The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a series of significant changes to the playing conditions for the 2026-27 domestic cricket season, including a match-long bowling suspension for deliberate front-foot no-balls.
The revised regulations, circulated to state cricket associations ahead of the new season, also introduce changes related to the final over of the day’s play, declarations, wicketkeeping rules and the role of head coaches during drinks breaks.
The new domestic season is scheduled to begin with the Duleep Trophy next month.
Match-long bowling ban for deliberate no-balls
One of the biggest changes comes under Playing Condition 41.8, which states that a bowler found guilty of deliberately delivering a front-foot no-ball or a delivery that does not pitch on the wicket will be barred from bowling for the remainder of the match.
Previously, such a penalty applied only for the remainder of the innings.
According to the BCCI, the on-field umpires will determine whether the no-ball was intentional before imposing the sanction.
Final over must now be completed
The BCCI has also amended Rule 12.5.2, making it mandatory to complete the final over of the day’s play, even if a wicket falls during that over.
Earlier, umpires could call stumps immediately after a wicket fell in the scheduled final over. The revised rule aims to prevent teams from avoiding sending a new batter to the crease for the remaining deliveries.
No declarations or forfeitures in final innings
Another major amendment relates to Rule 15.2, under which teams will no longer be allowed to declare or forfeit the final innings of a match.
The BCCI said the earlier provision had occasionally been used to engineer match results, affecting the integrity of domestic cricket.
Head coaches allowed on field during drinks
The board has also relaxed restrictions on coaching staff during domestic one-day matches.
Under the revised playing conditions, the head coach will now be permitted to enter the field during official drinks intervals. Similar changes are reportedly being considered for international cricket as well.
Wicketkeeping rule eased
The BCCI has modified Rule 27.3 governing wicketkeepers.
Under the new regulation, wicketkeepers must have their gloves completely behind the stumps only at the moment the ball is delivered. Previously, they were required to remain behind the stumps from the start of the bowler’s run-up.
The change is expected to provide greater flexibility while maintaining fairness.
Officials to undergo awareness programmes
State associations have begun informing umpires and match referees about the updated regulations.
The BCCI is also expected to conduct awareness programmes before the start of the domestic season to ensure match officials fully understand and implement the revised playing conditions.
With the Duleep Trophy set to kick off the 2026-27 domestic calendar, the new rules are aimed at strengthening fair play, improving match management and protecting the integrity of Indian domestic cricket.
