KKR's Venkatesh Iyer Finds 'This' Drawback in Impact Player Rule

image-lgouhqanVenkatesh Iyer is in sublime form [Source: AP]

In a press conference ahead of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) match against Delhi Capitals (DC) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023, KKR all-rounder, Venkatesh Iyer, expressed his opinion that the dynamics of the tournament have undergone a significant transformation following the implementation of the Impact Player rule.

According to Iyer, the new Impact Player rule in IPL 2023 has decreased the significance of all-rounders, as teams are opting for a specialist sixth bowler as a substitute rather than utilizing an all-rounder to bowl overs.

The Impact Player rule enables both teams to designate five players as substitutes before the game, out of which one player can be utilised during the match. However, Iyer's views on the rule suggest that it may have an unintended consequence on the role of all-rounders in the league.

"Honestly, with the coming of impact players, the number of overs an all-rounder is bowling has dropped down drastically," said Iyer.

Iyer explained that a team with a specialist bowler as their sixth option would likely choose to use them instead of their all-rounder. He believes the Impact Player rule has brought this, as the number of overs an all-rounder is bowling has dropped drastically.

"Obviously, if a team has a specialist bowler as their sixth bowler and they don't want to try their all-rounder. This is what impact player rule has brought. It has lessened the utility of all-rounders," added the Madhya Pradesh based cricketer.

Iyer further elaborated on his views, stating that the IPL is an international-level tournament with a large think tank in every team. Therefore, it is likely that they have figured out how to use the impact player from the very first match itself. He believes the impact players have become the X factor, as evident from the results.

Although Iyer expressed his apprehensions, he has exhibited an impressive performance as an Impact Player for KKR in IPL 2023. 

He entered the game as a substitute against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad and showcased his batting prowess by smashing an 83 off 40 balls. His impressive contribution helped KKR chase down a mammoth 205 off the last ball.

The Southpaw also achieved a significant milestone in his IPL career when he became only the second KKR batter to score a century in the league. He achieved this feat by smashing 104 off 51 balls in a recent match against Mumbai Indians.

While the Impact Player rule has undoubtedly added an exciting dimension to the IPL 2023, with players like Iyer making the most of their opportunities, it remains to be seen how the rule will impact the role of all-rounders in the league.