As the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League approaches, Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel has reignited debate around the Impact Player rule, saying it is affecting the role of all-rounders in modern T20 cricket.
With teams finalising their combinations, his comments come at a crucial time when strategies are evolving rapidly across franchises.
Introduced in 2023, the Impact Player rule allows teams to substitute a player during a match, offering greater tactical flexibility. While it has added a new dimension to the game, Axar believes it has shifted team selection towards specialists.
According to him, franchises now prefer a dedicated batter or bowler instead of relying on players who can contribute in both departments.
“I don’t like this rule,” Axar said, making his stance clear. He explained that as an all-rounder, the rule directly impacts his role, as teams no longer feel the same need for balance in the playing XI.
This marks a noticeable change from earlier seasons, where all-rounders were seen as key assets in maintaining team stability.
His views are not isolated. Senior Indian cricketers like Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have also expressed concerns about the long-term impact of the rule, particularly on the development of all-rounders in Indian cricket.
Their combined opinions suggest a growing unease about how the rule could reshape team-building approaches in the future.
For the Delhi Capitals, the situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Still chasing their maiden IPL title, the franchise must strike the right balance between tactical flexibility and team stability.
As IPL 2026 draws closer, Axar’s leadership and adaptability will be key in navigating this evolving landscape while keeping the team competitive.
