Teams will need some time to ace the new Impact Player rule: Sunil Gavaskar

The new 'Impact Player' rule introduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in the 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has garnered everyone's interest since the day it was announced. The new rule was seen getting implemented in the opening match of the IPL 2023 between Gujarat Titans (GT) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). 

CSK batter Ambati Rayudu was replaced by seamer Tushar Deshpande, who became the tournament's first-ever impact player. GT, on the other hand, sent Sai Sudharsan as their impact player in place of the injured Kane Williamson.

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes that the new rule introduced by the BCCI has a significant impact on the tournament. The cricketer-turned-commentator believes that all the teams might need some time to master this new rule.

"You need some time to understand new rules and acclimatize with new playing conditions. The same will be the case with all ten teams in the TATA IPL 2023. They will need some time to ace it,” The 73-year-old told Star Sports.

Kudos to BCCI for introducing the Impact Player rule - Harbhajan 

Former India spin bowler Harbhajan Singh stated that a team can now replace a suitable player who they believe can make an impact in the game based on the playing conditions. The veteran also praised the BCCI for establishing the highly innovative rule.

"It's a very innovative move as you can now replace a player whom you feel is not suitable or has served his purpose with someone who can make an impact in the current playing conditions. So, kudos to BCCI, it's a very good rule," said Harbhajan Singh.

GT, the defending champions, defeated CSK in the thrilling IPL 2023 opener on Friday, March 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In their first innings, MS Dhoni and Co. set a 179-run target, with opener Ruturaj Gaikwad scoring 92 off 50 balls. GT, on the other hand, chased the target with four balls remaining.