Since its introduction, several players, including former India captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have voiced their displeasure with the rule. The CSK legend said the contest between bat and ball has become somewhat lopsided in favour of the batters due to the rule. Former India batter Suresh Raina has criticised the Impact Player rule, which has been in use in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since the 2023 season. Teams have frequently breached the 250-run mark over the past few seasons, and there have been several instances of such totals being chased down.
Raina Criticizes Impact Player Rule in Indian Cricket League
Suresh Raina has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to rethink the Impact Player rule, emphasizing that its continuation could hinder the league’s growth. He expressed his disapproval during a conversation with former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra.
Raina stated, “I am against the Impact player rule. A lot of fit players also bat and just sit down. How will you improve? There is no such rule in the World Cup. I understand the entertainment factor, but there is nothing left for the bowlers. Earlier, 170 was a competitive score, but now 250 is being chased as well. Even 300 is possible.”
He also suggested that Indian players should not be allowed in certain contexts, noting, “Our league has become very big. When we used to go on Australia and England tours before, I used to ask this. I had come close to playing as well, but then they said no.”
Cricket Team Solidifies Dominance Amid Global Changes
A prominent player noted a shift in the cricket landscape, emphasizing that while foreign leagues have diminished in quality, their own team’s strength remains formidable. “Now, a lot of outside players come here, and the quality of foreign leagues has also gone down. Back then, I would have definitely said yes. But at this time, we are ruling the world. Cricket is going somewhere else, and our team is very solid,” he explained. This statement reflects the current confidence within the team as they navigate an evolving global cricket environment.
