IPL's Impact Player rule a flop or game-changer? Wasim Jaffer gives striking verdict
Published - 10 Apr 2024, 03:19 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:10 AM
Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer discussed the "Impact Player" rule in the context of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Wasim Jaffer emphasized that this rule has extended team batting line-ups, resulting in higher scores throughout the ongoing tournament.
The IPL introduced the Impact Player rule in the previous season, allowing teams to designate five substitutes at the toss, with one of them serving as the Impact Player. This designated player has the flexibility to function as either a bowler or a batter for the duration of the match.
Several teams capitalized on the Impact Player rule in last year's IPL tournament, and the trend continues this year. Each team can pick a single Impact Player in any given match, during breaks in the game, such as at the start of innings, between overs, and after wickets fall.
However, this rule reduces the reliance on all-rounders in T20 teams. Previously, teams typically consisted of six batters, four bowlers, and one all-rounder for balance. With this rule, teams can optimize their lineup without needing any all-rounders in the playing XI.
Teams now have the flexibility to field six specialist batters and five bowlers, adjusting their lineup based on match conditions. This rule, now implemented in domestic matches as well, enables teams to maintain balance without relying on all-rounders in the lineup.
It's Given More Indian Uncapped Players A Chance - Wasim Jaffer
The gamechanger of this IPL has been the Impact Player rule. It has lengthened the batting orders ensuring a high scoring season so far. Two 270+ scores plus multiple 200+ totals. More importantly it's given more Ind uncapped players a chance to showcase their skills. #IPL2024
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) April 10, 2024
Wasim Jaffer emphasized the significant influence of the Impact Player rule in IPL 2024. He highlighted its role in extending batting line-ups and contributing to high scores. Jaffer also noted that the rule has created more opportunities for uncapped Indian players to showcase their talents.
"The game-changer of this IPL has been the Impact Player rule. It has lengthened the batting orders ensuring a high-scoring season so far. Two 270+ scores plus multiple 200+ totals. More importantly, it's given more Ind uncapped players a chance to showcase their skills," Jaffer posted on X (formerly known as Twitter).
In IPL 2024, several matches have witnessed high-scoring encounters, with teams surpassing 270 runs while batting first. Notably, the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) scored 277 against the Mumbai Indians (MI), who also posted 246 in response.
The Kolkata Knight Riders achieved a formidable total of 272/7 in Vizag and clinched victory by a commanding margin of 106 runs.
Highest Totals in IPL history
| Team | Score | Innings | Versus | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SRH | 277/3 | 1 | MI | Hyderabad | 27 Mar 2024 |
| KKR | 272/7 | 1 | DC | Visakhapatnam | 3 Apr 2024 |
| RCB | 263/5 | 1 | Warriors | Bengaluru | 23 Apr 2013 |
| LSG | 257/5 | 1 | Punjab Kings | Mohali | 28 Apr 2023 |
| RCB | 248/3 | 1 | Guj Lions | Bengaluru | 14 May 2016 |
| CSK | 246/5 | 1 | RR | Chennai | 3 Apr 2010 |
| MI | 246/5 | 2 | SRH | Hyderabad | 27 Mar 2024 |
| KKR | 245/6 | 1 | Kings XI | Indore | 12 May 2018 |
| CSK | 240/5 | 1 | Kings XI | Mohali | 19 Apr 2008 |
| CSK | 235/4 | 1 | KKR | Eden Gardens | 23 Apr 2023 |
The upcoming IPL 2024 match will feature the Rajasthan Royals facing off against the Gujarat Titans (GT) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Wednesday, April 10.
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