Captain of Gujarat Titans Shabman Gul I have joined the growing list of Indian players expressing concern over the impact player role. Indian Premier Leaguestating that it “takes the skill out of the game.” Gayle’s remarks come shortly after similar criticism from players. Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya And Akshar Patel. During the IPL A captains’ meeting was held in Mumbai, with a majority of team leaders, including Gayle, reportedly pushing for a review of the rule, which was introduced by the team earlier. BCCI in 2023 and thereafter extended to at least 2027. Speaking a day after the meeting, Gayle was clear in his stance against the regulation, which allows teams to introduce an extra batsman or bowler at any point during a match. “Personally, I don’t think there should be an impact player. I think cricket is generally an 11-man game and on wickets where we play on the basis that we play, adding an extra batsman I think takes the skill out of the game,” Gill said. He further explained that the traditional balance of the game is being affected, especially in stressful situations where teams are expected to adapt with limited resources. “There is a certain skill in the game that you need. When you have a certain amount of batsmen and if some of your batsmen are out, you need a lot of skill to move the scoreboard and get your team to a good score.” Gill also argued that the rule was making matches more predictable and less competitive, especially at batting-friendly levels. “With that one extra player, it makes the game more one-dimensional and it takes a bit of skill out of the game. Chasing 180 on a challenging wicket or 160 on a challenging wicket is more exciting for me personally than chasing 220 on a flat wicket.” Despite criticism from a number of players, the rule will remain in place for the foreseeable future, expected only after the 2027 season. “It’s going to be there till 2027. It’s something we also talked about in the captain’s meeting yesterday. I think it makes the game a bit more entertaining, but let’s see. It’s there. It’s up to them what the BCCI is going to do, they’ll take their decision, but personally I don’t like it,” Gee said.
