“It’s about mindset”: MS Dhoni backs Impact Player rule amid IPL’s high-scoring trend

MS Dhoni, the legendary Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, has defended the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL), attributing the surge in high scores to the aggressive mindset of teams rather than the rule itself. The Impact Player rule, introduced in 2023, gained significant attention in the 2024 season, where teams crossed the 200-run mark a record 41 times. Additionally, all of the top five highest totals in IPL history have been recorded after 2024, leading to criticism that the rule has disrupted the balance between bat and ball.

Speaking on JioHotstar, Dhoni shared his perspective on the controversy, stating that the comfort level of teams, not just the availability of an extra batter, has driven the increase in scoring. “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 wicketkeeping, so I’m not an impact player. 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,” Dhoni said.

He elaborated that while teams have an additional batter, it’s not necessarily being used in every game. Instead, knowing they have extra depth in their lineup allows batters to play more freely and aggressively. “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. 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.

Several cricketing experts have criticized the Impact Player rule, claiming that it has tilted the game heavily in favor of batters. However, Dhoni’s view suggests that the high-scoring trend is a natural progression of T20 cricket, with teams adapting to the rule by taking a more fearless approach. He believes that the rule alone cannot be blamed for the massive totals being posted, as other factors such as pitch conditions and player strategies play a crucial role.

Meanwhile, Dhoni showcased his enduring brilliance in CSK’s opening match against Mumbai Indians. The 43-year-old turned back the clock with a lightning-fast stumping of MI’s stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav, leaving fans in awe of his quick reflexes behind the stumps. He also faced a couple of deliveries before Rachin Ravindra’s unbeaten 65 off 45 balls helped CSK secure a comfortable victory in their 156-run chase.

As the debate over the Impact Player rule continues, Dhoni’s take provides a fresh perspective on the evolution of T20 cricket. While the rule has undoubtedly altered team strategies, the legendary wicketkeeper-batter believes it is the fearless mindset of players that has truly changed the game.