IPL Bat Integrity Under Scrutiny as New Rule Sparks Debate

quick Summary

• IPL 2025: The Indian Premier league (IPL) continues to influence both Indian and international cricket.
• Balancing Bat and Ball: Efforts are underway to restore balance in the game, with measures like allowing saliva usage on the ball to aid reverse swing. Last season saw excessively high-scoring matches, raising concerns about fairness in the sport.
• Mandatory Bat Gauge Tests: A new rule requires all batsmen’s bats to undergo a gauge test before innings begin.

– Opening batters’ bats will be checked by the fourth umpire.
– Incoming batters’ bats will be checked by on-field umpires.

• New Bat Specifications:

– Width: Max 4.25 inches; Depth: Max 2.64 inches; Edges: Max 1.56 inches.
– Handle size for smaller bats should not exceed 52% of total bat length.
– Covering materials for blades limited to thicknesses of 0.1 cm (blade) and 0.3 cm (toe protection).

• Previous Rule Issues Fixed: Earlier, tests were conducted a day prior, which allowed players to use untested bats during matches-a loophole now addressed mid-tournament due to rising defaulters.

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