IPL 2025: Second ball rule applied for the first time in RR vs KKR

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match between Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 in Guwahati saw the much-debated second-ball rule come into play for the first time this season. Rajasthan Royals, under stand-in captain Riyan Parag, requested a ball change in the 17th over in a last-ditch attempt to shift momentum, but it was not enough to turn the game around.

Despite implementing the new rule, Rajasthan Royals slumped to their second consecutive defeat, losing to KKR by eight wickets. Quinton de Kock's brilliant unbeaten 97 off 61 balls ensured a comfortable chase of 152 on a slow pitch.

The second ball rule,



introduced this season to counter the impact of dew in evening matches, allows teams to request a ball change after the tenth over of the second innings. However, the decision ultimately rests with the umpires, and the replacement ball must be a like-for-like swap rather than a completely new one.

While the rule aims to provide a fair playing field, reactions from fans and former cricketers have been mixed. Some argue that it reduces the advantage for chasing teams on dewy surfaces, while others believe it disrupts the natural flow of the game.

For Rajasthan Royals, the rule change made little difference as KKR executed their chase flawlessly.