The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has entrusted the fourth umpire with more responsibilities in IPL 2025. The franchises were informed of the new powers of the official during the Captains’ meet ahead of the tournament. The role of a fourth umpire previously restricted to bringing in new balls, assisting on-field umpires and serving as a back-up to the third umpire.
More powers for 4th umpire in IPL 2025
The BCCI informed the IPL franchises that the 4th umpire can now check bats – both during matches and during practice sessions. The official will also monitor bowlers who leave the field after finishing their quota. Habitual offenders who leave the field to take rest will also be monitored by the official.
“The 4th Umpire is empowered to check bats at any time on matchdays & practice days. They will be monitoring those bowlers who have left the field after finishing their bowling quota & those players who are habitual offenders of leaving the field to take rest,” a BCCI note, on the minutes of the Captains’ Meet, specified.
Additionally. the fourth umpire shall also act as the emergency third umpire. He shall take a box containing at least six new balls to the dressing room, supervise the selection of the ball. He shall also ensure that, prior to the start of play and during any intervals, only authorised staff, the IPL match officials, players, team coaches and authorised television personnel shall be allowed access to the pitch area.
“The 4th Umpire is an important member of the team, the voice of the PCT at the boundary. Players are requested not to approach the 4th Umpire for any grievance against a decision,” the BCCI added.
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