EXPLAINED – How IPL’s New 2nd Ball Rule Is Changing The Game

By
Unnati Madan
Unnati is a passionate cricket writer with a deep love and understanding of the game. As a female cricket writer, she brings a unique perspective to...
3 Min Read

The IPL 2025 has introduced four new or changed rules, sparking interest. These changes include the use of saliva to shine the ball, a new Code of Conduct, and an expanded scope for DRS. The fourth rule change is particularly interesting. It is about replacing the wet ball to tackle dew.

IPL 2025: Four Key Rule Changes Spark Intrigue

“To address challenges posed by dew during evening matches, the team bowling second will now have the option to request a ball change once after the 10th over,” the IPL said in a statement.

- Advertisement -
Ad imageAd image

The bowling captain can make this request, regardless of whether there is visible dew or not. Once the request is made, the umpires will mandatorily replace the ball with another one of similar wear and tear. The bowling team will not have the liberty to choose the replacement ball. Additionally, the umpires retain the authority to change the ball at any time before the 10th over if it is deemed too wet, out of shape, lost, or damaged. If a captain requests a ball change in the 11th over due to it being out of shape, the umpires will evaluate the request and approve it if deemed necessary.

“If a subsequent request is made after a few overs solely due to dew, the umpires will be required to replace the ball mandatorily as stated earlier.”

Ashutosh Sharma’s Heroic Knock Leads DC to Stunning IPL Victory

Ashutosh pulled off an incredible performance in the IPL, leading his team to chase down 210 runs from a difficult position of 65/5. In DC’s unforgettable win at Vizag, the final partnership between Ashutosh and Mohit was crucial.

When DC was at 192/9 after Kuldeep Yadav’s dismissal for five, they still needed 18 runs to win. Ashutosh took control, hitting Prince Yadav for a four and a six after a double, bringing the target down to just six runs in the final over.

- Advertisement -
Ad imageAd image

In the last over, after missing a stumping and a failed leg-before-wicket appeal, LSG captain Rishabh Pant had a lot on his plate. Mohit showed great awareness, taking a single to bring Ashutosh on strike, leaving just five runs needed from the remaining four balls. Ashutosh then hit a straight six, securing the win for DC with a wicket and three balls to spare.

This 19-run partnership is now the highest in IPL history for a one-wicket win, according to Wisden.

ALSO READ: Punjab Kings’ Home Ground To Stage ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Final

Unnati is a passionate cricket writer with a deep love and understanding of the game. As a female cricket writer, she brings a unique perspective to the sport, having had to overcome various challenges to pursue her passion for cricket. Growing up, Unnati developed a love for cricket by watching matches with her family. She was always fascinated by the way the game was played, and would often spend hours reading about cricket, analyzing matches, and learning more about the sport. However, as a female in a male-dominated industry, she faced numerous obstacles to pursue her passion for cricket writing. Despite this, Unnati persevered and became an accomplished writer in the field. Unnati’s writing style is engaging and insightful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the nuances of the game. Her articles are known for their depth of analysis, and she is often sought after for her strong opinions on the sport. Unnati has a unique ability to break down complex ideas and make them accessible to a wide audience, which has helped her build a large following of readers.