The IPL 2025 has recently showcased a notable practice where on-field umpires conduct random checks on the bats of players. This procedure is expected to become standard in the Indian Premier League, with all batters required to undergo a bat inspection. Arun Dhumal, the BCCI secretary and IPL governor, has announced that players will be subjected to the 'bat gauge,' a device that umpires will possess prior to the players taking their positions at the crease.

Just three days ago, during a match at the Rajasthan Royals' home ground against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, both Shimron Hetmyer and Phil Salt were unexpectedly halted for a bat inspection. They were required to pass their bats through the gauge, and only after a successful check were they permitted to continue playing. In light of several high-scoring matches exceeding 200 runs, the board has mandated the use of the bat gauge to uphold the integrity of the game.

Dhumal stated to The Indian Express, "It is essential that no player feels they have an unfair advantage. The BCCI and IPL have consistently implemented measures to ensure the game's fairness. We have maximized the use of technology to allow for the review of all decisions, preventing any unjust impacts on the matches. This initiative aims to preserve the spirit of the game."

The regulations specify that the bat's width must not exceed 4.25 inches (10.8 cm), with a maximum depth of 2.64 inches (6.7 cm) and edges limited to 1.56 inches (4.0 cm). The handle's length must not surpass 52% of the bat's total length. Additionally, the thickness of covering materials is restricted to 0.04 inches (0.1 cm), and any toe protection must not exceed 0.12 inches (0.3 cm). Furthermore, the bat must smoothly fit through the official bat gauge.

There's more to it

According to the regulations, the fourth umpire will inspect the bats of the two opening players prior to their entry onto the field, while the two on-field umpires will verify the bats of all other players. Previously, bat inspections were conducted the day before the match; however, a loophole was identified when some players returned the next day with different bats.

"Players often reinforce the lower section of the bat, as that is where they aim to make contact with the ball. Increasing the wood around the 'sweet spot' while reducing it near the handle enhances the power of their shots," stated an international batsman familiar with the use of oversized bats in an interview with Express.

These standard checks, as per IPL regulations, do not impose direct penalties; however, failure to comply necessitates that the player switch bats. Nonetheless, violations can result in significant repercussions, as demonstrated in the 2023 English County Championship when Essex was penalized with a deduction of 12 points after Feroze Khushi's oversized bat was discovered during the match, which ultimately affected their position in the league standings.

In the match between the Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, captain Hardik Pandya's bat was also inspected, but he faced no issues. Conversely, during the game against the Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders' Sunil Narine experienced an awkward moment when his bat failed to pass through the gauge, compelling him to change his bat before taking his turn to bat. Anrich Nortje was also required to switch his bat.

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