Sourav Ganguly Endorses IPL Impact Player Rule With Strategic Twist

Sourav Ganguly has expressed support for the impact player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL), countering reservations voiced by Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The rule permits a team to replace one player from the eleven with another at any point during the match, based on the team's needs.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli argued that the rule limits bowling opportunities for all-rounders like Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar. They noted that captains often opt for a specialist batter after the team's batting innings, sidelining versatile players.

Ganguly, however, endorsed the rule with a slight modification. He suggested that teams should decide on their impact player before the toss. Additionally, he recommended increasing the size of stadium boundaries to provide bowlers some relief.

The impact player rule has sparked considerable debate following the recent IPL season, where scores exceeding 250 runs were recorded eight times. Ganguly shared his views during the International Procurement and Supply Chain Conference organised by Blue Ocean Corporation.

"I like the impact player rule. My only thing with IPL is that I just want the grounds to be a bit bigger. The fences should go a little behind," Ganguly stated.

"It is a great tournament. The only thing you can do with the impact player is decide before the toss, so it's a bit of skill there," he added.

Ganguly also defended Prithvi Shaw, who had an underwhelming IPL season this year. He emphasised that Shaw is still young and learning the nuances of T20 cricket.

"He (Prithvi Shaw) is a young kid. He is just 23. He is still learning how to play T20 cricket. He is a very fine talent and he will get better," Ganguly remarked.

Ganguly praised wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant for his performance in the IPL, noting that Pant has returned to form following his car accident in 2022.

"He was superb for us (DC) in the IPL. I was so happy to see the way he came back because I have always said that he is a special player," Ganguly said.

Wriddhiman Saha's Return to Bengal

Ganguly also commented on Wriddhiman Saha's potential return to Bengal from Tripura. Saha had moved to Tripura for two years to play as a professional but now wishes to return to his home state.

"He wants to play for Bengal and rightfully so. He is a Bengal boy," Ganguly stated.

"He went away to Tripura for two years because he was playing there as a professional. He has finished that and he wants to be in Bengal. I am sure the selectors will pick him for Bengal," he added.

Ganguly clarified that he is not currently involved in Bengal cricket and did not contest for the presidency after completing his tenure with BCCI. "I have just taken a break. Whatever the selectors and officials decide, they will do," he concluded.