BCCI set to introduce substitute ‘Impact Player’ in T20s, playing XI to change to 15

New Delhi: Following the innovation by Australia’s Big Bash League, BCCI is set to introduce a substitute ‘Impact Player’ in domestic T20 cricket. The rule might apply to IPL as well, after testing it in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which begins on October 11. According to this new rule, teams can replace one player of their playing XI during a match.

In the Big Bash League, an ‘X-Factor Player’, named as either the 12th or 13th player on the team sheet, can come in as a substitute beyond the 10th over of the first innings. The player replaces any player who is yet to bat or has bowled no more than one over.

In a circular, BCCI stated that the teams need to identify a playing XI and four substitutes at the time of the toss. Out of the four substitutes, only one can be used as an Impact Player in the match. According to the board, this will add a new dimension to the format, adding some more strategy and excitement.

However, there are some conditions for the Impact Player. The substitute can be introduced any time before the completion of the 14th over of either inning and this substitution is a choice. The player who is replaced by an Impact Player can no longer take part in the remainder of the match and is also not permitted to play as a substitute fielder. If a player gets injured while fielding mid-over, the current playing condition prevails under 24.1 – substitute fielders.

The batting side can introduce an Impact Player at the fall of a wicket or during the innings break. The substitute player can bat and bowl the quota of four overs. An Impact Player can also come in the case of retired hurt, but in any case, only 11 players can bat.

However, no Impact Players can be introduced if a delayed start reduces the total number of overs to less than 10 for an inning prior to the commencement of the match.