IPL 2026 introduces new ball change rule for upcoming season

Just before the beginning of the IPL 2026, which is just four days away, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified the ball change rules for the second innings.

IPL 2025 first introduced the ball-change rules for the second innings of only the night matches, where dew affected the games. 

According to reports, the Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants match, which was the fourth game of the IPL 2025, first utilised that ball change opportunity during the second innings of the night match.  

See Also: IPL 2026: BCCI introduces strict new rules for teams ahead of season

Bowling side can request ball change once in second innings after 10th over

Just like the 2025 season, IPL 2026 will also bring similar opportunities, as the evening game's second innings team can ask for a ball change after the end of the first 10 overs. However, the latest rules have been clarified in a better way. 

According to the Cricbuzz report, if the ball cannot be found or recovered, or the umpires agree that the ball has become unfit for play through normal means, the second innings bowling team captain can ask for a ball change at the end of the first 10 overs. 

Umpires to replace ball with similar wear and inform both captains

Talking about the replacement ball, the umpires will choose a ball with similar wear and tear. The ball change request can happen only once in the second innings after the first 10 overs delivered. The rules have also been clarified that the evening match second innings bowling team's request can be made irrespective of whether the dew or no dew on the outfield. Also, the ball change request can be made only after the end of any over. 

Meanwhile, the umpires can also change the ball at their discretion at any time during the match. 

Fans react as IPL 2026 brings major rule tweak to tackle dew factor