The BCCI is set to introduce “Impact Player ” substitution in the T20 tournaments of the country. Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy that commences on October 11 and IPL 2023 will be having this implementation.
As per the norms, the teams can substitute one member of their playing XI during a match, if its fruitful for the team. The board will first try this rule in state cricket for teams and players to get used to it.
Further BCCI stated, “With the ever-growing popularity of T20 cricket, it is imperative that we look at introducing new dimensions which will make this format more attractive and interesting not only for our viewers but also the participating teams from a strategic viewpoint.”
The Impact Player will allow one substitute player per team to be more active in a match.
The Big Bash League of Australia concluded that the 12th or 13th player on the team sheet can come into the game after the 10th over of the first innings and replace who will be batting or has bowled more that one over. The substitute bowler can bowl a maximum of four overs when the player they’ve replaced has bowled. It has become mandatory to use Impact Player which can be introduced any time before the 14th over gets over in any of the innings.
As per the circular, “Player who is replaced by an Impact Player can no longer take part in the remainder of the match and is also not permitted to return as a substitute fielder. If a player gets injured while fielding in mid over, the current playing condition prevails under 24.1 – substitute fielders,”
An injured player cannot take part in the match if the team introduces an Impact Player to replace him. Or else, he can be introduced after the completion of an over.
For the batting team, the Impact player will be introduced at the fall of a wicket or during the break of innings. The team needs to notify the fourth umpire in this aspect.
The other team has to hold back its Impact Player option before the innings break to strengthen their batting depth or may even introduce the Impact player who provides other bowling alternatives.
Read more: After Boult, Grandhomme now Jimmy Neesham refuse New Zealand’s CENTRAL CONTRACT, to play T20 Leagues