The official commentary panel for IPL 2025 was unveiled on Friday, and notably absent was former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan, who has been a regular fixture in previous seasons. Reports suggest that Pathan’s exclusion stems from complaints by several Indian cricketers who felt his critical on-air remarks were personally motivated.

According to reports, one player was so upset with Pathan’s comments during the Australia series that he blocked the former cricketer’s phone number. A source close to the development stated, “Otherwise, his (Pathan’s) name would have been there. It’s been happening for the last two years as he was carrying personal agendas against certain players, and that didn’t sit well with the system.”

This isn’t the first time a high-profile commentator has faced repercussions due to player dissatisfaction. In the past, renowned voices like Sanjay Manjrekar and Harsha Bhogle have also been sidelined from commentary duties after cricketers expressed displeasure with their on-air opinions.

In 2020, Manjrekar was reportedly dropped from the BCCI commentary panel for India’s ODI series against South Africa. This decision followed a series of controversies in 2019, including a public spat with Bhogle, a dig at former captain Sourav Ganguly, and his description of Ravindra Jadeja as a “bits and pieces player.”

Reacting to his exclusion, Manjrekar had posted on X (formerly Twitter), “I have always considered commentary as a great privilege, but never an entitlement. It is up to my employers whether they choose to have me or not, and I will always respect that. Maybe BCCI has not been happy with my performance of late. I accept that as a professional.”

Similarly, just days before IPL 2016, Harsha Bhogle was removed from the commentary roster without explanation. Bhogle later expressed his confusion on Facebook, writing, “I still don’t know why I am not doing the IPL. I can accept the fact that people don’t like me. But I genuinely hope it isn’t because cricketers have complained about what I have to say.”

As Kolkata Knight Riders prepare to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2025 opener at Eden Gardens, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a series of significant rule changes that will come into effect from this season.

Second ball rule to tackle dew

In a bid to address the impact of dew in night matches, the BCCI has introduced a new provision allowing the bowling side in the second innings to request a change of ball once after the 10th over. The decision, approved unanimously by all franchise captains in a recent meeting, aims to aid bowlers—particularly spinners—who often struggle to grip the wet ball.

According to the new rule, the bowling captain can request a ball change, even if dew is not visibly present. Umpires will be required to replace the ball with one that is similarly worn, although teams will not have the option to choose the replacement ball.

KKR spinner Varun Chakravarthy welcomed the move, saying it may help spinners regain control in crucial middle overs. RCB coach Andy Flower also backed the change, highlighting the strategic flexibility it provides to captains.

Saliva ban officially lifted

Another key update for IPL 2025 is the removal of the ban on using saliva to shine the ball. The ban, originally imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic and later made permanent by the ICC, has now been reversed by the IPL following discussions with all 10 teams. Bowlers can now return to traditional ball-shining methods starting this season. However, both Varun Chakravarthy and Andy Flower downplayed its significance in the T20 format during pre-match press interactions.

New Code of Conduct with demerit points

The BCCI has also rolled out a new Code of Conduct that introduces a demerit points system and suspension points valid for a span of 36 months. This replaces the earlier rule where captains could be banned for one match after three over-rate violations.

DRS expanded to include wide and no-ball reviews

The Decision Review System (DRS) has been upgraded as well. Teams will now be able to challenge height-based no-ball calls and off-stump wide deliveries. Advanced technology like Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking will be used to assist the third umpire in reviewing these decisions.

Golden Badge for champions

In a symbolic move, the BCCI has introduced a ‘Golden Badge’ for defending champions. This year, KKR will be the first team to don the golden emblem on their shirts throughout the season, recognising their 2024 title win.

As cricket fever returns with the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League, fans can look forward to a grand start with a star-studded opening ceremony scheduled for Saturday, March 22, at the historic Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Before the season opener between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the stadium will light up with performances from renowned singer Shreya Ghosal, Punjabi artist Karan Aujla, and Bollywood actress Disha Patani.

Grand performances ahead of KKR vs RCB clash

The IPL’s traditional curtain-raiser will kick off at 6 PM IST, with musical and dance performances meant to set the festive tone of the season. Shreya Ghosal’s soulful vocals, Karan Aujla’s energetic Punjabi beats, and Disha Patani’s glam act are expected to be the highlight of the evening.

Rain may dampen ceremony, match in doubt

However, the celebration faces an uncertain forecast. As per latest weather predictions, drizzles are likely between 5 PM and 11 PM IST, raising concerns over potential delays or even cancellation of the opening ceremony and the first match.

How to watch IPL 2025 opening ceremony live

Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Date: Saturday, March 22

Time: 6 PM IST

Live telecast: Star Sports Network

Live streaming: JioHotstar app and website

Fans are advised to keep an eye on weather updates and tune in early to not miss the live performances and the toss updates for the KKR vs RCB clash.