In a development that has stirred debate across the Indian Premier League (IPL) circuit, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)‘s recent decision to revise match timings mid-season has come under scrutiny. The adjustment regarding adding additional time for rain-affected games has not gone down well with franchises, especially Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)who recently suffered a crucial washout against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) which ended their playoff aspirations.

KKR raises questions over mid-season rule change

Venky Mysorethe Chief Executive Officer of KKR, has taken a strong stance on the issue, addressing his concerns directly to IPL Chief Operating Officer Hemang amin. In his communication, Mysore emphasized that the sudden extension of permissible playing time could have changed the outcome of their rain-impacted fixture in Bengaluru.

“When the IPL re-started on May 17, it was clear the match between KKR and RCB was at high risk due to rain. The forecast was available for everyone to see,” wrote Mysore as quoted by Cricbuzz.

“The game was washed out, but if the 120-minute buffer now being applied had existed then, at least a 5-over contest might have been possible,” he added.

Notably, KKR’s hopes for playoff qualification were hanging by a thread going into the Bengaluru match. The rain-induced no-result not only cost them valuable points but also momentum at a crucial juncture of the season. Currently placed sixth on the points table with 12 points from 13 games, the maximum they can reach is 14—insufficient to guarantee a place in the top four.

“The washout ended KKR’s chances of making the playoffs. Such ad hoc decisions and inconsistencies of applying them are not appropriate for a tournament of this standing,” Mysore explained.

This isn’t the first time weather has hurt KKR this season. Another one of their fixtures was also washed out, making the impact of scheduling and match regulations all the more significant.

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What is the new rule of additional time?

The BCCI introduced the rule change following a Governing Council meeting, amending playing condition 13.7.3 to account for potential weather interruptions. Under the new directive, a 7:30 PM start time (IST) can now be delayed until 9:30 PM without any reduction in overs. Earlier, matches had only a one-hour grace period. The new guideline means that a five-over match could theoretically begin close to midnight. The revised rule is in effect for the remaining eight matches of the league stage.