Despite criticism swirling around the "Impact Player" rule in this season's IPL, former India coach Ravi Shastri and seasoned spinner Ravichandran Ashwin have thrown their support behind it. They argue that it brings about more nail-biting finishes to matches.
The controversial rule, introduced last season, has sparked heated debate this time around. Some experts and current players fear it could diminish the role of all-rounders in the game.
Shastri addressed the criticism, stating, "When any new rule comes in, there will be people who will try to justify why that's not right." However, he believes that over time, as fans witness high-scoring games and individuals seizing opportunities, opinions might shift.
Backing the evolution of the game, Shastri praised the Impact Player rule during a conversation on Ashwin's YouTube channel. "The Impact Player (rule) is good. You have to evolve with the times," he remarked. "I think it's a good rule. You saw the number of tight finishes we had in last year's IPL. So, it has made a big difference."
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah emphasized that the rule's permanence isn't guaranteed. "Impact Player is like a test case. We have implemented it slowly," he explained. Shah highlighted the rule's benefit of providing more chances for Indian players but hinted that its fate depends on feedback from players, franchises, and broadcasters.
India skipper Rohit Sharma, along with Axar Patel and Mukesh Kumar from Delhi Capitals, expressed reservations about the rule. "I genuinely feel it is going to hold back the development of all-rounders because eventually cricket is played by 11 players, not 12," Rohit had stated earlier.
The debate over the Impact Player rule is set to continue, with its fate likely to be decided after the World Cup, as Shah indicated.
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