The 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starts on March 31, 2023, with the Chennai Super Kings versus the defending champions, Gujarat Titans. This year’s tournament introduces new rules, including impact players and significant changes to DRS calls. These modifications will have an impact on the upcoming IPL season, as the event marks its 15th anniversary.
Impact Player
A significant change coming to IPL 2023 is the introduction of the impact substitute rule, allowing teams to name 15 players instead of 11, with four players remaining on the bench, one of whom can be brought on as an Impact Substitute. However, the player must be Indian if the team named all four foreigners in their playing XI. An overseas player can only be used as a substitute if the team has not named four foreigners in their starting lineup. The impact player can enter the field at specific stages of an innings, including before the start or after an over finishes, during field restrictions, or at the fall of a wicket or if a batter retires, but only until the 14th over.
Changes in DRS Calls
The IPL 2023 season introduces new changes to DRS calls, with players able to review umpire decisions for wide balls and no-balls, following the WPL’s use of this technology.
Team sheets to be exchanged after toss
Teams in IPL 2023 can exchange their playing XI and four substitutes only after the toss, instead of before. This rule change aims to eliminate any advantages a team might gain after winning the toss. Teams can also choose their XI based on whether they are batting or bowling first, a rule that was first introduced in the inaugural edition of SA20 earlier this year.
Penalty for wicketkeeper making unfair movements
In the IPL 2023, if a wicketkeeper changes his position before the batsman hits the ball, it will be considered unfair. The square leg umpire has the option to signal a dead ball, wide, or no ball. Additionally, they can award five runs to the batting side in such cases. This new rule aims to prevent wicketkeepers from unfairly influencing the play by shuffling across the stumps before the ball is hit.
Penalty for slow over rate
Teams must complete their 20 overs within 90 minutes. Failure to do so will result in fielding restrictions, with only four players allowed outside the 30-yard circle.
