The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a major change in the Indian Premier League (IPL) playing conditions ahead of the 2025 season. In a meeting held in Mumbai, attended by all IPL captains and managers, the board decided to scrap the rule that led to captains facing match bans for slow over-rate offences, reported Cricbuzz.

Instead, the BCCI has adopted the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) system of imposing demerit points, which will be carried forward for three years. A ban will now only be imposed in extreme cases.

Hardik Pandya’s Suspension Still Stands

Despite the rule change, Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya will miss the team’s opening match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Chepauk Stadium today (March 23). 

Pandya had received a one-match suspension due to Mumbai Indians' third over-rate offence in IPL 2024. His ban was enforced after MI's final league match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), which they lost by 18 runs.

The revised rules will only be effective from the new season, meaning Pandya's suspension remains in place.

How the New Demerit Points System Works

Under the revised regulations, penalties for slow over-rates will be graded based on severity:

Level 1 offence: Deduction of 25% to 75% of match fees, along with demerit points.

Level 2 offence: More serious infractions will result in four demerit points.

Demerit points will remain valid for three years, ensuring a cumulative tracking of repeated offences.

Suryakumar Yadav to Lead MI in Pandya’s Absence

With Pandya suspended for the opening fixture, vice-captain Suryakumar Yadav will take charge of MI against CSK. Speaking to the media, Pandya confirmed the decision and also expressed confidence in the team’s leadership, highlighting the presence of experienced players like Rohit Sharma.
Mumbai Indians Aim for a Fresh Start

Mumbai Indians endured a disappointing IPL 2024 campaign, finishing at the bottom of the table with just four wins from 14 matches. With a revised squad and leadership adjustments, the five-time IPL champions will be eager to bounce back and reclaim their dominance in the league.