Dhoni on Impact Player rule: It''s how T20 cricket has evolved

Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni was initially skeptical about the Impact Player rule in the IPL, but now sees it as part of T20 cricket's evolution. He believes the rule boosts scoring by providing the confidence of an extra batter. However, he clar…
Debbie Flatley · 7 days ago · 2 minutes read


MS Dhoni's Evolving Perspective on the IPL's Impact Player

Initial Reservations

From a legend with an unmatched cricketing mind comes a nuanced take on the Impact Player. When the rule first graced the IPL, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the iconic former captain of India, wasn't entirely sold on its necessity.

Speaking to JioStar, the 43-year-old talisman of the Chennai Super Kings expressed his initial skepticism: "When this rule was implemented, I felt it wasn't really needed at that time."

A Necessary Evolution?

While initially doubtful, Dhoni now recognizes the Impact Player as a facet of T20 cricket's ongoing metamorphosis. He acknowledges the rule’s indirect benefit to his own role but stops short of labeling himself an Impact Player, emphasizing his continued primary function as wicketkeeper.

"In a way, it helps me, but at the same time, it doesn't. I still do my wicket-keeping, so I am not an impact player," he clarified.

Dhoni also addressed concerns about soaring scores attributed to the new rule. He believes the surge in runs is less about the extra batter and more about the evolving mindset of teams and favorable playing conditions. "I believe it's more due to the conditions and the comfort level of players," Dhoni stated. "The number of runs being scored isn't just because of an extra batsman. It's about the mindset."

The Impact on All-Rounders

The Impact Player rule has drawn criticism from prominent figures like Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, who fear it might hinder the development of all-rounders, as teams often opt for explosive batters instead.

Dhoni acknowledges this tactical shift. Teams, armed with the comfort of an additional batter, are emboldened to play more aggressively. "Teams now have the comfort of an extra batter, so they play more aggressively," he observed. "It's not that all four or five extra batters are being used, it's just the confidence of having them."

Embracing Change

Ultimately, Dhoni views the Impact Player as a symbol of T20's dynamic nature. "This is how T20 cricket has evolved," he concluded, suggesting an acceptance of the rule's place in the ever-changing landscape of the shortest format.