New Delhi, Apr 8:
Delhi Capitals pacer Kyle Jamieson joined a growing chorus of players criticising the IPL’s controversial Impact Player rule, saying it “takes a lot of the skill out of the game.
Several current and former cricketers have voiced concerns over the rule, which allows teams to substitute a player from a list of five at any point during a match.
While some argue it hampers the development of all-rounders, others feel it has tilted the balance in favour of batters as teams can now attack throughout 20 overs with the cushion of having an extra willow wielder at number eight.
“Personally, I’m not a fan of it. I think it takes a lot of the skill out of the game,” Jamieson said in a select media interaction ahead Delhi Capitals game against Gujarat Titans.
“I think if you can bat 9 or 10, you don’t have to have the same sort of batsmanship that you probably once had to have,” he added.
Introduced in 2023, the rule is set to remain in place until 2027.
Jamieson stressed that the concept is not prevalent in international cricket and underlined the value of traditional all-round skills.
“I think there’s something to be said around, especially all-rounders, guys that can bowl and bat and offer balance to a team that way. And it does take a little bit of that skill out of the game.” The lanky Black Cap also reminded that none of the other big leagues in the world use the ‘Impact Player’ rule.
“You don’t see too many other places around the world or international cricket that have the Impact Player rule. It’s probably for a good reason,” he added.
Jamieson, who was picked up by Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2026 season, is yet to feature in the playing XI, with teams restricted to fielding only four overseas players.
“Obviously, you want to play. Everyone here wants to be able to find a way to contribute to this team winning games.
“But equally, you’re very aware that only four overseas players can play. There’s class from one through to 20-odd and for me personally, there’s no better place to be in terms of getting better as a cricketer than the IPL.