The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to remove the Impact Player rule from the upcoming season of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), the domestic T20 tournament. This move was expected, but it contrasts with the BCCI’s decision to retain the same rule for the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The state associations were informed of the change by the BCCI on Monday, just ahead of the SMAT, which is set to take place from November 23 to December 15.
The Impact Player rule was initially introduced in the SMAT as a trial and later adopted in the IPL, where it added excitement for viewers by allowing teams to make strategic substitutions. However, while it worked well from a broadcasting and entertainment perspective, many players and coaches felt that it wasn’t beneficial for the competition. Some captains and coaches argued that it hindered the development of all-rounders, as teams began favoring specialist batters and bowlers instead of versatile players who could contribute in multiple areas of the game.
Despite the removal of the Impact Player rule in SMAT, the BCCI has chosen to keep the two-bouncer rule, which allows bowlers to deliver two short-pitched balls per over. This rule, introduced in last year’s SMAT and subsequently adopted in the IPL, is different from the International Cricket Council (ICC) regulation, which permits only one bouncer per over. The additional bouncer has been well-received by players and coaches, as it gives fast bowlers more strategic options and helps balance the contest between bat and ball.
Former India pacer Laxmipathy Balaji praised the two-bouncer rule, stating that it offers more variety and flexibility for bowlers, captains, and coaches. He believes that this added dimension will enhance competition and make the game more interesting for both players and spectators.
With the upcoming SMAT season, it will be interesting to see how these changes affect team strategies and the overall dynamics of the tournament.
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