Agree with Rohit Sharma: Virat Kohli also unhappy with BCCI’s ‘Impact Player’ rule in IPL

The ‘Impact Player’ rule, a new experiment in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has come under fire from another batting legend. Virat Kohli has echoed his India captain Rohit Sharma’s concerns, raising questions about the rule’s impact on the game’s overall balance.

Virat Kohli shares Rohit Sharma discontent

Speaking on JioCinema, Virat Kohli openly stated his agreement with Sharma’s criticism of the rule. He expressed concern about the pressure it puts on bowlers, who feel like “every ball could go for four or a six.” Kohli emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between batting and bowling in high-level cricket.

Virat Kohli said: “I agree with Rohit about the Impact Player rule. I have never experienced anything like it where bowlers think they will concede four or a six on every ball. This is high-level cricket; it shouldn’t be too dominated by batsmen. Not every team has a Bumrah or a Rashid. I know Jay Bhai has mentioned that they will be reviewing it”

Disadvantage all-rounders with Impact Player rule

Virat Kohli highlighted a similar point raised by Rohit Sharma – that the rule disincentivizes the development of all-rounders.

With teams having the option to bring in an extra batsman, players like Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube, who excel in both batting and bowling, see their bowling opportunities limited.

Powerplay feast for batsmen

Kohli acknowledged the personal benefit it brings to his batting. The presence of an extra batsman allows him to play with a more aggressive approach in the powerplay, knowing there’s another batter waiting in the wings. This, he argues, contributes to the difficulty of defending big totals as every team has a chance to score freely.

Need for Review by BCCI and Jay Shah: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli acknowledges BCCI president Jay Shah’s comments suggesting the rule is under review and open to change. He expressed hope that after discussions with stakeholders following the T20 World Cup, a solution will be found that restores equilibrium to the game.

Cricket beyond boundaries?

While acknowledging the excitement of big hitting, Virat Kohli stressed that cricket thrives on a more nuanced balance. He believes the ability to defend a modest total, not just rack up huge scores, is crucial for an engaging game.

Future of the ‘Impact Player’

With both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma voicing their concerns, the BCCI faces mounting pressure to address the ‘Impact Player’ rule.

Whether modifications are made or the rule is scrapped altogether, the upcoming review period will likely see a lively debate about the future of this innovative, but potentially disruptive, experiment.