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Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer turned commentator, has sparked a fresh discussion on the Impact Player rule within the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite mounting dissatisfaction and widespread calls for its removal, Chopra has staunchly defended the rule, asserting that it not only serves a valuable purpose but also enhances the sport.
Chopra confidently predicts the continuation of the Impact Player rule in the IPL 2025 season despite facing considerable criticism. He maintains a personal belief in its benefits, arguing that the rule effectively tackles a significant challenge in Indian cricket: the scarcity of genuine all-rounders.
Aakash Chopra defends Impact Player rule amid criticism, predicts it will remain in the IPL.
According to Chopra, despite critics’ concerns that the rule might dilute the quality of all-rounders, it is actually promoting more balanced matches and creating opportunities for additional Indian players in the IPL. He argues that the rule prevents teams from relying on mediocre all-rounders during the tournament.
The commentator underscores that the Impact Player Rule has contributed to greater competitiveness in matches and has expanded the platform for Indian players to showcase their talent in the IPL. While some view this rule as potentially problematic down the line, Chopra sees it as a progressive step, asserting that true all-rounders will continue to shine irrespective of the rule.
Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel: “Whether the Impact Player rule comes back or not, who knows? I think the impact player rule is going to remain. I don’t think this rule is going anywhere. A lot of people say that this rule is wrong, but personally, I think this is the right thing.”
Chopra elaborated that while fans and several cricketers express concerns about the source of all-rounders if the rule persists in the IPL, he highlighted that with 10 IPL teams and the inclusion of the fifth player being Indian, this rule provides opportunities for an additional 10 players to showcase their skills.
Aakash Chopra defends Impact Player rule amid criticism, predicts it will remain in the IPL.
The former Indian cricketer noted that even the Indian national team includes an additional all-rounder. However, he cautioned that relying on mediocre all-rounders could lower the team’s overall standard and lead to the illusion of having a genuine all-rounder.
Chopra added, “You might get Venkatesh Iyer as the all-rounder. You might get Shivam Dube, Riyan Parag, and even Rinku Singh as the all-rounders. Anyone can be an all-rounder, but they are not the genuine all-rounder. Then how is it helping? Because when you reach international cricket, then it’s not going to happen.
Genuine all-rounders are doing whatever they want. Because they have that capability. And that is what you want. Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel. They are all genuine all-rounders who bowl four overs and bat as well. If you belong to that category, then it’s fine.”
Chopra further commented that IPL teams should have the liberty to retain their core players similar to how football clubs operate. He acknowledged the need for the BCCI to reconsider this rule, though he expressed skepticism about any imminent changes. Additionally, he suggested that conducting the IPL mega auction every five years would be beneficial for the league’s dynamics.
