IPL 2024 FAQs: What's in store for cricket fans? New rules, venues, skippers and more

IPL 2024 FAQs: The excitement of IPL 2024 is set to begin on March 22 as Chennai Super Kings will lock horns with Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has only revealed the schedule for the initial 21 matches until April 7, with the rest to follow. The tournament's finale is anticipated to take place on May 26.

Any changes in match count and timings?

This season will feature 70 league matches, similar to last year's format, with each team playing 14 matches. Playoffs will see the top four teams advancing, including Qualifier 1, an Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the final. Matches commence at 8.00 PM IST for the opening ceremony and 7.30 PM IST on single-game days. Double-headers will start at 3.30 pm IST and 7.30 pm IST, respectively.

Who's leading which team? Any new captains?

Key leadership changes occurred this year, notably with Hardik Pandya returning to Mumbai Indians and taking over from Rohit Sharma. Shubman Gill will helm Gujarat Titans in Pandya's absence. Rishabh Pant will resume captaincy for Delhi Capitals, replacing David Warner. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins will lead Sunrisers Hyderabad in place of Aiden Markram, while Shreyas Iyer is making his return as KKR's captain, succeeding Nitish Rana.

Where are matches taking place? Any new venues?

Most teams maintain their home venues, with a few exceptions. However, Punjab Kings shifts to Mullanpur for most home games, debuting a new venue. Delhi Capitals begin with games in Visakhapatnam before returning to Delhi.

• CSK - Chennai
• KKR - Kolkata
• Lucknow Super Giants - Lucknow
• Mumbai - Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
• RCB - Bengaluru
• Sunrisers - Uppal, Hyderabad
• Titans - Ahmedabad

Any new rules for this season?

In this season, two bouncers per over are allowed to level the playing field. Moreover, the Impact Player rule continues, and a Smart Replay System debuts for faster and more precise reviews.

Auction highlights: Who were big days?

The auctions witnessed record-breaking bids, notably with Pat Cummins becoming the costliest IPL purchase at INR 20.5 crore for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders secured Mitchell Starc for INR 24.75 crore, setting a new benchmark. Other notable purchases include Daryl Mitchell by Chennai Super Kings, Harshal Patel by Punjab Kings, and Alzarri Joseph by Royal Challengers Bangalore.