A rule… which changed the definition of IPL, know how teams get its strategic advantage, the 12th player will prove to be a game-changer.

New Delhi. Only a few days are left for the Indian Premier League to start. This Mahakumbh of Indian cricket will begin with the inaugural match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. But before the start of this season, the debate regarding a rule outside the field has intensified. That rule is of 'Impact Player'. Even though most of the captains and veteran players are against this rule, BCCI has made it clear that this rule is not going anywhere at the moment.

This rule, implemented in the year 2023, is one of the most revolutionary (and controversial) changes in the history of IPL. Under this, each team is allowed to substitute one player in any innings during the match. If a team is bowling first, it can field an additional specialist batsman in the second innings. If the team's upper order falls apart like a house of cards, the captain can immediately call in an extra batsman as an impact player. Similarly, the team batting in the first innings can strengthen the 'defence' by using an extra bowler in the second innings.

Why are the giants opposing this rule?
Before the start of IPL 2026, a formal meeting of the captains was held at the BCCI headquarters on 25 March. According to the report, most of the 10 captains strongly advocated abolishing this rule. Former captain Rohit Sharma, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya and Delhi Capitals captain Akshar Patel have openly said that this rule is hindering the development of all-rounders in Indian cricket. When teams have a specialist option as a 12th man, they are less likely to rely on part-time bowlers or all-rounders.

Review meeting on future of Impact Player rule to be held after 2027 season
Players believe that this rule distorts the traditional nature of the game and promotes 'power-hitting' more than strategic skill. The captains believe that the real cricket is the competition of 11 players, not 12. Despite strong opposition from players and captains, BCCI has made its position clear. According to the board, this rule will be effective for the cycle from 2025 to 2027. The next major review meeting on the future of the Impact Player rule will take place after the 2027 season. In the same meeting, it will be decided whether to continue it in the season 2028 and beyond or to return to the old tradition of 'playing eleven' (11 players).