The Indian Premier League (IPL) introduced a new rule in 2023 called the “Impact Player” rule. This innovation added a strategic element to the tournament, allowing for the first time a substitute player to be used in the IPL. Let’s explore how this impact player rule in IPL works.
Substitutes in Cricket
In cricket, substitutes are traditionally covered under Law 24 of the Laws of Cricket. Substitutes have always been part of cricket, but until recent years, they couldn’t bat or bowl. Unlike other sports like football or basketball, substitutes in cricket were only allowed to field, not actively contribute to batting or bowling.
In 2019, international cricket introduced the “Concussion Substitute” rule, which allows a player to be replaced if they suffer a head injury. The replacement must be a similar type of player, such as a batsman replacing a concussed batsman. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a similar rule was adopted, allowing players to be substituted for health reasons.
However, the IPL’s “Impact Player” rule is unique as it allows the substitute to bat and bowl, adding a new dynamic aspect to the game.
How Does the “Impact Player” Rule Work?
The “Impact Player” rule was a significant addition to the IPL in 2023. Under this rule, each team can substitute one player during a match. The substitution can occur at specific points in the game, such as before an innings begins, at the end of an over, when a wicket falls, or when a batter retires. The substitute player must come from a list of four pre-selected players announced before the toss.
The replaced player cannot participate further in the match, not even as a fielder. The “Impact Player” can bowl their full quota of overs and bat if required. Importantly, if a team starts with the maximum four overseas players, the substitute must be an Indian player.
This rule makes the game more tactical, giving teams an opportunity to adapt their strategies mid-match.
READ MORE:
