3 ways IPL 2020 is likely to be different

#2 Day matches may be reduced

IPL 2019 Eliminator - Delhi v Sunrisers

In the meeting, the possibility of reducing the number of day matches was discussed. Also, matches could have an early start. However, a final decision on the same has not been made yet. Last month, an Indian Express report claimed that IPL 2020 could be a bit longer as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is exploring the option of more night games.

As per the report, BCCI is working on a plan as per which each team will have to play only one day game in the entire season and also fewer double-headers on weekends. The report also added that BCCI is also keen to have a 7 pm start for evening matches instead of 8 pm.

#1 Specialist umpire for no-balls

Lasith Malinga's no ball that was missed by umpire in IPL 2019

The biggest takeaway from the IPL Governing Council meeting was the discussion over the possibility of a specialist umpire to only monitor no-balls. It may be recalled that in IPL 2019 there was a big furore after the umpire failed to spot a no-ball from Mumbai Indians’ Lasith Malinga in the match against Royal Challengers Bangalore. It was the last ball of the match, and RCB needed seven to win. After the game, RCB skipper Virat Kohli blasted umpire S. Ravi, stating this was not a club game.

A member of the IPL Governing Council confirmed to Sportstar,

“There will be a specialised umpire for this, who will work in co-ordination with the on-field umpires and the third umpire. This is an effort to reduce errors.”

The said idea is first likely to be tried in some domestic tournaments as well.