'Impact Player has bit of a role in that' - Shubman Gill adds weight on the growing Impact Player rule discussion

The introduction of the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has sparked a heated debate this season among cricketers and fans alike. Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill has become the latest addition to the growing list of Team India stars who have shared their thoughts on this contentious rule, highlighting its impact on the game's scoring dynamics.

The Impact Player rule, a tactical innovation introduced in the IPL, has garnered mixed reactions from various quarters. It allows teams to substitute a player from their playing XI with a member of the dugout contingent after the toss and before the start of the 14th over of either innings. This rule aims to enhance strategic depth, but its implementation has raised concerns from some players.

Gill expressed his disapproval of the Impact Player rule. According to Gill, the ability to bring in a fresh batter or bowler midway through the innings provides teams with an additional advantage, allowing batters to maintain an aggressive approach throughout without fear of losing wickets.

“I think Impact Player has a bit of a role in that. Even if you lose wickets in the powerplay or the middle overs. You know every team has a cushion. So, they just keep going, and to be able to get to a good start, they can't just play out in middle overs. They need to keep going and get a good score in the end,” Gill said during the post-match presentation following the side's narrow four-run loss against DC.

Also read: Mukesh Kumar on Impact Player rule

Impact rule made our selection very easy: Daniel Vettori

Sunrisers Hyderabad's head coach, Daniel Vettori, acknowledged the rule's influence on team selection. The former Kiwi player was in support of the rule and said that the rule has been helping the side pick a well-balanced squad. 

"The impact rule made our selection very easy. I think because you cover so many bases. When it comes to the selection table, it makes our a lot easier," he said in the pre-match press conference ahead of the RCB clash.

Also read: David Miller joins growing list of disapprovers of Impact Player rule

Since the introduction of the rule, IPL has seen many high-scoring totals being scored. Five of the six highest totals ever scored in IPL have been registered in this season. The 220-run mark has become a very achievable task, with every team scoring it regularly.