The 'impact player' rule became infamous after the high-scoring games in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The batters batted with more freedom and the team management were able to use the rule with great effect. However, the impact player was heavily criticised, especially the bowlers who were smashed in batting-friendly conditions. Ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to discuss the rule with franchise owners.
As per a report by Cricbuzz, impact player rule is one of the key points in the five-point agenda shared by the board with franchise owners ahead of the meeting on July 31 at Wankhede Stadium Complex.
The 'impact player' rule was introduced a couple of years ago but it was better used by franchises in IPL 2024. Earlier, current and former cricketers felt that it will affect the crop of all-rounders in the country. However, in the second season of its introduction, the bowlers were not happy with the rule as it extended the batting lineup.
In addition to the 'impact player' rule, number of players retention, right to match card in the auction, salary cap of players, auction purse, incremental performance pay and match fee will be discussed. In addition, player trade will be discussed.
Increment system in IPL
The incremental performance pay is one of the main talking points of the meeting. A player will get a boost in IPL salary if he performs better for the franchise each year. It will benefit the players who get picked in the auction for a nominal price or base price but became an integral part of the team. For example, Rinku Singh who was picked for Rs 55 lakh by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was retained for same amount. If the new incremental performance pay gets introduced, it will help players get paid well once they perform well for the franchise.
Extension of auction cycle
So far, there is no mention of extending the auction cycle from three to five years. Many franchises are in favour of extending it in order to retain the players who are core part of the team. Also, IPL Gaming rights and central merchandising will be discussed as well.
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