The introduction of the IPL’s ‘Impact Player’ rule has sparked a debate, with Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma expressing his concerns regarding its impact on the development of Indian all-rounders. According to Sharma, the rule prevents players like Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube from showcasing their bowling skills.
The ‘Impact Player’ rule, which debuted in the 2023 season, allows IPL teams to substitute a player—either a batter or a bowler—during their innings based on the match’s demands.
Sharma, in a candid conversation with Michael Vaughan and Adam Gilchrist on the YouTube show Club Prairie Fire, voiced his reservations about the rule. He emphasized that cricket is played by eleven players, not twelve, and questioned the need to alter the game’s dynamics for the sake of entertainment.
The Mumbai Indians skipper stressed that players like Sundar and Dube are deprived of opportunities to bowl due to the rule, which he believes hampers their growth. Sharma highlighted the importance of player development and expressed his frank disapproval of the ‘Impact Player’ rule.
As the debate surrounding the rule continues, its impact on the overall game and the development of Indian all-rounders remains a topic of discussion among cricket enthusiasts and experts alike.
