In the middle of all the high-voltage IPL 2025 drama, a new controversy has shaken the tournament. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), who are already out of the playoff race, have strongly opposed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for changing the IPL rules midway through the season. According to reports, the BCCI added 120 minutes of extra time to all remaining league matches. This decision has not gone down well with KKR, who have now written an official complaint to the BCCI.
What is the Issue?
The BCCI recently updated the playing conditions in IPL 2025, allowing an extra two hours (120 minutes) to complete any rain-affected league match. This rule was earlier applicable only for the playoff games. But now, due to the India-Pakistan conflict causing delays and the upcoming monsoon rains, BCCI has extended this rule to the league matches too.
KKR, however, is not happy. Their key match against RCB on 17 May got washed out in Bengaluru. At that time, the old rule was still in effect and only 1 hour of extra time was available. If the new rule had been applied then, there might have been enough time to complete the match, and KKR could have stayed in the playoff race.
KKR’s Strong Reaction
Venky Mysore, the CEO of KKR, sent a strong email to IPL COO Hemang Amin. In the email, Mysore mentioned that these changes, although understandable due to the circumstances, should be applied consistently. He expressed disappointment that the first match after the IPL resumed, which had clear rain warnings, didn’t get the benefit of the new rule.
He wrote, “The forecast for May 17 in Bengaluru was clear. We knew rain was expected. The new rule could have allowed even a short game, but instead, our playoff hopes were washed away. These ad hoc decisions are unfair in such a big tournament.”
More Teams Also Upset
KKR is not alone. According to a report from Cricbuzz, several other franchises are also unhappy with the sudden change. They feel that altering rules midway can create unfair advantages and set a wrong example for future seasons. Many teams are worried that the league is losing its balance due to inconsistent rule enforcement.
Also Read: IPL 2025 DC vs MI: Delhi Capitals Request IPL to Shift Match Amid Rain Fear
What Does the New Rule Say?
Under the new rule, IPL matches affected by rain can now have a delayed start time of up to 9:30 PM. This means there will be no overs deducted till then. Even a 5-over match can begin as late as midnight if needed. Earlier, the cut-off time was stricter, and matches had to start earlier or get reduced in overs.
Why This Has Angered Teams
The main issue is fairness. Teams that suffered washouts before the rule change now feel punished for bad timing. The BCCI’s sudden shift has raised concerns about transparency and consistency. Fans too are questioning whether the league is being managed in a fair way for all.
How This Affects IPL 2025
With the playoff race so tight, every point matters. Teams are fighting hard for qualification, and one point gained or lost due to rain can make a huge difference. KKR’s match against RCB was one such critical game. The rule change has added fuel to an already tense atmosphere.
The IPL 2025 season is heading towards an exciting end, but controversies like this are raising serious questions. Should rules be changed mid-tournament? Is it fair to apply new conditions selectively? Fans and franchises are watching closely, and it’s now up to the BCCI to address these concerns and maintain the credibility of the league.
FAQs
Why is KKR upset with BCCI?
KKR is upset because their rain-hit match wasn’t given the same extra time that has now been allowed in other matches. They feel this cost them a playoff chance.
What is the new IPL rule?
The BCCI now allows 120 minutes of extra time to complete league matches affected by rain, same as playoffs.
Are other teams also unhappy?
Yes, other teams fear that mid-season rule changes are unfair and could create bias in the competition.
What happens if it rains in upcoming matches?
Thanks to the new rule, matches can be delayed up to 9:30 PM and still run without overs being cut.
Has BCCI responded to KKR’s complaint?
As of now, no official response has been made public, but fans and teams are expecting clarity soon.
