The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has apparently introduced a new demerit points system for the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). They will now adhere to a framework inspired by the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Code but with some changes. The only difference is that whereas the regulations of the ICC require demerit points to be carried forward for five years, the BCCI system will be for three years, according to a report by Cricbuzz.
The report states that accumulating four to seven demerit points will result in a one-match suspension, 8-11 points will lead to a two-match suspension, 12-15 points will cause a three-match suspension, and 16 or more points will result in a five-game suspension within a three-year period.
The number of demerit points assigned will depend on the severity of the offence. A Level 1 offence will incur one demerit point along with a fine of 25 percent of the match fees. A Level 2 offence may result in 3-4 points, a Level 3 offence in 5-6 points, and a Level 4 violation in 7-8 points.
Offense Categories and Penalty Points
| Offense Category | Examples | Penalty Points |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Offenses | Excessive appealing | 1 point |
| Moderate Offenses | Showing dissent to the umpire | 3-4 points |
| Serious Offenses | Ball tampering, physical altercations | 5-8 points |
Suspension Rules
| Demerit Points Accumulated | Suspension Duration |
|---|---|
| 4-7 points | 1-match ban |
| 8-11 points | 2-match ban |
| 12-15 points | 3-match ban |
| 16+ points | 5-match ban |
Another important aspect is that the punishment can be enforced for a specific duration or number of matches, as determined by the match referee or an ombudsman.
“Where a Match Referee or Ombudsman imposes a period of suspension on any Player or Team Official, then, unless such period is for a fixed duration (for example, one year), any such suspension shall be measured in Suspension Points. Each Match in the League shall carry a weightage of one (1) Suspension Point. To clarify, a sanction of one (1) Suspension Point shall result in a one (1) Match suspension,” the report cites the BCCI.
The new regulations have been approved by the IPL Governing Council, and the captains along with their respective teams were informed about these changes during an earlier meeting. The upcoming season is scheduled to commence with the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, facing off against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on March 22 (Saturday).
Key Changes in the IPL Demerit Points System
• Suspension of captains for slow over-rates – This penalty is no longer applicable.
• Suspensions can be appealed by players – But an appeal will cost ₹90 lakh, which will be refunded if the appeal is granted.
• Demerit points are valid for three years – In contrast to ICC rules, where they remain for five years.
• Current suspensions remain in effect – But won’t be considered under the new demerit points system.
