The IPL 2023 kicked off in a spectacular manner and created a lot of hype, particularly about the Impact Player rule. According to Sunil Gavaskar, teams may need time to adapt to this new rule. He also highlighted that this rule has the potential to alter the dynamics of cricket games.
Under the Impact Player rule, teams are required to select five substitute players, from which one can be chosen at any stage of the match. To utilize an overseas impact player, teams must limit themselves to a maximum of three overseas players in their playing 11. This rule was previously implemented in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022.
Sunil Gavaskar on the impact player rule
During the opening match between GT and CSK, GT made a substitution by bringing in Sai Sudharshan to replace the injured Kane Williamson during their chase, while CSK included Tushar Deshpande as an additional bowling option, replacing Ambati Rayudu. The Impact Player rule is expected to add excitement and revive the IPL 2023, particularly since the reintroduction of home and away venues promises competitive pitches. It will be intriguing to observe how this rule unfolds.
During an interaction with Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar discussed the new regulations that allow teams to modify their playing 11 after the toss, as well as the Impact Player Rule.
“You need some time to understand new rules and acclimatize with new playing conditions. The same will be the case with all ten teams in the TATA IPL 2023. They will need some time to ace it,” Gavaskar said.
Harbhajan Singh, a former India cricketer, praised the IPL think tank for introducing this creative rule.
“It’s a very innovative move as you can now replace a player whom you feel is not suitable or has served his purpose with someone who can make an impact in the current playing conditions. So, kudos to BCCI, it’s a very good rule,” he said.
