IPL 2025 Rule Change Could Shake Up Fantasy Cricket Strategies

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a key rule change for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. To address the challenge posed by dew in night matches, teams batting first will now have the option to use a second new ball after the 11th over. The goal is to ensure a fairer contest between bat and ball, as excessive dew often makes it difficult for bowlers to maintain control.

If you’re playing fantasy cricket in IPL 2025, adapting to the rule changes could give you an edge over the competition.

How the New Ball Rule Works

During the captains’ meeting ahead of IPL 2025, officials explained how the second new ball rule will function. The decision to allow a new ball will not be automatic. Instead, umpires will assess the playing conditions and determine if dew is affecting the game significantly. If the umpire deems the conditions warrant a change, the team batting first can take a fresh ball after completing the 11th over. However, this rule will not apply to afternoon matches where dew is not a factor.

A source close to the discussions stated, “It’s up to the umpires to determine whether the ball needs to be changed. They will decide based on the presence of dew.”

Key Points About the 2nd New Ball Rule

• The rule applies only to the second innings of night matches.
• Teams can opt for a new ball after the 11th over if dew is affecting conditions.
• Umpires have the final say on whether the ball should be changed.
• The rule is not applicable to afternoon games.

Saliva Ban Lifted

Another major update for IPL 2025 is the removal of the saliva ban. In 2020, BCCI prohibited the use of saliva on the ball due to Covid-19 concerns. Bowlers had to rely solely on sweat to maintain shine and aid swing. Now, with pandemic-related restrictions lifted, players can once again use saliva to condition the ball, a move expected to benefit fast bowlers in particular.

With these new rules, IPL 2025 is creating a more balanced playing field while bringing back a crucial element for bowlers. Fans and players will be eager to see how these changes impact the competition.

Adopting to the Rule Changes Will Benefit your Dream 11 Fantasy Results

The second new ball rule in IPL 2025 could also be a game-changer for fantasy cricket. Fast bowlers who operate in the second innings could see a major boost, especially those who bowl at the death. A fresh ball after the 11th over means more swing and seam movement, which could lead to extra wickets. If you’re picking your fantasy team, pacers like Jasprit Bumrah, Jofra Archer, or Mohammed Siraj might be smart choices.

Spinners, on the other hand, might struggle. A harder ball doesn’t grip as much, making life tougher for wrist spinners like Yuzvendra Chahal or Rashid Khan. If you’re banking on spin, it might be safer to pick those who bowl early in the first innings before the ball is changed.

Top-order batters could also benefit, especially in the first innings. The second new ball rule helps them play their shots without worrying about excessive wear and tear on the ball. If a team is batting first, players like Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, or David Warner could make solid picks. However, middle-order batsmen in the second innings might have a harder time dealing with a fresh ball under lights.

The dew factor still plays a role, as umpires will decide if a new ball is needed based on conditions. If there’s heavy dew, batting could still get easier despite the rule. Keep an eye on pitch reports before finalizing your team.

All-rounders who can bowl seam might see more opportunities, making players like Ben Stokes and Marcus Stoinis more valuable. Death-over specialists could also be strong captain or vice-captain options in your fantasy team.