The Indian Super League (ISL) is set to introduce several new rules for the 2024-25 season, aimed at improving player safety, fairness, and the development of homegrown talent. These changes reflect the league’s commitment to evolving and addressing longstanding concerns from fans and stakeholders.
Concussion Substitutes
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of concussion substitutes. This rule allows teams to make an additional substitution if a player suffers a concussion due to a head impact. The opposing team will also be granted an additional substitute. This measure is designed to protect players’ health by ensuring they do not continue playing after sustaining serious injuries.
- Implementation: The substitution can be made immediately after a concussion or suspected concussion, following an assessment by the team doctor. The doctor will decide if the player is fit to continue and inform the referee using the substitution card.
- Follow-Up: The substituted player must undergo a detailed assessment by a neurologist and can only return to training or play with a medical fitness certificate.
Mandatory Indian Assistant Coach
To foster the development of Indian coaches, the ISL has mandated that each club must have an AFC Pro-licensed Indian assistant coach as part of their staff. This coach will also take over as interim head coach if the head coach vacates his position. This rule aims to ensure continuity within teams and provide opportunities for Indian coaches to gain valuable experience and exposure.
ISL 2024: Complete Schedule, Venues, New Rules & What to Expect from Indian Super League Seasonhttps://t.co/3CCPjkpgrN
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Challenging Wrongful Red Cards
Clubs will now have the right to challenge a referee’s decision to issue a red card if they believe it was wrongful. This rule, implemented by the All India Football Federation (AIFF), aims to reduce the number of unjust suspensions and improve the overall fairness of the game.
- Procedure: To file an appeal, the player or club must notify the match commissioner within two hours of the match ending and submit it in writing with evidence and the fee to AIFF within 24 hours. The AIFF Disciplinary Committee will review the appeal before the start of any automatic suspension
- Outcome: If the claim is accepted, the suspension will be withdrawn, and the fee refunded.
Home-Grown Player Salary Cap
In a move to encourage the development of young talent, clubs can now exclude three of their home-grown U-23 players from the existing salary cap rule. A player is considered homegrown if they have been contracted with the same club for a minimum of three consecutive years. This rule is expected to provide more opportunities for young Indian players to showcase their talent and secure better financial terms.
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