Sourav Ganguly. (phoot Sopurce: X(Twitter)
The Impact Player rule has been a groundbreaking innovation in redefining the landscape of the Indian Premier League. Since its inception in 2023, this regulation has proven to be a significant asset for teams, allowing them to strategically deploy it in various situations. Whether introducing an explosive batter to dismantle the opposition with some power-packed hits or an additional bowler to alter the game’s complexion with crucial wickets and restricting runs, the rule has been a substantial boon, enhancing the tactical depth of the game.
In both the seasons since the rule’s implementation, the IPL has witnessed the surprising absence of super overs. Even more astounding, however, was the frequency of 250-plus scores being racked up, occurring an extraordinary eight times.
Addressing the media on the sidelines of the International Procurement and Supply Chain Conference organised by the Blue Ocean Corporation, former Indian cricketer and Director of Cricket of the Delhi Capitals, Sourav Ganguly, expressed his endorsement of the Impact Player rule, emphasizing that it heightened the excitement and grandeur of the tournament. However, he suggested a minor adjustment to the tournament’s rules: the Impact Player for each team should be declared before the toss. This change would add a strategic element, compelling teams to plan more meticulously and making the game more analytical and engaging.
“I like the Impact Player rule. “It is a great tournament. The only thing you can do with the Impact Player is decide before the toss, so it’s a bit of skill there. So, have the Impact Player revealed before because that will require a lot of skill and game plan. But, I am all for the impact player,” remarked Ganguly while addressing the media on the sidelines of the International Procurement and Supply Chain Conference organised by the Blue Ocean Corporation.
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While several players have expressed their reservations about the Impact Player rule, particularly due to the diminishing role of all-rounders as teams tend to favour specialized batsmen and bowlers, Ganguly remains optimistic. He views the Impact Player rule as a groundbreaking innovation that elevates the intensity and strategic complexity of the IPL, propelling the tournament to unprecedented heights.