BCCI Moves to Protect IPL Venues
With IPL 2025 fast approaching, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken decisive action to maintain the quality of stadiums. The governing body has issued strict directives to state cricket associations, instructing them to restrict IPL franchises from accessing key venues before the tournament. The goal is to ensure that playing surfaces and outfields remain in optimal condition for the high-profile league.
State Associations Receive Official Instructions
In an official email sent on Friday, the BCCI outlined specific regulations regarding the use of IPL venues. According to the directive, the stadiums can only be used for Ranji Trophy knockout matches if required. However, the board has prohibited local tournaments, Legends League matches, celebrity cricket events, and even IPL franchise practice sessions at these venues.
The main square and the outfield may be used for the Ranji Trophy knockout matches, should any be scheduled at your venue. Under no circumstances should the main square and outfield be used for any local matches, legends league, celebrity cricket, or provided to IPL franchises for practice sessions,” the BCCI’s official statement read.
Impact on IPL Team Preparations
The restrictions are expected to significantly affect IPL franchises, as teams typically conduct pre-season practice sessions at their home venues. The unavailability of stadiums could force franchises to seek alternative practice facilities, potentially disrupting their training schedules ahead of the tournament’s scheduled start on March 24, 2025.
State Associations Affected by the Ban
The BCCI has communicated these restrictions to all major state cricket associations that serve as IPL venues. The affected associations include:
- Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA)
- Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA)
- Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA)
- Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA)
- Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA)
- Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB)
- Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA)
- Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA)
- Punjab Cricket Association (PCA)
- Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA)
Additionally, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) and Assam Cricket Association (ACA) are expected to comply, as their venues in Dharamsala and Guwahati are set to host select IPL matches.
Ranji Trophy Knockouts Could Further Limit Access
Adding to the challenge, some IPL venues are currently being used for the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals in Kolkata, Pune, Rajkot, and Nagpur. The BCCI has also hinted that some IPL stadiums could host the semifinals and final of the premier domestic tournament. If confirmed, this would further limit the availability of practice grounds for IPL teams.
What’s Next for IPL 2025 Preparations?
With stadium access now restricted, IPL franchises may have to explore alternate practice venues or make adjustments to their training schedules. Wankhede Stadium, Eden Gardens, and a few other locations remain key training options, but their availability is uncertain due to other ongoing domestic commitments.
The BCCI’s decision highlights its commitment to pitch preservation and venue readiness for IPL 2025. However, with less than two months to go before the season begins, teams will need to adapt swiftly to these restrictions to ensure their preparations remain on track.(online casino games)