The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the ‘Impact Player’ rule will be implemented in the domestic tournament Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which begins on October 11th. According to reports, the rule will also be permitted in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL).
Here is all you need to know about the rule:
What is the ‘Impact Player’ rule?
The main feature of the rule is that the Impact Player will be allowed to replace anyone from the Playing XI from the 10th to the 14th over of either innings.
Can anyone be named as the Impact Player without prior notice?
No, at the time of the toss, both teams will declare four substitutes in addition to the playing XI on their team sheets. The Impact Player will be chosen from among the four substitutes.
Can all four players be substitutes during the match?
No, each team can use only one Impact Player during the entire game.
Is it mandatory to use the Impact Player rule during the match?
No, it is not compulsory.
During the match, how can an Impact Player be introduced?
Either one of the team’s head coach, captain, or manager need to notify the umpire (on-field or the fourth umpire) regarding substitution.
When can a batting team use an Impact Player?
If the batting team wants to substitute a player with an impact Player, it can do so during the innings break or at the fall of a wicket.
When can a bowling team use an impact Player?
If the bowling team wants to introduce an Impact Player, it can do so after the current over is completed or if a fielder is injured in the middle of an over.
What role will the Impact Player play on the field?
An Impact Player can bat or can bowl his full quota of four overs in an uninterrupted innings.
Can the player who has been substituted by an Impact Player take a further part in the game?
No, the substituted player will no longer participate in the game. He can’t even be a pinch hitter.
However, the BCCI adds, “If a player is injured while fielding in the middle of a game, the current playing conditions apply under 24.1 – substitute fielders.”
What if an injured who was replaced by an Impact Player wants to take part in the match again?
The injured player can no longer take part in the match.
What if the Impact Player gets injured?
If an Impact Player is used by a team and he gets injured, then he shall be substituted only if the umpires are satisfied that a fielder has been injured or become ill during the match. However, the substitute can neither become a captain nor he can bowl.
Is the Impact Player rule applicable in shortened games due to rain or any other reason?
Yes, but it will not be applicable if the match gets shortened to less than 10 overs per side.
Will the rule be used in the 2023 edition of IPL?
There is no official declaration regarding the same as of now from the BCCI.
