MS Dhoni reflects on IPL's impact player rule and its role in T20 cricket evolution

Former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni initially had reservations about the Impact Player rule when it was introduced in the IPL but now views it as a natural progression in the evolution of T20 cricket.

The 43-year-old, still a pivotal figure for the Chennai Super Kings even after stepping down as captain last year, stated that he doesn't view himself as an Impact Player, as he continues to serve as his team's first-choice wicketkeeper.

"When this rule was implemented, I felt it wasn't really needed at that time. In a way, it helps me, but at the same time, it doesn't. I still do my wicket-keeping, so I am not an impact player," Dhoni told 'JioStar'.


"I have to be involved in the game. A lot of people say the rule has led to more high-scoring games. I believe it's more due to the conditions and the comfort level of players," he added.

India's Test and ODI skipper Rohit Sharma and star all-rounder Hardik Pandya have criticized the rule, arguing that it could hinder the development of all-rounders as teams often prioritize big-hitting batters for this role. However, Dhoni acknowledged that the rule provides teams with the advantage of an additional batter during crucial moments.

"The number of runs being scored isn't just because of an extra batsman. It's about the mindset, teams now have the comfort of an extra batter, so they play more aggressively," he said.

"It's not that all four or five extra batters are being used, it's just the confidence of having them. This is how T20 cricket has evolved," he added.

[With PTI inputs]