From Mahi to Millennials: IPL blends icons and upstarts in its 18th season

Eden Gardens awaits T20 extravaganza: Rain or shine, the Indian Premier League marches on

- Tridid Baparnash

The Indian Premier League is back—older, bolder, and refreshed with a host of new rules and new captains. The 18th edition of cricket's biggest T20 spectacle kicks off on Saturday at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, where defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) face perennial underachievers Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). But with thunderstorms forecasted, the glittering opener could face a soggy start.

New Rules, Fresh Twist Just days before the tournament, the BCCI introduced a slew of rule changes following a captains' meeting in Mumbai. The most headline-grabbing change is the lifting of the saliva ban—a restriction in place since the COVID-19 pandemic. While the ICC made it permanent in 2022, the IPL, with its own regulations, has brought it back after most captains gave the nod. Another notable tweak is the introduction of two new balls in the second innings of evening games. From the 11th over onwards, umpires may introduce a fresh ball if dew significantly affects play—a move to curb high-scoring chases under wet conditions. This rule won't apply to afternoon fixtures.

Additionally, the DRS has also been expanded to include height and off-side wides, ensuring fairer decision-making and fewer umpiring controversies.