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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will be introducing a new 'impact player' regulation in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, in the upcoming season. This new rule will introduce the concept of substitute players in a team and will allow the participating teams to replace one player in their playing XI during a T20 match.
According to a note issued to the state teams, which was accessed by another news portal, the BCCI said, "The concept is to allow one substitute player per team to take a more active part in a match. This would add a new tactical/strategic dimension to the game. A number of team sports allow teams to make tactical substitutes i.e. football, rugby, basketball, and baseball. The substitute is allowed to perform or participate like any other regular player..."
Earlier, this rule was experimented with in the Big Bash League, BCCI took the decision to make the format interesting ‘not only for the viewers but also for the participating teams from a strategic viewpoint.'
Going slow with the rules, the BCCI will first try it out in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy this season. It remains to be seen how the teams will react to this new rule. In all likeliness, this rule is being tested here ahead of implementing it in the Indian Premier League.
As per the note received by the State teams, they will have to decide whether or not to have an impact player. But if they wish to field one, the 'Impact Player' can be introduced in the match any time before the completion of the 4th over in either innings of a match. After the introduction, the new player can bat and may bowl a full allotment of four overs.
The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy begins on October 11.
