The Indian Premier League (IPL) has made significant changes to its disciplinary framework ahead of the 2025 season, doing away with the rule that suspended captains after three over-rate offences. From this season onwards, over-rate violations will only result in fines and in-game field restrictions, with no automatic suspension for repeat offenders.
Impact on Hardik Pandya and Future Cases
While this new rule is a major shift, any sanctions imposed before IPL 2025 will still apply. As a result, Hardik Pandya—Mumbai Indians’ newly-appointed captain—will miss the opening match against Chennai Super Kings on March 23 due to a suspension carried over from the 2024 season. However, going forward, captains will no longer face match bans for slow over-rates.
Demerit Points System: Aligning with ICC Code of Conduct
In a further move to streamline its regulations with international cricket, the IPL has adopted a demerit points system similar to the ICC Code of Conduct.
Here’s how it works:
- Penalties and Points: Any sanction imposed by the match referee will result in demerit points. For instance, a 25% fine on a player’s match fee will result in one demerit point.
- Validity Period: These points will stay on the individual’s record for 36 months and apply to both players and team officials.
- Suspension Risk: Accumulating a specified number of demerit points could lead to suspension for the offending player or official.
Appeal Process: High Stakes and High Costs
The IPL has also introduced a formal appeal process for Level 2 or 3 offences. Players, team officials, or franchises can challenge sanctions through the BCCI ombudsman, but only after paying an appeal fee of INR 90 lakh (USD 104,000 approx.). This fee will only be refunded if the appeal is completely successful.
Key points about the appeal process:
- Applies only to Level 2 and 3 offences.
- Requires a significant financial commitment for appeal.
- Ensures seriousness in challenging disciplinary decisions.
No Retrospective Application of Demerit Points
Any sanctions imposed before IPL 2025 will not be converted into demerit points. This ensures that past infractions do not impact players or officials under the new system.
A New Era of Accountability
These changes reflect the IPL’s commitment to modernizing its disciplinary procedures while maintaining fairness and consistency. With the introduction of demerit points and a structured appeal process, the league aims to enforce regulations more effectively while aligning itself with global cricketing standards.
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