BCCI Introduces IPL Rule: Under-19 and Under-16 Players Must Have First-Class Experience

In a new move, the BCCI has decided that Under-19 and Under-16 players must play at least one first-class match before they can take part in the IPL. This rule was announced at the board’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday. Over the years, the IPL has seen many young players make their mark, with talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre standing out in IPL 2025.

As per reports, the BCCI has decided in order for an Under-19 or Under-16 cricketer to be eligible to play in the IPL, he should have played at least one first-class match. Previously, the IPL did not have any age restrictions for players or specific rules that made it compulsory for the players to have prior experience in domestic cricket in order to play in the league. 

IPL’s New Rule: Young Players Must Have First-Class Experience

The teams were given the choice to pick players either through trials, auctions, or as mid-season replacements.

After the announcement, fans welcomed BCCI’s decision, saying it was a smart move to let young players play in the IPL only after they have some experience in domestic cricket. Many online users felt this would help maintain the quality of cricket and make sure players are ready for the big stage. Rajasthan Royals star Vaibhav Suryavanshi became the youngest player to take part in IPL afer being signed for Rs 1.10 crore before IPL 2025. He was 13 years and 243 days at the time of being bought by RR.

Other Under-19 players in the latest of the IPL indluded Ayush Mhatre, Andre Siddharth, Musheer Khan, Swasatik Chikara and South Africa’s Kwena Mphaka. Other youngsters who were part of IPL previously include Allah Ghazanfar for KKR at 15 years and 161 days in IPL 2024, and Prayas Ray Barman for RCB at 16 years of age in 2019.

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