BCCI has decided to allow teams to use a second old ball in IPL 2025 matches to reduce the impact of dew, as per reports.
The BCCI has reportedly agreed to a new measure for IPL 2025 to help teams manage the dew factor during matches. Teams will have the option to use a second ball in the second innings after the 11th over.
This decision is not a rule change but a mutual agreement between teams and umpires for this season. The replacement ball will not be new but will have visible wear and tear to ensure fair play.
“This is not a rule change, it’s just an understanding for this year between teams and umpires. The changed ball will have wear and tear,” an official was quoted as saying by the PTI.
According to reports from Cricbuzz, the decision to introduce the second ball will primarily apply to night matches. The on-field umpires will assess the conditions and decide whether a ball change is necessary based on the impact of dew. This move aims to reduce the advantage that batting sides often gain in high-dew conditions.
BCCI Likely to Bring Key Rule Changes to Assist Bowlers
Additionally, the Indian Cricket Board has reportedly approved the use of saliva on the ball, aiming to assist pacers in a format that has increasingly favored batters. Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami had previously raised concerns about the restriction, urging the board to reconsider the rule to create a fairer contest.
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The board has also decided to permit DRS reviews for height-based wides and those outside the off-stump, aiming for more accurate umpiring decisions. The implementation of a second dry ball is also planned, addressing concerns over teams preferring to chase due to dew conditions.
The IPL 2025 season is scheduled to begin on March 22. Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening match at Eden Gardens on Saturday evening.
