BCCI enhances fourth umpire's responsibilities in IPL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced new guidelines to expand the role of the fourth umpire in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This decision was made during a recent meeting with team captains at the Cricket Centre. The fourth umpire will now have greater responsibilities during matches. They will monitor player conduct, especially ensuring bowlers return to the field after their overs. Additionally, the umpire can check the sizes of bats at any time, including during practice sessions. The BCCI emphasized that players should not approach the fourth umpire with complaints about on-field decisions. The fourth umpire will also serve as an emergency third umpire and bring new balls to the dressing room as needed. They will oversee pitch access for authorized personnel before the match and during breaks. Other new rules discussed include: every innings must finish within a set time, retired players will count as wickets in certain situations, and concussion replacements will be allowed with specific conditions. Furthermore, only captains or on-field batsmen can request a time out, and team sheets will be exchanged after the toss.