The IPL’s ‘Impact Player’ rule has generated a substantial discourse ever since its introduction. Started in 2023, it allows teams to sub-in a specialist batter or bowler based on the match situation. The rule comes into effect after six overs of the match have been played.
It has been criticised for hampering the development of all-rounders in the IPL, but the rule is set to continue at least until 2027, after which a decision will be made on its continuation in the tournament.
Delhi Capitals’ fast-bowler Kyle Jamieson has come out with vocal criticism of the rule, saying that it takes the skill out of the game. Using batting as an example, he believes that with specialist batters taking that extra slot, the need to develop batting skills is slowly being phased out.
“Personally, I’m not a fan of it. I think it takes a lot of the skill out of the game. I think if you can bat 9 or 10, you don’t have to have the same sort of batsmanship that you probably once had to have,” Jamieson said at a select media event ahead of Delhi Capitals’ clash against Gujarat Titans.
Jamieson further stated that the rule does not appear in franchise leagues around the world or in international cricket.
“I think there’s something to be said around, especially all-rounders, guys that can bowl and bat and offer balance to a team that way. And it does take a little bit of that skill out of the game. You don’t see too many other places around the world or international cricket that have the Impact Player rule. It’s probably for a good reason,” he added.
The Big Bash in Australia introduced the ‘X-Factor’ rule in 2020m allowing teams bring in a substitute after the 10th over of their innings. The rule was discontinued in 2022. From the 2026-27 season, the BBL is set to introduce a “Designated Batter and Fielder” rule, similar to the ‘Impact Player’ rule. Teams can name five substitutes at the toss, allowing one to enter the match as a specialist batter who cannot bowl, paired with a specialist fielder/keeper, who can only field in the game.
Big Bash introduces ‘Designated batters’ rule
Jamieson was signed by the Delhi Capitals for INR 2 crore ahead of the 2026 season, but has yet to feature in the team. He came in as an injury replacement for the Punjab Kings in 2025, replacing Lockie Ferguson. He played four games and picked up five wickets, helping them on their road to the finals.
‘Personally, I don’t like it’ – Axar Patel on impact player rule
Jamieson is the second Delhi Capitals player to criticise the rule, following captain Axar Patel.
“I don’t like this rule as I am all rounder myself (laughs). Earlier we used to pick all-rounders for this role (batting and bowling). Now, since the team management goes with a particular batter or bowler, the role of an all-rounder becomes subdued. Rules are rules and we have to follow them, but personally I don’t like it,” said Axar, speaking to the media ahead of the season.
The Delhi Capitals, who have won two games so far, will take on the Gujarat Titans at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 8.
