Impact Player rule set to stay in IPL despite backlash, claims Aakash Chopra

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has ignited a fresh debate about the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite growing discontent and calls for its removal, Chopra boldly defended the Impact Player rule, claiming that this rule will stay in the IPL and that it is actually benefiting the game.

The cricket expert predicted that the impact player rule will return in the upcoming IPL 2025 despite severe criticism, and he personally feels this rule is helpful in many ways. Chopra argues that the Impact Player rule addresses a critical issue in India: the lack of genuine all-rounders.

Aakash Chopra defends Impact Player rule amidst criticism; predicts this rule will stay in the IPL

He claims that while some critics believe the rule diminishes the quality of all-rounders, it’s actually fostering more balanced matches and giving opportunities to more Indian players in the IPL. Chopra points out that the rule ensures that teams don’t rely on mediocre all-rounders in the tournament.

The commentator also emphasizes that the Impact Player Rule has led to more competitive matches and increased the number of Indian players getting a chance to shine on the grand stage of the IPL. While some look at this rule as troublesome for the future, Chopra described it as a step forward, insisting that genuine all-rounders will always stand out regardless of the rule.

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel: “Whether the Impact Player rule comes back or not, who knows? I think the impact player rule is going to remain. I don't think this rule is going anywhere. A lot of people say that this rule is wrong, but personally, I think this is the right thing.”

Chopra further explained that the fans and many cricketers are concerned about where will the all-rounders come from if the rule remains in the IPL, but there are 10 IPL teams, and the 5th player is the Indian, so 10 more players are getting a chance.

Anyone can be an all-rounder, but they are not the genuine all-rounder: Aakash Chopra

The former Indian batter mentioned that even the Indian cricket team is playing an extra all-rounder, but if there is a mediocre all-rounder, then they are bringing their standard down and they might get an illusory all-rounder.

Chopra added, “You might get Venkatesh Iyer as the all-rounder. You might get Shivam Dube, Riyan Parag, and even Rinku Singh as the all-rounders. Anyone can be an all-rounder, but they are not the genuine all-rounder. Then how is it helping? Because when you reach international cricket, then it's not going to happen.

Genuine all-rounders are doing whatever they want. Because they have that capability. And that is what you want. Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel. They are all genuine all-rounders who bowl four overs and bat as well. If you belong to that category, then it's fine.”

Chopra also said that the IPL teams must be allowed to retain their core team irrespective of the numbers just like the football clubs do. He added that BCCI should change this rule, but he is well aware that it is not going to happen. He also feels the IPL mega auction should be conducted every five years.