Former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has shared his perspective on the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL), acknowledging that while he was initially unsure of its necessity, he now sees it as part of T20 cricket’s ongoing evolution. The 43-year-old Chennai Super Kings icon, however, does not consider himself an Impact Player, as he continues to serve as the team's first-choice wicketkeeper.
Speaking to Jio Star, Dhoni admitted that when the rule was first introduced, he questioned its need. Over time, though, he has come to understand its strategic value, particularly in high-pressure situations. As per agency report, he noted that the rule offers teams the flexibility to field an extra batsman if required, helping them approach the game with greater confidence and freedom.
Dhoni observed that while some believe the rule is contributing to higher scores, he attributes this trend more to the players' growing comfort and fearless approach at the crease. The extra batting option, in his view, simply allows teams to play with a more aggressive mindset.
The Impact Player rule has faced criticism from other senior players like Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who argue that it undermines the role of genuine all-rounders. They believe the rule encourages teams to opt for pure power-hitters instead of players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Responding to such concerns, Dhoni remarked that it is not just about including more batters, but rather about the psychological advantage of having an additional option available. He emphasized that teams are not necessarily using four or five extra batters, but the mere presence of one provides the belief and momentum needed to take more risks.
Concluding his thoughts, Dhoni described the rule as a reflection of how T20 cricket continues to grow and adapt, adding that the format’s evolution has always been driven by innovation and the pursuit of new strategies.
