Innovative Rules IPL Should Borrow From Other Franchise Leagues For 2026 Season

Anurag Dasgupta

New rules IPL should introduce [Source: @iplt20.com]New rules IPL should introduce [Source: @iplt20.com]

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a trailblazer in T20 cricket. It opened doors for other countries to introduce their own franchise T20 tournaments, and IPL became a household name, not only in India but across the globe. The time period between late March and the end of May is celebrated like a festival as IPL takes place during this window.

While the IPL has introduced several interesting rules over the years (including the Impact Player), there is still scope for more improvements and more innovation in the league. Here are 3 new rules the IPL should introduce before the 2026 season.

1) Power-Surge (BBL)

The power-surge was first introduced in the Big Bash League (BBL), and instead of the standard six-over powerplay, BBL had just four overs up front, where only two fielders were allowed outside the 30-yard circle. The batting team then has the luxury to take a Power-Surge after the 10-over mark. During this period, only two fielders are allowed in the circle, which allows the team batting to maximise their hitting abilities.

2) Wild Card picks (SA20)

The Wild Card picks was introduced in the SA20 League in South Africa. It is a strategic method that allows the team to bring back a player from the previous season (overseas or domestic) to strengthen the team before the auction takes place. 

Before the auction, every team has a chance to sign a former player, and the value of the Wild Card player, as in the previous year, will not be part of the player's purse. The value also need not be discussed.

3) Bonus points awarded (SA20)

The SA20 also encourages dominant wins and rewards teams if they win by a thumping margin. The winning team in the league is given four points, but if a team wins by a huge margin/dominant fashion, the team gets an added point (bonus point). This is a contrast to IPL’s two-point system and allows teams to go for landslide victories.