IPL 2025: Nitish Rana, Mohit Sharma back umpires checking bat sizes

In the IPL 2025, Nitish Rana and Mohit Sharma discussed their thoughts about umpires examining bat sizes. Both expressed similar views in their own unique ways. Because T20 cricket is a shorter game, Rana believed the umpires should have the authority to measure each batter’s willows.

Mohit and Rana attended the pre-match news conference prior to the RR vs DC match. Checking the size of his bat was not a problem for Rana.

“There is a shortage of time in T20s, and if the umpires have the time to check the bat, I guess it is their right to do so – even my bat was checked,” Rana

The umpires checked the bats of Phil Salt, Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, and Rana during the RR vs RCB game. In the DC vs. MI game, Hardik Pandya’s bat size was confirmed. Regarding the RR vs. RCB match, the Southpaw stated that umpires measured the bat sizes of roughly 60–70% of the batters.

There is nothing wrong with umpires checking it to make sure they are satisfied: The Nitish Rana

The Southpaw thought it was fair because the umpires’ judgements were made without the batters’ input. He believed that businesses manufactured and sponsored the willows. The RR player stated that if the umpires wished to confirm them, he had no issues as a batter.

During that match, 60–70% of batsmen had their bats tested. Even though it is fair enough, we have no influence over it. We have no problem with the bats being manufactured by the firm that sponsors us. We don’t have an issue, though, if umpires wish to review it to ensure their satisfaction,” Rana continued.

When asked the same question, Mohit Sharma responded in jest, “That’s really good, please check those bats.” We have already witnessed a number of massive sixes. If two bats are found to be too big, they should also be banned.