Unprecedented On-Field Bat Checks Conducted During IPL 2025 Matches in Jaipur and Delhi

In a rare and unexpected move, on-field umpires in two IPL 2025 matches conducted bat dimension checks on several batters as they walked out to the crease on April 13. The incidents took place during the afternoon clash between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Jaipur, and the evening encounter between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians in Delhi.

Traditionally, such checks are carried out off the field, either during pre-match equipment inspections or in the dressing rooms. However, in a notable shift from the norm, umpires performed the bat checks in full view of the public, directly on the field of play.

During the Jaipur game, umpires Nitin Menon and Saidharshan Kumar checked the bats of multiple players, including Shimron Hetmyer, Nitish Rana, and Phil Salt, as they made their way to the middle. Later in the day, during the high-voltage match in Delhi, umpires Chris Gaffaney and Vinod Seshan stopped Hardik Pandya to inspect his bat using a specially designed gauge. All bats passed the checks and were found to be within the permissible limits.

According to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Laws of Cricket, which govern the bat dimensions, the following rules apply:

• Maximum bat face width: 10.79 cm

• Maximum blade thickness: 6.7 cm

• Maximum edge thickness: 4 cm

• Maximum length of bat: 96.4 cm

Umpires used a bat gauge to ensure compliance, sliding the blade through a measuring device to verify its dimensions. The reason for the sudden implementation of these checks on the field remains unclear, with no official statement from the IPL governing body or match officials as of yet.

The incident has sparked curiosity among fans and analysts, as on-field checks of this nature are almost unheard of in modern professional cricket. While none of the bats were found in violation, the public display of scrutiny has raised questions about whether a new directive has been issued to enhance equipment regulation during the tournament.

With the IPL known for setting trends in global cricket, this development may point to a broader push for transparency and fairness, especially in a season where margins between teams remain razor-thin.

As the tournament progresses, it remains to be seen whether such on-field equipment inspections will become a standard feature or were merely isolated incidents.