Mumbai, Sept 17:
The BCCI is reconsidering the future of the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League, with the provision potentially being scrapped from the tournament ahead of the 2027 season.
Introduced in 2023, the Impact Player rule allows a team to substitute one player during a match, giving franchises the flexibility to strengthen their batting or bowling according to the match situation.
The rule has, however, attracted criticism from several prominent players and former cricketers, who have argued that it has altered the traditional balance between bat and ball and reduced the importance of genuine all-rounders.
The BCCI sought feedback from all 10 IPL franchises after the conclusion of the 2026 season. The board is now expected to hold further discussions with the franchises and the broadcaster before taking a final decision on whether the rule should continue.
According to a RevSportz report cited in the latest development, the BCCI has not ruled out removing the provision from IPL 2027. A BCCI source said the board would consult the relevant stakeholders before arriving at a decision.
Former India captain Rohit Sharma has previously voiced concerns over the Impact Player system, saying it could affect the development of all-rounders. He pointed out that teams could field specialist batters and bowlers while using the substitute rule to address their requirements during a match.
Virat Kohli has also expressed reservations about the rule. During IPL 2024 coverage on Jio Cinema, Kohli backed concerns over the increasing advantage for batters and the effect of the rule on the traditional composition of a T20 side.
The provision allows teams to select an additional specialist batter or bowler and then introduce the player during the match depending on the circumstances. Supporters of the rule have viewed the tactical flexibility as an added dimension to the format, while critics have questioned its effect on player development.
The BCCI had asked the franchises to submit their feedback by August 31. The responses will form part of the boardās deliberations before a final decision is taken.
The issue also has a commercial dimension. The Impact Player rule has contributed to deeper batting line-ups and aggressive tactics, while several high-scoring matches have followed its introduction. The broadcasterās views are therefore also expected to be considered.
For now, the Impact Player rule remains in place. The BCCIās ongoing review means, however, that IPL 2027 could potentially see a return to the traditional 11-player format.