Inclusion of new IPL rules; two balls to be used in 2nd innings: Reports

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is back and will start on March 22 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Ahead of the start of the tournament, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has included a few rules as per reports. This time, the board has agreed to use two balls in the 2nd innings of each game. The ball can be taken after the 11th over, keeping in mind the dew factor. 

The decision will solely depend upon the on-field umpires, as they will check the ball and determine whether the ball needs to be changed. If they feel the dew is too much and it might create a hindrance in the game, the ball will be changed. Also, the use of two balls in an afternoon game is likely to be avoided. There haven't been any official announcements on all these rules. 

The IPL committee has also removed the ban on players using saliva on the ball. Now, the bowlers can use saliva on the balls to shine it during the match to frustrate the batters. The shine will help the pacers swing or reverse the ball, which will be beneficial for the team. 

KKR to face RCB in opener game of IPL 2025

The IPL is set to start on March 22, and the first game will be between the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Eden Garden, Kolkata. The contest will be tough for RCB as their opponent will be playing on their own home ground and will have an added advantage. Also, KKR has a better bowling lineup than RCB. 

It will be interesting to watch the game because two new captains will be leading the sides for the first time. Ajinkya Rahane will lead KKR, while Rajat Patidar will lead RCB in the tournament.