BCCI upgrades roles and responsibilities of 4th umpires in IPL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) met with the captains,

coaches, and managers on March 20 to announce the improvement of some of the tournament’s rules and regulations ahead of the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

The Board broadened the duties and responsibilities of the fourth umpires this time around, who will officiate every game. The fourth umpires oversee crucial issues while working off the pitch.

In addition to checking players’ bats during games, the umpires can now check them during practice. Occasionally, players—particularly bowlers—retire to the dugout in between games. After each over, a number of bowlers retire to the dugout. These issues will also need to be closely monitored by the fourth umpires.

In addition to these duties, the fourth umpires will also serve as backup third umpires during games if necessary. Before the match begins, they will closely monitor everyone accessing the pitch area. The only people permitted to view the pitch are authorised staff, IPL match officials, players, team coaches, and authorised television workers. Carrying a box of six fresh balls and choosing them for the match will also fall under the purview of the fourth umpire.

“A vital team component, the fourth umpire serves as the PCT’s spokesperson at the boundary. It is requested that players refrain from addressing the fourth umpire with any complaints regarding a ruling. On game and practice days, the fourth umpire has the authority to check bats at any moment. A BCCI note from the meeting stated, “They will be keeping an eye on bowlers who have left the pitch after reaching their bowling quota and players who are habitual offenders of leaving the pitch to rest.”