IPL 2026: BCCI tightens catch rules, Impact Player set to stay till 2027

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a strict reminder to IPL team captains on the rules governing catches, Times of India reported, while confirming that the controversial Impact Player rule will remain in place for at least two more seasons.

During a captains’ meeting held on Wednesday ahead of the 2026 season, officials stressed that fielders must have complete control over both the ball and their body for a catch to be deemed valid — a rule that will now be enforced more rigorously.

As per Clause 33.3 of the playing conditions, “The act of making a catch shall start from the time when the ball first comes into contact with a fielder's person and shall end when a fielder obtains complete control over both the ball and his own movement.”


While the rule itself is not new, the BCCI underlined its importance by presenting multiple video examples — including instances from the recent ICC Men's T20 World Cup — where catches were ruled invalid due to lack of full control. Former India pacer Javagal Srinath and elite umpire Nitin Menon led the session, which lasted around 90 minutes.

At the same time, the BCCI clarified that there will be no immediate rethink on the Impact Player rule, despite growing criticism from players. The regulation, which allows teams to substitute a player during a match, will continue at least until the 2027 season.

Axar Patel, captain of Delhi Capitals, voiced his reservations, saying: “I don't like this rule, honestly, because I am an all-rounder. Earlier, you would pick an all-rounder for both batting and bowling. Because of this rule, teams now prefer specialists.”

Concerns have been mounting within the cricketing community that the rule could limit opportunities for all-rounders, traditionally valued for their dual skill sets. However, officials indicated that any formal review will only be taken up after the current cycle ends.

“It was discussed, and it was made clear to all of us that the Impact Player rule is here to stay for at least two more seasons,” a franchise representative who attended the meeting said.

With stricter enforcement of on-field rules and continuity in playing regulations, the IPL heads into its 2026 season balancing consistency with evolving gameplay dynamics.