Former coach Ravi Shastri praised the IPL’s Impact Player rule for creating exciting finishes, sparking debate about its effect on all-rounder development.
The “Impact Player” rule, a new addition to the IPL in 2024, has become a hot topic of debate. The rule allows teams to bring in a 12th player during a match, replacing someone from the original XI, depending on the situation. Former Indian coach Ravi Shastri is a strong supporter of the rule, crediting it for creating thrilling finishes in the IPL.
“The Impact Player [rule] is good. You have to evolve with the times. You know, it happens in other sports as well. It’s got tighter finishes. You have to evolve with the times, and I think it’s a good rule. You saw the number of tight finishes we had in last year’s IPL. So, you know, it has made a big difference,” Shastri told Ravichandran Ashwin on his YouTube channel, as quoted by NDTV.
“You know, when any new rule comes in, there will be people who will try and justify why that’s not right. But in time, when you see the scores—200 and 190—and then, like you mentioned, individuals grabbing that opportunity and making the most of it, people will start re-looking at how they think about it,” Shastri said.
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Several prominent figures in the IPL have voiced concerns. Indian captain Rohit Sharma believes the rule hinders all-rounder development, stating “cricket is played by 11 players, not 12.” Similarly, Kolkata Knight Riders bowler Mitchell Starc linked the rule to high scores and bowlers’ struggles. Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting, while recognising the entertainment value, admitted he does not personally like the rule’s impact on strategy.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Jay Shah, acknowledged the rule is not permanent. He highlighted the benefit of allowing two extra Indian players in each team but emphasised that a decision on its future will be made after consulting players and coaches.
Last Updated on May 14, 2024
