The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 introduced the ‘Impact Player’ rule ahead of the season, aiming to add more excitement to the T20 league. However, the move has sparked mixed reactions within the cricketing community, with many expressing concerns, including Team India captain Rohit Sharma.
In a recent podcast appearance on Club Prairie Fire with Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan, Rohit Sharma voiced his reservations about the rule, particularly its impact on the development of all-rounders. He criticized the rule for potentially hindering players like Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube from showcasing their skills fully.
Expressing his dissent, Rohit Sharma stated, “I’m not a big fan of Impact Player (rule). You are taking out so much from the game just to make it a little entertaining for the people.” His remarks highlight the broader concern among players and fans about the rule’s implications on the traditional dynamics of the game.
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Recognizing the ongoing criticism, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has indicated openness to review the rule. Arun Dhumal, the chairman of the IPL governing council, stated that discussions would be held with all stakeholders to evaluate the rule’s effectiveness. He emphasized that the rule is not mandatory and could be modified or even removed based on feedback.
There are for & against views for the Impact rule which was approved by the technical committee of the BCCI well in advance. I don’t remember any expert raising objection. Now suddenly everyone is concerned about allrounders not getting opportunities.
— Makarand Waingankar (@wmakarand) April 20, 2024
Arun Dhumal stated, “Now that such an observation has been made, we will definitely look into it… nothing is cast in stone about its implementation.” This statement reflects a willingness to prioritize the integrity of the game while ensuring an entertaining experience for fans.
Rohit Sharma’s concerns come amidst India’s preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in June 2024. With the Impact Player rule not applicable in international tournaments, the focus remains on selecting a balanced squad capable of delivering results on the global stage.
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Meanwhile, reports suggest that players like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube face uncertainties regarding their roles due to the Impact Player rule. Pandya’s inclusion in the World Cup squad remains uncertain, given his limited bowling opportunities and reduced efficiency. Similarly, Dube’s role in the CSK team has been affected by the rule, potentially impacting his chances of representing India in the middle order.
