Jasprit Bumrah, Player of the Match in Mumbai Indians‘ (MI) thrilling nine-run win over Punjab Kings (PBKS), has added his voice to the growing criticism of the Indian Premier League – IPL’s ‘Impact Player’ rule.
MI pace sensation is the second active Indian player after captain Rohit Sharma, to slam the ‘Impact Player’ rule.
Close Call for Mumbai Indians
Despite taking three crucial wickets in the top order, Jasprit Bumrah expressed frustration that Mumbai couldn’t finish the match earlier. “It was a close game,” he said at the post-match presentation ceremony. “Much closer than we expected.” He acknowledged the challenges bowlers face in the T20 format with its limited overs and the new rule.
Jasprit Bumrah slams Impact Player Rule
“This format is a little difficult for the bowlers, with time restrictions and impact player rules,” Jasprit Bumrah explained. He argued that the rule “gives the license to the batters to go after the bowlers,” making it harder for bowlers to perform effectively. “A bowler becomes half of what he actually is because of this rule,” he stated.
Echoing Rohit Sharma concerns
Bumrah’s criticism echoes the sentiments expressed earlier by his Mumbai Indians teammate and Indian cricket captain, Rohit Sharma. During a podcast discussion, Rohit Sharma voiced his concerns about the rule’s impact on all-rounders and the overall balance of the game.
“It is not good for the all-rounders.. Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube haven’t bowled this season. This is a concerning aspect. You play international cricket with 11 players but you are competing with 12 players in IPL. This rule was introduced to entertain the fans. I am not in favour of the Impact Player rule,” Rohit Sharma said.
What is Impact Player rule?
The ‘Impact Player’ rule was introduced by the IPL, last year, to add an element of excitement and unpredictability to the matches. However, players like Jasprit Bumrah and Rohit Sharma believe it disrupts the traditional format and puts bowlers at a disadvantage.
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‘Impact Player’ debate continues
With both prominent players and fans voicing their opinions, the ‘Impact Player’ rule is sure to remain a topic of debate throughout the IPL season. It will be interesting to see if the BCCI considers any adjustments to the rule based on the ongoing feedback.
