact Player Rule Confirmed Until 2027
Despite ongoing debates over its fairness and impact on team balance, the Impact Player Rule has been extended for the current IPL cycle. “The rule will be reviewed after 2027, meaning it is set to stay at least until then,” a source told Cricbuzz. This ensures that teams can continue substituting one player per match for strategic advantage.
DRS Changes & Other Key Revisions
Additionally, the BCCI has modified the DRS clause, allowing players to challenge decisions on height-based wides and wides outside the off-stump. This builds upon the existing rule that permits reviews for wide and no-ball decisions.
These new rules come alongside previously reported changes, including lifting the saliva ban and introducing a second ball in the second innings to counter the dew factor in night matches. With these adjustments, IPL 2025 is set to feature some of the most refined playing conditions in recent years.
