Explained: Why are Umpires Checking Bats Mid-Game in IPL 2025?

The 2025 IPL season has thrown up some big-hitting fireworks, but there's also been a curious sight that’s caught the attention of fans – umpires pausing the action to check bats with a gauge right on the field. What started off as the occasional spot-check has now become a standard part of the game.

BCCI secretary and IPL chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that every batter will now be required to pass their bat through an on-field bat gauge before taking strike. It’s a move aimed at closing the loopholes in bat regulation and ensuring a level playing field for everyone. “Nobody should feel that somebody's got an undue advantage,” Dhumal told The Indian Express. “The BCCI and IPL have always taken steps to maintain the fairness of the game. With this new initiative, we’re just trying to make sure that the spirit of cricket remains intact.” 

Previously, bat checks were done the day before a match. But that system had its flaws — players could easily swap out their approved bats for thicker, non-compliant ones during the game. The new in-game check eliminates that risk. 

And it’s already had an impact. During the match between KKR and Punjab Kings on 15th April, three KKR players — Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Anrich Nortje — were asked to change their bats after they failed the gauge test. Narine was flagged before the innings began, Russell was stopped when he walked out to bat, and Nortje was tested later during his innings. In all three cases, the gauge couldn’t pass through the thickest part of their bats, and they were made to switch to legal ones. 

The rules are pretty clear — bats can’t be wider than 4.25 inches, and the depth must stay under 2.64 inches. Even the edges and covering material have strict limits. And now, if a bat doesn’t glide cleanly through the gauge, it’s simply not allowed. With scores pushing past 200 regularly this season, it’s no surprise the IPL is tightening the screws on equipment. This isn’t just about rules — it’s about keeping the game honest and making sure batters and bowlers are playing on equal footing.