The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a new rule in phase two of IPL. According to this rule, if the ball goes in stands then it will be replaced by the new ball (same condition). And the original ball will be sanitized and placed in the ball library. The IPL 2021 phase 2 will be held in UAE from September 19, 2021.
Why there is a change in rule?
Previously, umpires used to sanitize the ball, whenever it went into the stands. And then players continue to play with the same ball. However, BCCI has taken new measures this time. Since Board has announced that fans will be allowed to attend matches in the stands during phase two of IPL 2021. As a precautionary measure BCCI has announced a new rule.
However, this rule can be a big advantage to the batsmen as each time the ball goes in the stands it will be replaced. So, the new ball will be hard and it will come on the bat very easily. So, bowlers will be using more variations, slower balls to slow down the pace of the ball. And with the change in the rule, we can expect high-scoring matches in Phase 2 of IPL 2021.
Protocols for IPL 2021- phase 2
- All franchise team members must undergo a COVID-19 RT-PCR test, 72 hours before their scheduled flight.
- Every individual must quarantine themselves and avoid contact with others after the RT-PCR test.
- All members whose RT-PCR test result is negative may travel to the franchise’s city of choice.
- For passengers arriving from India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Pakistan, it is mandatory that the COVID-19 PCR report includes a QR code linked to the original report for the verification process.
- In unavoidable circumstances franchise team members and their families can leave the bubble.
- However, for unscheduled visits, prior permission must be sought from the BCCI Chief Medical Officer before leaving the Bubble.
- Re-entry to the Bubble is only permitted after completing 6 full days quarantine.
- For re-entry 3 results of the RT-PCR tests for samples collected on days 2,4 and 6 should be negative.
- Green corridors will be created to avoid close contact with any individuals who are outside their Bio-Secure Bubbles if in exceptional circumstances members within a bubble are required to visit a hospital
Saliva Ban
The saliva ban rule will continue in phase 2 of IPL 2021. The players will not be allowed to use saliva to shine the ball. If a player does apply saliva to the ball, the umpires will manage the situation with some leniency during an initial period of adjustment for the players, but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving a warning. And if the players violated the rule more than once then a 5-run penalty will be given to the batting side.