Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has thrown his weight behind the controversial Impact Player rule introduced in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL). While the rule has been met with mixed reactions, Ashwin believes it offers strategic advantages that enhance the overall game.
During a conversation on Kris Srikkanth’s YouTube show ‘Cheeky Cheeka’, Ashwin emphasized the strategic value the rule provides, stating, “Why I think the Impact Player rule is not so bad is because it gives a little more value for strategy.” He directly addressed the concerns that the rule might hinder the development of all-rounders, arguing that players still have the freedom to pursue both batting and bowling. He asserted, “In this generation, they don’t do it [batters bowling and vice-versa]. It’s not like they’re discouraged because of the Impact Player rule.”
The Impact Player rule allows teams to substitute one player during a match, enabling tactical adjustments. While Indian captain Rohit Sharma has expressed concerns that the rule could hinder the growth of all-rounders in Indian cricket, Ashwin used examples to support his argument. He pointed to Qualifier 2 of IPL 2024, where Sunrisers Hyderabad introduced Shahbaz Ahmed as an Impact Substitute. Ahmed’s three-wicket haul for just 23 runs significantly impacted the match’s outcome, proving the rule’s potential to turn the tide.
Ashwin explained, “Sunrisers [Hyderabad] brought in Shahbaz Ahmed as an Impact Player [vs Rajasthan Royals, after hitting 175 for 9 batting first]; he went on to become a match-winner [with 3 for 23]. When dew has the potential to make games one-sided, teams bowling second get an extra option as a counter.”
He further elaborated on the rule’s impact on match dynamics, stating, “If you’re batting second, you can tactically make a substitution by offloading the extra bowler for a batter. Games are tighter, and an extra player is getting to play.” He also observed that, despite venues like Kolkata and Mumbai often producing high scores, other locations have witnessed more balanced contests with scores ranging from 160 to 170.
Ashwin highlighted the Impact Player rule’s role in facilitating the emergence of several players in Indian cricket. He cited Shahbaz Ahmed, Shivam Dube, and Dhruv Jurel as examples, stating, “If not for the Impact Player rule, he may have never gotten the chance. So the emergence of a lot of players has happened. I’m not saying that’s the only way for players to emerge, but it’s not so bad.”
While opinions on the Impact Player rule remain varied, Ashwin’s comments emphasize the strategic depth it can add to the game. The rule encourages innovation and provides new avenues for players to showcase their skills in the highly competitive environment of the IPL.
