In an unusual incident during the IPL 2025 match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, Shimron Hetmyer of RR and RCB's Phil Salt came under the umpire's examination—not for their batting techniques but for their bats.

The initial inspection involved Hetmyer and occurred at the conclusion of the 16th over of Rajasthan's innings, shortly after the dismissal of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. As Hetmyer entered the field to bat at the fifth position, joining Dhruv Jurel, the on-field umpire paused the game to assess the equipment of the new batter.

Utilizing a standard bat gauge, the umpire checked whether Hetmyer's bat complied with the official IPL regulations, a moment that briefly captured the attention of the spectators.

This inspection was conducted in accordance with Law 5.7 of the IPL playing conditions, which mandates that bats must conform to specific size requirements. According to the regulations, the total length of a bat, including the handle, must not exceed 38 inches (96.52 cm).

The blade's width is limited to 4.25 inches (10.8 cm), with a depth restriction of 2.64 inches (6.7 cm), and the edges must not surpass 1.56 inches (4.0 cm). Furthermore, the handle should not account for more than 52% of the bat's total length. Any covering materials must remain within 0.04 inches (0.1 cm), and toe protection must not exceed 0.12 inches (0.3 cm) in thickness. The bat must also be able to pass through the official bat gauge without obstruction.

Hetmyer’s bat successfully passed the inspection, allowing the game to continue without further interruption.

Notably, RCB opener Phil Salt also underwent a similar examination prior to his innings, suggesting that the umpire's actions were likely part of a predetermined bat verification protocol.

While these checks are routine and do not carry any direct penalties under IPL rules, a failure to comply would have simply meant the player switching bats. However, breaches can lead to more serious consequences, as seen during the 2023 English County Championship when Essex was docked 12 points after Feroze Khushi’s oversized bat was discovered mid-innings. That sanction ultimately cost Essex a higher finish in the standings.

RCB registers a convincing win

The Royal Challengers achieved a commanding 9-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals in the afternoon match held in Jaipur on Sunday, successfully pursuing a target of 174 runs with 15 balls remaining.

Virat Kohli finished not out with a score of 62, while Salt contributed an impressive 63, helping to secure the chase within the initial 10 overs.

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