IPL 2025 updated rules EXPLAINED: All you need to know about second ball rule, saliva ban, impact player & DRS

Ahead of the 18th season of Indian Premier League that starts on March 22, the BCCI has introduced a few changes in the regulations while retaining some existing rules to enhance the excitement around the world's richest T20 franchise league. The IPL 2025 begins with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the tournament opener in Kolkata. Saliva ban lifted The bowlers will have a sign of relief as they will be allowed to use saliva on the ball for IPL 2025. Impact Player rule to stay till IPL 2027 The Impact Player rule, which has received much flak from the bowlers and a few experts, is there to stay till IPL 2027 to say the least. There have been several controversies on height-based no-balls and wides outside the off-stump in recent years and will DRS coming into play, umpires in IPL 2025 will be able to make more accurate decisions.