The BCCI has introduced new rules for IPL 2026 that limit where benched players can go during a match. From now on, only the 16 players named in the official team sheet can enter the field.
All other squad members must stay in the dugout and cannot carry drinks, bats, or messages onto the ground.
What Has Changed?
Under the new rules, only players who are named in the official 16-man team sheet can enter the field of play. This list includes the Playing XI and five substitute or Impact Player options submitted at the toss.
Any squad member not on this list of 16 is not allowed to:
- Enter the field
- Carry drinks onto the ground
- Deliver bats or equipment
- Pass messages to players in the middle
Players outside the 16 must stay in the dugout for the entire match. They are no longer free to move around in the area between the boundary line and the LED advertising boards.
The Five-Player Boundary Rule
Even among the 16 named players, there is a new limit. At any point during the match, no more than five players wearing bibs can be near the boundary rope at one time.
These five players must also wait at specific spots before delivering drinks or equipment. This is to ensure they do not block sponsor signage or affect broadcast camera angles.
Why Did BCCI Introduce These Rules?
The BCCI has not released a single official statement explaining the change. However, reports point to a few key reasons.
One concern is the protection of LED advertising boards. There were incidents where benched players and support staff reportedly damaged this equipment during casual warm-ups or by sitting in restricted areas.
The board also wants a cleaner look for the global broadcast feed. Limiting movement near the boundary keeps the focus on active play and official sponsors.
Which Existing Rules Does This Update?
The new guidelines add to two existing clauses in the Match Playing Conditions.
Clause 11.5.2 already states that individual players can receive drinks at the boundary edge or at the fall of a wicket, but no other drinks can be brought onto the field without the umpires’ permission.
Clause 24.1.4 states that squad members who are not playing and not acting as substitute fielders must wear a team training bib while on the playing area, including the zone between the boundary and the perimeter fencing.
The latest rules build on these clauses with stricter enforcement.
How Did Franchises React?
Multiple franchise sources, quoted by Cricbuzz, confirmed they received the instructions recently. One source said:
“Instructions have been passed to us only recently that all substitutes cannot move around during the match. They are also not allowed to carry drinks onto the field. Only the 16 named in the team for the match can do so.”
Some teams had reportedly asked for more flexibility, but the BCCI did not change its stance.
What Does This Mean for Teams?
Teams will now need to plan their support operations more carefully before each match. With only five players allowed near the boundary at any time, franchises must decide which squad members take on drinks and equipment duties.
The rules are already in effect for the remainder of IPL 2026, which runs until May 24, 2026.
