Experts attribute high-scoring IPL matches to effective use of ‘impact substitute rule’

The Indian Premier League has been witnessing high-scoring matches this season, with experts attributing the increase in runs to the better use of the ‘impact substitute rule’. The rule allows teams to replace a player named in the starting XI at any point after the toss, leading to some exciting performances and record-breaking totals.

Sunrisers Hyderabad recently achieved a new milestone by scoring 287-3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, surpassing their previous record of 277-3 set just three weeks ago. Travis Head’s 39-ball century and Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive innings were key factors in Hyderabad’s success.

“The impact player makes a big difference,” Klaasen said after the match, highlighting the positive impact of the rule on the team’s performance.

Former India women’s captain Mithali Raj also praised the impact player rule, noting how it has helped teams post big totals and chase down targets effectively. The rule allows teams to include an additional big-hitting batsman towards the end of the batting lineup, increasing the probability of quick runs in the final overs.

While the rule has led to high-scoring and entertaining matches, former India pace bowler Irfan Pathan raised concerns about the diminishing role of all-rounders due to the rule. Despite this, the impact player rule has added a new dimension to the game, with teams leveraging it to their advantage and producing thrilling performances on the field.

With the tournament heating up and teams vying for a spot in the playoffs, the impact player rule is expected to continue playing a crucial role in shaping the outcome of matches in the Indian Premier League.