BCCI Tightens IPL Protocols, Reviews Overseas League Participation

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced stricter measures to strengthen integrity, security and operational compliance during the Indian Premier League (IPL), while also considering a new policy governing the participation of retired Indian cricketers in overseas franchise leagues.

The BCCI warned the participating teams in IPL 2026 against possessing or using ‘Smart Goggles’ in the tournament. These smart sunglasses or goggles may be equipped with advanced communication features that include live streaming and sending and receiving text messages, as well as audio and video calling options via mobile data or Wi-Fi.

During match days, all the players and support staff were asked to deposit such devices as their mobile phones and smartwatches with the ‘Security Liaison Officer’ (SLO). According to the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) standards, smartwatches or any other communication devices should be turned off and given to the team SLO for storage on arrival at the stadium. Reports suggest that the advisory issued by the BCCI classified these smart glasses as ‘Audio/Video recording device’ and ‘Communication Device’, which is why possession or usage of such devices has been strictly banned in the PMOA area. Not following the guidelines would have led to a breach of the protocols, resulting in potential penalties.

Previously, the BCCI tightened the IPL integrity rules by intensifying its monitoring of anti-corruption, security, and operational compliance during the ongoing Indian Premier League amid growing concerns over unauthorised access, social media activity, and breaches of tournament protocols.

In other news, on June 4, 2026, the apex council had a meeting with the BCCI regarding retired Indian cricketers joining foreign leagues, the retired players immediately joined overseas, which was a major problem, as stated by the board. According to reports, the Board is examining the introduction of a five-year cooling-off period for players who retire from Indian cricket and subsequently participate in overseas franchise competitions.

Under the proposed framework, such players would be ineligible to return to Indian cricket, including domestic competitions, international cricket, and the Indian Premier League (IPL), for a period of five years following their retirement.

The move is reportedly aimed at addressing what the BCCI views as a growing trend of players retiring from the Indian cricket structure primarily to pursue opportunities in overseas leagues. At present, active Indian cricketers are prohibited from participating in foreign franchise leagues, while retired players are generally free to do so after obtaining the necessary clearances.

Reports suggest that the issue gained prominence following the case of Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar, who retired from Indian domestic cricket and subsequently signed with the Kandy Royals in the Lanka Premier League. The Board is understood to have viewed such instances as indicative of a broader pattern that could potentially affect the strength and stability of the Indian domestic cricket ecosystem.

Several former Indian cricketers, including Dinesh Karthik, Yuvraj Singh and Unmukt Chand, have also participated in overseas leagues following their retirement from Indian cricket. The BCCI is reportedly concerned that the increasing attractiveness of foreign franchise tournaments may encourage players to exit the Indian system earlier than anticipated.

The proposed cooling-off period would constitute a significant restriction, particularly for players who may seek to return to domestic cricket, the IPL, or international cricket after a brief retirement. Reports indicate that the final contours of the policy are yet to be determined, with the BCCI President and Secretary expected to play a key role in finalising the framework.

In addition to discussions concerning player participation in overseas leagues, the Apex Council reportedly considered requests for financial assistance from the cricket boards of the Maldives and Fiji, as well as a proposal relating to the affiliation of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands cricket association with the BCCI.