Mahendra Singh Dhoni criticises Impact Player rule in IPL

Dubai: The Impact Player rule has become one of the most contentious topics in the Indian Premier League. Several captains believe it gives an undue advantage to teams, effectively serving as a trump card, and voiced their concerns during the Captains’ meeting ahead of Season 18. However, the rule — introduced in 2023 — is here to stay until at least 2026.

The Impact Player substitutions have already turned multiple matches on their heads this season. Vignesh Puthur, replacing Rohit Sharma for Mumbai Indians, nearly won his team the game against Chennai Super Kings. Meanwhile, Ashutosh Sharma and Vijaykumar Vyshak, both used as Impact subs, played match-winning roles for Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, respectively.

Indian legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni has made his stance on the rule clear, expressing his displeasure.

“When it first came out, I said one thing: IPL is in such a good position, there’s no need to spice it up further,” Dhoni said on Jio Cinema.

“Games were already high-scoring, competitive, and entertaining. We’ve often seen in T20s that matches can be decided within five overs — teams lose too many wickets early, fail to post a strong total, and the opposition wins easily.

“When this rule was introduced, I felt it wasn’t needed because the TRPs were already high, the quality of cricket was good, and new talent was emerging. But it was implemented. In a way, it helps me, but at the same time, it doesn’t — because I still have to keep wickets, so I’m not an Impact Player. I have to be involved in the game.”

Dhoni also addressed claims that the rule has led to higher-scoring matches.

“Some say games have become more high-scoring because of the Impact Player rule. I think it’s due to the conditions. The extra batter gives teams comfort, but it’s not like that alone is causing bigger totals,” he added.

Dhoni, who handed over the Chennai Super Kings captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, dismissed speculation that he was still calling the shots.

“During the season, a lot of people speculated that I was making the decisions in the background. But the fact is, he was making 99 per cent of the decisions. The most important calls — bowling changes, field placements — were all his. I was just helping him out. He did a brilliant job of handling the players,” Dhoni said.

Gaikwad echoed his predecessor’s words. “He assured me, ‘This is your team. You make your own decisions. I won’t interfere — except when field placements are a 50-50 call. Even then, it’s not a compulsion to follow my advice.’ That trust meant a lot to me,” Gaikwad said.