MS Dhoni defends Impact Player rule: High scores happening due to teams’ mindset-OxBig News Network

Legendary Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper batter MS Dhoni has defended the Impact Player rule, saying that high scores are happening more due to the mindset of the team. The Impact Player rule was introduced in the Indian Premier League in 2023. However, its real impact was seen in the 2024 edition of the tournament as teams surpassed the 200-run mark a whopping 41 times.

Furthermore, the top five highest scores in the history of the tournament have come from the 2024 season onwards. Seeing records getting tumbled after every game, several experts have criticised the Impact Player rule, saying it takes away the competition between bat and ball. Recently, MS Dhoni also commented on the impact of the rule and said that high-scoring games have been happening more due to the conditions and comfort of the players.

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“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’m not an impact player. 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. The number of runs being scored isn’t just because of an extra batsman. It’s about the mind-set—teams now have the comfort of an extra batter, so they play more aggressively. 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,” Dhoni said on JioHotstar.

Meanwhile, Dhoni turned the clock back in time with his lightning-fast stumping during CSK’s opening game against Mumbai Indians. The 43-year-old stumped Mumbai’s stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav with his swift glovework, leaving everyone in awe of his quick hands. He even came out to bat for a couple of deliveries as Rachin Ravindra (65* off 45) finished CSK’s 156-run chase with a six. As a result, Chennai got their campaign off to a winning start.