‘The Impact Player rule changes things a fair bit’ – Mitchell Starc latest to criticise substitution rule

Mitchell Starc. (Source -IPL/BCCI)

Mitchell Starc spoke about the ramifications of the Impact Player rule on high scores in IPL 2024. The left-arm pacer was in the press conference after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) in the latest game. For the first time since 2012, KKR won a game against MI at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai thanks to outstanding performances by Venkatesh Iyer and Mitchell Starc.

Starc claimed that the batters know that batting deep is an advantage and added that the nature of the pitches and boundary sizes do not help the bowlers. The Australian felt that the all-rounders batting as low as number 8 or 9 has meant a long batting order which has induced no fear among the batters in the Powerplay overs. While Starc acknowledged that there has been brilliant batting, he did feel that the batters have more confidence with the Impact Player rule.

“The Impact Player rule changes things a fair bit. There’s no fear in the powerplay when all you have to do is to clear the infield and score runs,” claimed Starc.

When asked about the dynamics of international cricket, the experienced pacer believed that the team balance and the all-rounders would come back into the equation at the highest level.

“Captains have to think a bit tactically, too, when you have just 11 players. It’s been interesting to experience it first-hand in the IPL,” added Starc.

Also Read: ‘If 12 players are not playing at international level, then what’s the need for it in IPL?’ – Mukesh Kumar on Impact Player rule

It’s trying to help KKR win the tournament – Mitchell Starc

The left-arm pacer then spoke about his bowling against MI. After having a rough patch, the KKR pacer returned to form by claiming 4/33 in his spell against MI. He felt that assessing conditions was key. Starc added that he did not change anything and just varied lengths according to the situation. The Australian pacer hoped to contribute to the team’s success in the latter part of the tournament in the important games.

Starc also highlighted the fact that playing in the IPL has helped him to prepare for the T20 WC 2024. The KKR pacer believed that T20 cricket is not as demanding as Test cricket and hoped to stay focused.

“My main focus is to play in Lucknow in two days’ time. The World Cup is next month – at this moment, it’s [about] trying to help KKR win the tournament,” concluded Starc.