IPL 2026 to Introduce 'Power Catch' Rule – 10 Runs for Stunning Catches
In a bold and surprising move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL Governing Council are reportedly set to introduce a new game-changing rule in the upcoming IPL 2026 season: the “Power Catch Rule.”
As per inside sources, fielders will now be rewarded with 10 bonus runs for pulling off extraordinary catches, especially those taken mid-air, diving, or near the boundary ropes. This initiative is designed to encourage spectacular fielding efforts and enhance the overall entertainment factor of the tournament.
What Is the ‘Power Catch’ Rule?
According to the draft rule (currently under review):
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A “Power Catch” is defined as a high-impact catch judged by:
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Difficulty (one-handed, diving, boundary-saves)
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Match situation (turning points)
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Distance covered by the fielder
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Once confirmed by third umpire and Hawk-Eye tracking data, 10 runs will be added to the fielder’s team total.
This would be the first time in cricket history where fielding directly contributes to the scoreboard – not just as a way to get batsmen out, but as a means to score.
Why the Rule?
The IPL has always been about innovation — whether it was:
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The Strategic Time-out,
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Impact Player rule, or
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Use of LED stumps and DRS.
This rule is reportedly aimed at:
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Rewarding exceptional athleticism
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Encouraging fielders to go the extra mile
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Making fielding more exciting for fans
A BCCI spokesperson allegedly said:
“Fans cheer more for a one-handed catch than a fifty. It’s time we rewarded it.”
How Will It Work?
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Only one Power Catch per innings will be allowed.
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A special "Power Catch" graphic will be shown on screen when one is awarded.
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The TV umpire and AI analytics team will evaluate the catch in real-time.
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These bonus runs will be added instantly to the batting team’s total.
This rule will reportedly be trialed in IPL pre-season exhibition matches in early 2026 before being officially introduced in the league phase.
Mixed Reactions from Players and Fans
While some cricket fans are thrilled by the idea of giving fielders more limelight, others are worried about how this could distort the balance between bat and ball.
Ravindra Jadeja, known for his acrobatic catches, is said to be in favor of the rule:
“It’s about time fielders had an impact on the scoreboard.”
On the other hand, some former cricketers like Gautam Gambhir are rumored to be skeptical, fearing it might take away from the traditional essence of the game.
Social Media Buzz
The term #PowerCatch has started trending across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Fans have already begun compiling reels of catches from past seasons, imagining how many bonus runs teams would have scored under this rule.
Some humorous fan tweets include:
“RCB would’ve won 3 IPLs if this rule existed earlier — AB de Villiers alone = 200 runs in Power Catches!”
“Just waiting for someone to fake a dive and claim 10 runs 😂 #PowerCatch"
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s met with applause or controversy, the Power Catch rule is proof that the IPL continues to evolve — pushing boundaries of innovation in cricket. While it remains to be seen how effective or balanced it will be, one thing is certain: fielders are finally getting the spotlight they deserve.
Stay tuned as IPL 2026 edges closer — and don’t blink, or you might just miss a 10-run leap into cricket history.
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