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Aakash Chopra, the former India cricketer and commentator, recently shared his views on the impact player rule ahead of IPL 2025. He supports the rule, arguing that it ensures that talented all-rounders will always be valuable, even with its implementation.
As IPL 2025 approaches, discussions are heating up about the impact player rule, especially following a recent meeting between franchise owners and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on July 31st. While there has been no official decision yet, the BCCI has described the talks as ‘productive,’ and the IPL governing council will deliberate further before making a final decision.
Chopra believes that the presence of quality all-rounders is crucial, citing the struggles of teams like the Punjab Kings as evidence. He suggested that those without such players might need to revisit domestic cricket to refine their skills.
“I think the impact player should stay. The good all-rounder will make the cut. If you are not that good, then, so be it. Sayed Mushtaq Ali, Vijay Hazare Trophy, improve your skill in that. And as soon as you are eligible for IPL the teams will wholeheartedly allow you to bowl and bat.
“Because everyone wants an all-rounder. Everyone does. Even after the impact player rule. Because those who don’t have it, they struggle. Rajasthan Royals is an example. Punjab as well (as they play) 6 batters, 5 bowlers.”
An all-rounder has a lot of value – Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra further emphasized that all-rounders hold significant value. He stated: “To do that, an all-rounder has a lot of value. But an all-rounder should be good. No mediocrity. No illusory all-rounder. That’s what I feel.”
Several players, including Rohit Sharma, have raised concerns about the impact player rule, arguing that it diminishes the importance of true all-rounders. They cited examples like Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube to support their view.
With most players opposing the rule, the future of this regulation in the league is uncertain. The BCCI will soon make an official decision along with updates on other rules.
