BCCI tightens dress code in IPL 2026, bans sleeveless jerseys and floppy hats at prize ceremonies

News India Live, Digital Desk: Before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) seems to be in a mood of complete discipline. The board has issued new and strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all the 10 franchise teams. This time, along with the players’ game, their ‘look’ and ‘discipline’ will also be kept under close watch. According to the new rules, now players will not be able to wear sleeveless jerseys and floppy hats during the post-match presentation ceremony. This step of BCCI has been taken with the aim of further improving the professional image of the league.1. ‘Professional look’ mandatory in presentation BCCI has clarified that the post-match presentation is an official ceremony which is watched by crores of people across the world. Players would often wear sleeveless kits or floppy hats to relax after matches, which is now considered ‘unprofessional’. Rules: Players will only be allowed to attend presentations in full or half-sleeve official team jerseys and standard caps. Purpose: To create uniformity in players’ looks and ensure visibility of sponsors’ logos (which are often on sleeves) during broadcasts.2. Warning on the first mistake, direct penalty on the second. BCCI has also made a provision for punishment to implement this rule. If a player is found violating this dress code for the first time, he will be given an official warning. But, if the same mistake is repeated for the second time, a financial penalty will be imposed on the player. This fine may be a part of the player’s match fee.3. Along with the dress code, the rules regarding caps have also been tightened for ‘Orange’ and ‘Purple’ caps. Orange and Purple cap holders will have to compulsorily wear their caps on the field. If a player does not choose to wear a cap, he must still wear it for at least the first two overs so that the broadcasting cameras can capture it.4. Other strict rules for dressing room and travelling: Apart from the dress code, some other major changes have been made for the 2026 season: Match Day Practice Ban: Now no team will be able to practice on the main ground on the match day so that the pitch can be kept safe. Team Bus Mandatory: It will be mandatory for the players to travel in the team bus from the hotel to the stadium. Family members will have to go in a separate vehicle. No family in dressing room: Entry of family members in the dressing room will be completely prohibited both during the match and practice day. Experts’ opinion: “Mathematics of sponsorship”. Sports experts believe that the real reason behind banning sleeveless jersey is sponsorship. IPL teams have logos of big brands on their jersey sleeves. When players wear sleeveless jerseys, those advertisements become hidden, causing losses to broadcasters and sponsors. This decision of BCCI will strengthen the commercial value of the league.