Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag became the latest IPL 2025 player to face the much-talked-about bat gauge test, and the scene sparked quite a reaction, most notably from Indian cricket legend Rahul Dravid, who looked visibly unamused as events unfolded. The moment came when Riyan stepped onto the field to replace skipper Sanju Samson, who had retired hurt after suffering a rib injury.
As per the updated BCCI regulations for IPL 2025, on-field umpires are now authorised to conduct bat checks using a gauge to ensure compliance with size standards. While the rule is clear, its implementation has stirred mixed reactions.
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As Riyan arrived at the crease, the umpires ran the bat through the gauge and determined that it did not meet the standard. The right-hander was asked to swap his bat before taking strike. Clearly unimpressed, Riyan tried explaining something to the umpires, perhaps alluding to a previous dressing-room check. Cameras soon caught a glimpse of Dravid in the dugout—his face neutral, but his eyes said plenty.
The umpires are doing their job and #RiyanParag’s bat is under scrutiny! 🧐
Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/nbBEFOkjkM #IPLonJioStar 👉 #DCvRR | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/o68pxrSrje
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 16, 2025
Commentator Graeme Swann quipped, “Riyan Parag has just about passed the batometer. There were some issues, but he managed to squeeze it through.” Another voice chimed in: “He’s probably telling the umpire they already checked it backstage. Why again?”
Riyan eventually continued with a compliant bat, but the whole episode only added to the growing chatter around the gauge checks. He wasn’t the only one caught in this web—Sunil Narine and Anrich Nortje also had their bats rejected a day earlier during Kolkata Knight Riders’ clash against Punjab Kings in Mullanpur.
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While the BCCI’s push for standardisation is understandable, these repeated interruptions have left many, including players and fans, questioning the consistency and necessity of such in-game delays.
