Suresh Raina criticizes IPL Impact Player rule

Former Chennai Super Kings batter Suresh Raina has criticized the Indian Premier League (IPL) Impact Player rule, arguing that it has disproportionately benefited batters and placed excessive pressure on bowlers.

Introduced in 2023, the rule allows teams to select five substitutes after the toss and make one replacement during a match. Raina noted that this has led to a significant increase in scoring, with totals of 250 or even 300 becoming more common. He expressed concern that the rule reduces the need for versatile players, stating, “A lot of fit players also bat and just sit down. How will you improve? There is no such rule in the World Cup.”

Raina also expressed support for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) policy that prevents contracted Indian players from participating in foreign franchise leagues, citing the massive scale and importance of the IPL.