BCCI Expands Fourth Umpire’s Role in IPL: Key Responsibilities and New Regulations

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expanded the role and responsibilities of the fourth umpire in the Indian Premier League (IPL). During a recent Captains’ Meeting at the Cricket Centre, the BCCI emphasized that the fourth umpire should not be distracted or approached by teams, as they play a crucial role throughout the match.

Fourth Umpire's Responsibilities in IPL

• Random Bat Size Checks – Authorized to check the size of bats on match days and during practice sessions.
• Monitoring Players Retiring to the Dugout – Special focus on bowlers who leave the field after completing their quota of overs.
• Supervision of the Playing Area – Ensuring only authorized personnel have access to the pitch before and during intervals.

“The fourth umpire is an integral part of the officiating team, acting as the voice of the PCT at the boundary. Players should not approach them with grievances regarding decisions.” – BCCI Note.

Additional Duties of the Fourth Umpire

• Serving as an emergency third umpire when needed.
• Carrying a box of at least six new balls to the dressing room and overseeing ball selection.
• Supervising team sheets before the toss and ensuring proper exchange between captains and officials.

New IPL Match Regulations Announced by BCCI

1. 20th Over Completion Rule

Unlike ICC playing conditions, which require only that the 20th over starts within the stipulated time, in the IPL, the entire innings must be completed within the allocated time.

2. Retired Out & DLS Calculations

If a match is interrupted, a retired batter will be counted as a wicket down for DLS (Duckworth-Lewis-Stern) calculations.

3. Concussion Substitutes

• A like-for-like replacement can be chosen from the nominated substitutes.
• If a wicketkeeper suffers a concussion, the replacement can be selected from the available squad.
• If an overseas player is concussed, the replacement must be an Indian player, provided the team has already used all four overseas slots.

4. Time Out Notifications

• Only the captain or the batsmen at the crease can request a time-out.
• If the batsman at the crease requests it, that takes precedence over any advice from the captain off the field.
• Coaches can also request a time-out through the fourth umpire if the captain is unavailable.

5. Team Sheet Distribution

• Team sheets will be distributed after the toss.
• Captains must carry a copy of both the batting and bowling lineup.
• Once the toss result is confirmed, captains hand over the team sheet to the match referee.