BCCI Expands Fourth Umpire's Role in IPL 2025 Matches
Author: Joy Sarcar
Updated At:
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has broadened the responsibilities of the fourth umpire in IPL 2025 matches. During a recent Captains' Meeting at the Cricket Centre, BCCI emphasized that the fourth umpire’s role is crucial throughout the match and should not be disrupted by teams.
Bat and Player Monitoring
Among the newly assigned duties, the fourth umpire is authorized to randomly check bat sizes during matches and practice sessions. The umpire will also monitor players retiring to the dugout, especially bowlers leaving the field after completing their quota of overs. This move aims to enhance fairness and maintain discipline on the field.
Acting as Emergency Third Umpire
The fourth umpire will also serve as an emergency third umpire. Their responsibilities include carrying a box of at least six new balls to the dressing room and supervising the selection of balls. Additionally, they will ensure that only authorized personnel have access to the pitch area before play starts and during intervals.
Clear Guidelines Issued
BCCI's note from the Captains’ Meet mentioned, "The 4th Umpire is an important member of the team, the voice of the PCT at the boundary. Players are requested not to approach the 4th Umpire for any grievance against a decision. The 4th Umpire is empowered to check bats at any time on matchdays & practice days."
Other Key Decisions
Apart from expanding the fourth umpire’s role, several other decisions were made during the meeting:
- 20th Over Completion: The entire innings must be completed within the allocated time, including the completion of the 20th over, unlike ICC rules which only count until the 20th over begins.
- Retired Out in DLS Calculations: In interrupted matches, a retired batter will be considered as a wicket down for DLS calculations.
- Concussion Replacements: Like-for-like replacements can be made from nominated substitutes. If a wicketkeeper is concussed, a replacement can be taken from the available squad. For overseas players, replacements can be chosen from nominated Indian substitutes if the team has already used four overseas players.
- Notification for Time Out: Only the captain or batsmen at the wicket can request a time out. If requested by the batsmen at the wicket, it will take precedence over the captain’s advice. Coaches can also request a time out via the fourth umpire if the captain is unavailable.
- Team Sheets Distribution: After the toss, team sheets will be distributed. Captains will hand over the sheets to the match referee, and the team managers will exchange copies with each other and the Assistant Venue Manager.
The BCCI's move to expand the fourth umpire’s role aims to enhance the efficiency and fairness of IPL matches while streamlining various procedures.
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