BCCI directs state boards to not allow use of IPL venues for miscellaneous purposes

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a directive to the state cricket associations having IPL venues to not let any franchises use the outfield for any other purposes before the tournament commences. It was noted that before the 2025 edition begins, several franchises are looking to use the venues for practice sessions. 

The apex Indian cricket board also added that the mandate has been rolled out in a bid to preserve the outfield and keep it in sound condition for the cash-rich league. The board has also stated that the outfield could be used for Ranji Trophy knockout games but other leagues such as Legends League Cricket and private celebrity events will be prohibited. 

Also Read: Ranji Trophy 2024/25 Quater-Final: Schedule, Squads, Time, Venues & All you need to know

BCCI's directive to the state associations

"We would like to clarify the following regarding the usage of grounds before the IPL," a BCCI mail, sent on Friday to all the IPL centres, stated as per Cricbuzz.

"1. The main square and the outfield may be used for the Ranji Trophy knockout matches, should any be scheduled at your venue.

"2. Under no circumstances, the main square and outfield be used for any local matches, legends league, celebrity cricket or provided to the IPL franchises for practice sessions.

"This is essential to preserve the pitch and outfield in prime conditions for the IPL matches," it stated.

The state associations to which the directive has been sent are Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA), Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA), Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA), Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), and Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA).

Other venues which have hosted IPL games despite not being home grounds of several franchises are Guwahati (for Rajasthan Royals games) and Dharamsala (for Punjab Kings games). As per reports, the letters have also potentially been received by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) and the Assam Cricket Association (ACA).

With this directive, the venues such as Eden Gardens in Kolkata and Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai might come in a spot of bother as they do not have a practice ground other than the stadiums. It is worth noting that Eden Gardens is the only IPL venue which is hosting Ranji Trophy quarterfinals right now.