After Axar Patel’s Criticism, Ganguly Says IPL Impact Player Rule Is Here To Stay
Ganguly backs Impact Player rule despite criticism, says it will remain in IPL.
Former India Captain Sourav Ganguly has asserted that the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) controversial Impact Player rule is “here to stay,” despite growing criticism from players, particularly all-rounders. His remarks come a day after India’s T20 vice-captain and Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel expressed dissatisfaction, saying the rule limits opportunities for players who contribute in multiple roles.
The Impact Player rule allows teams to substitute a player from a list of five during a match, offering greater tactical flexibility. However, critics argue that it encourages teams to favour specialist batters or bowlers, reducing the role of all-rounders. Ganguly acknowledged differing opinions but maintained that the rule, introduced during his tenure as BCCI president, is unlikely to be scrapped.
Speaking at a corporate event, Ganguly reiterated that while some players may not favour the change, it is part of the league’s evolving dynamics. Axar Patel had earlier stated that although he personally disagrees with the rule, teams are compelled to adapt to it as part of the game’s regulations.
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Beyond the IPL, Ganguly weighed in on the broader cricketing landscape, describing Test cricket as the “strongest format of the game.” While acknowledging the popularity of T20 cricket for its entertainment value and shorter duration, he argued that the traditional format demands greater skill, endurance, and consistency from players.
He also expressed confidence in the longevity of Test cricket, particularly in major cricketing nations such as India, England, Australia, and South Africa, where it continues to hold cultural and sporting significance.Ganguly further highlighted the IPL’s rapid growth, calling recent franchise valuation figures “mind-blowing” and indicative of the sport’s expanding global footprint. He also identified emerging talents such as Auqib Nabi as players to watch, while reaffirming his interest in future coaching opportunities as he continues to stay actively involved in the game.
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