BCCI Restricts Movement of Benched Players in IPL 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has introduced a strict new rule in IPL 2026. Players who are not participating in the game must remain seated on the bench according to new regulations. The decision aims to improve discipline and reduce confusion during live games.
New Match-Day Restrictions
The updated rule permits only selected players to maintain active status close to the field area. Players who are not participating in the game must stay inside the dugout throughout the entire match. Players are not permitted to walk close to the boundary line nor engage with on-field players without restrictions. The rule affects all team members who are not selected for the official match-day roster. Teams must now clearly define roles before the start of the game.
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Limited Access to the Field
The BCCI has confirmed that 16 selected players will be permitted to join the match. The official team sheet shows the players who will compete in the match. The players have permission to take drinks while they send messages to their teammates. Players who are not part of this designated group must remain off the field at all times. The system better manages player movements during important game situations.
Boundary Movement Cap
The board has also limited the number of players near the boundary rope. Only five players wearing bibs can move around the boundary area. These five players can be from the main 16 or the rest of the squad. However, the total number must not exceed five at any moment. Teams must manage substitutions and support roles carefully.
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The rule follows incidents of unnecessary crowding near the playing area. Some non-designated players were seen entering the field during matches. This created confusion and disrupted the flow of the game. Franchises must now plan their bench usage more efficiently. Support roles will become more structured under this system. The rule is expected to bring more professionalism to IPL matches.