Impact Player Rule in IPL 2025: Jonty Rhodes Voices Concerns and Adaptability

Jonty Rhodes, LSG fielding coach, expressed reservations about the Impact Player rule's continuation in IPL 2025, emphasizing its impact on all-rounders. While some cricketers back the rule for strategic benefits, Rhodes is open to changes. He also discussed the potential reintroduction of the Right to Match rule in future auctions.

Jonty Rhodes, the fielding coach for the Lucknow Super Giants, has weighed in on the ongoing discussions about the future of the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Rhodes, reflecting on its contentious debut in IPL 2024, stated it has led to a split among fans and players.

Since the rule's introduction in 2023, franchises have built deeper batting line-ups, resulting in some record-breaking scores. The debate revolves around whether the rule should continue, with prominent voices both for and against it. Indian captain Rohit Sharma argued it hinders the development of all-rounders, while Ravichandran Ashwin lauded its strategic value.

Rhodes, however, expressed mixed feelings. "As a coach, I prioritize the development of all-rounders, which is affected by this rule. But I'm open to change and adaptation," he told ANI. The former cricketer also touched on the possible comeback of the Right to Match (RTM) rule in IPL auctions, which was last used in 2018, signaling openness to future IPL modifications.

(With inputs from agencies.)