India, March 25 -- The IPL will continue with its ball-change provision in the 2026 season, retaining the rule that allows the team bowling second in an evening match to ask for one replacement ball after the completion of the 10th over of the second innings. The request can be made only by the bowling captain, only at the end of an over, and the replacement ball must be one with comparable wear and tear. The bowling side does not get to choose the ball; the final decision remains with the umpires.

The rule itself is not new for IPL 2026. It was first introduced ahead of IPL 2025 after the captains' meeting, when the IPL formally confirmed that the bowling side in the second innings of an evening game would be allowed one ball change aft...