Contrary to popular opinion, the much-debated ‘Impact Player’ rule has proved to be a bigger nightmare for bowlers than for all-rounders, according to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s left-arm spinner Shahbaz Ahmed. On Friday, Ahmed shared his insights on the rule’s impact this season.
Having played 12 games this season, Shahbaz has scored 186 runs at a strike-rate of over 138. However, his primary skill, left-arm spin, hasn’t yielded significant returns, with only three wickets at an economy rate of 10.60.
“Now every team has in total nine batters, an all-rounder, and eight batters. Teams are looking for players who can strike big from ball one and maintain that momentum. The ‘Impact Player’ rule has affected bowlers more than all-rounders because it allows batters to play freely,” Shahbaz told PTI.
According to Shahbaz, teams initially struggled to utilize the ‘Impact Player’ rule effectively during its inaugural season. As teams have adapted, the role of anchors in batting lineups has diminished.
“Teams didn’t know much about how to use the ‘Impact Player’ last season. All-rounders have a reduced role, often bowling just one or two overs instead of four. This is true and visible to everyone. Additionally, the number of batters who anchor innings has also significantly decreased.”
Shahbaz praised SRH skipper Pat Cummins for creating a pressure-free environment, which has positively impacted the team’s performance. SRH has already qualified for the last four with 15 points.
“Pat always backs me whenever he gives me the ball. This support helps me handle pressure, even if I concede boundaries. He and coach Daniel Vettori have fostered an environment where no player feels pressured, allowing us to play freely and perform well.”
A lesser-known fact about Shahbaz is his special connection with Virat Kohli, who gifts him a bat each season.
“Virat’s bat is by far the best in terms of quality. It has the right balance and an excellent ping. Every IPL season, he gifts me a bat, which holds great value for me.”
Shahbaz’s observations highlight the evolving dynamics of cricket with the ‘Impact Player’ rule, emphasizing the challenges bowlers face in this new era.
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