IPL Tightens Bat Regulations Mid-Season Amid Rising Violations:

In a significant regulatory change mid-season, the IPL has made it mandatory for all bats to undergo a gauge test just before a player begins their innings. This new protocol replaces the earlier practice where the fourth umpire checked bats inside dressing rooms a day prior to matches.

Under the updated rule, openers will have their bats examined by the fourth umpire before taking the field, while subsequent batters will undergo testing by on-field umpires as they walk in.

This shift comes after a noticeable rise in non-compliant bats, prompting concerns that some players might be exploiting existing loopholes by using unapproved bats during the match.

Recent Violations Prompt Immediate Action

The revised rule was implemented shortly before the Punjab Kings vs. Kolkata Knight Riders clash. During the game, the bats of Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje failed the new on-field gauge test, triggering fresh scrutiny of bat specifications.

According to current regulations, the bat’s dimensions must not exceed:

Width: 4.25 inches

Depth: 2.64 inches

Edge Thickness: 1.56 inches

Additional regulations specify limits on handle size, blade covering material (max thickness 0.1 cm), and toe protection (max thickness 0.3 cm).

The earlier off-field process allowed bat swaps post-inspection, making enforcement difficult. The new rule eliminates that possibility, ensuring compliance directly before use.

Team Response and Implementation

All franchises were briefed about the updated inspection protocol. No objections have been raised so far, indicating general support for the move to maintain fairness and consistency.

Adjustments in Umpire Roles and Celebrations

In a separate development, IPL umpires have been instructed to be more lenient toward on-field player celebrations. This comes after criticism over repeated penalties handed to Lucknow Super Giants’ Digvesh Rathi for his ‘notebook’ celebration.

However, umpires have seen a reduction in other responsibilities. They no longer need to:

Check frontfoot no-balls (now technology-assisted)

Confirm with captains about withdrawing appeals for run-outs at the non-striker's end or for obstructing the field

These changes reflect a streamlining of umpire duties while relying more on on-field checks and automated systems.