IPL franchises can no longer share nets:BCCI issues practice session guidelines; teams allowed to play two practice matches

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has introduced new practice guidelines for teams ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. The rules focus on improving fairness and maintaining the quality of pitches during practice sessions. The new guidelines clearly state that teams will not be allowed to practice on nets or pitches that have already been used by another team. Instead, every team will be given separate and fresh practice nets to prepare for their matches. The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 28, and the opening match will feature defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The BCCI released the full tournament schedule on March 11, one day earlier than expected. Separate nets for every team in IPL 2026 Under the new rules, teams will not be allowed to use practice nets already used by another franchise. Even if two teams plan to practice at different times, the nets used by the first team will not be made available to the second team. In addition, if a team finishes its practice session early, another team will still not be allowed to use their range-hitting pitch. The BCCI has introduced this rule to maintain equal conditions and avoid any disputes between teams. 3 points of practice guidelines for the IPL 2026 season 1. Each team can play only 2 practice matches The BCCI has limited the number of practice matches that each team can play before the tournament. Every team will be allowed to play a maximum of two practice matches, and this will require prior permission from the board. The duration of practice matches held under floodlights will be no more than three and a half hours. These matches will not take place on the main pitch. Instead, they will be played on side wickets prepared for practice. 2. No practice or training on the main pitch until 4 days before the match Another important rule is related to the main match pitch. According to the BCCI, no practice session or practice match will be allowed on the main pitch until four days before a team’s first home game. This rule is designed to ensure that the pitch remains in good condition for the actual matches during the tournament. The home team will be given priority while scheduling practice sessions. If both teams wish to practice at the same time and cannot agree on a schedule, the BCCI will step in and assign different practice time slots. 3. Catering, medical and security are home team’s responsibility The guidelines also clarify responsibilities for hosting teams during practice sessions. The home franchise will be responsible for arranging catering services, medical support, security, and other necessary facilities during training sessions. However, the visiting team will need to arrange their own beverages during practice. Focus on fair preparation before IPL 2026 With the IPL 2026 season approaching quickly, the BCCI’s new rules aim to ensure fair practice opportunities for all teams and maintain the quality of pitches throughout the tournament.