Virat Kohli Backs Rohit Sharma’s Opinion On IPL's Impact Player Regulation
IPL 2024: Two of India's cricketing stalwarts, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have voiced their concerns over the Impact Player rule implemented in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Kohli, in an interview with Jio Cinema, expressed his reservations about the rule's effect on the game's balance, while Sharma had previously shared his dissatisfaction on the Club Praire Podcast. Their comments shed light on the growing debate surrounding the impact of rule changes on the dynamics of T20 cricket.
Challenging the Balance of the Game
Kohli, renowned for his meticulous approach to the sport, articulated his concerns regarding the Impact Player rule, emphasising its potential to disrupt the equilibrium between bat and ball. He pointed out that not every bowler possesses the exceptional skills of players like Jasprit Bumrah or Rashid Khan, making them more susceptible to conceding boundaries. The rule, which encourages aggressive batting, has led to a surge in high-scoring matches, altering the traditional dynamics of T20 cricket.
“I agree with Rohit. Entertainment is one aspect of the game but there is no balance,” Kohli shared his thoughts during an interview on Jio Cinema. Bowlers' Dilemma
Addressing the concerns of bowlers, Kohli highlighted the undue pressure placed on them by the constant fear of conceding boundaries. He stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between entertainment and competitiveness, arguing that bowlers should not be discouraged from executing their skills effectively. The Impact Player rule, by prioritising aggressive batting, has undermined the strategic aspects of bowling, potentially diminishing the significance of bowlers in the game.
“Bowlers are feeling like what they should do. I have never experienced anything like it where bowlers think they will concede four or a six on every ball. We are playing a high level of cricket and it should not be that dominant in my opinion. There is a beauty about having an equal balance between bat and ball. Not every team has a Bumrah (Jasprit) or the mystery of Rashid Khan,” Kohli said.
Impact on Batting Dynamics
Kohli also reflected on the personal impact of the rule, noting its influence on his batting approach. With the removal of the ‘sheath anchor’ role, which traditionally provided stability to the batting lineup, Kohli found himself adapting to a more aggressive style of play. While this allowed him to capitalise on opportunities and score at a higher strike rate, it also signified a departure from his previous batting strategies.
“I am telling you, with one extra batter there is a reason I am playing with 200 plus strike rate in the powerplays. I know there is a batsman waiting at No 8 as well. I think it has disrupted the balance and a lot of people are feeling this way not just me,” he said.
"I'm not a big fan of impact player. You are taking out so much from the game just to make it little entertainment for the people around. But if you look [at] genuinely just cricketing aspect of it. I can give you so many examples - guys like Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube are not getting to bowl, which for us [India team] is not a good thing.I don't know what you can do about it, but I'm not a fan of it honestly speaking," he added.
Rohit Sharma's Concerns
Echoing Kohli's sentiments, Rohit Sharma expressed apprehensions about the long-term implications of the Impact Player rule. He cautioned against its potential to stifle the development of all-rounders and weaken India's prospects in international cricket. Sharma's remarks underscored the broader ramifications of rule changes within the IPL and their reverberations on the Indian cricketing landscape.
Hope for Reevaluation
Both Kohli and Sharma expressed hope that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) would reassess the Impact Player rule and prioritise the best interests of Indian cricket. Their advocacy for a balanced approach to rule-making reflects a commitment to preserving the integrity and competitiveness of the sport. As discussions continue within cricketing circles, the future of the Impact Player rule remains a subject of deliberation and debate.
Kohli added, “I am sure Jay bhai has mentioned it already that they will review it and I am sure that they will come to a conclusion which brings the game into balance. As a batter, I can say this rule is good but the match should be exciting. Only fours and sixes are not exciting in cricket. Exciting is that you can defend 160 as well.”