The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is currently reviewing two key playing conditions from the last domestic and Indian Premier League (IPL) season, along with the Impact Player rule.
The board has yet to decide on retaining the two-bouncer clause, with reports suggesting a review may be underway. These rules pertain specifically to the men’s Twenty20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
Last season, the two-bouncer rule was introduced in domestic cricket and later in the IPL, allowing bowlers to use a second bouncer per over. This differs from international cricket, where only one bouncer is allowed per over. While the rule was generally well-received in the country, particularly during the IPL, the BCCI is reportedly reviewing its implementation and considering possible changes.
“We understand that Impact Player and two bouncer rules are the key points and no decision has been taken,” said an official of a state unit.
The inclusion of these rules in the SMAT will decide their continuation in the IPL.
Despite earlier assurances, the BCCI has delayed releasing the SMAT playing conditions. More than three weeks after issuing guidelines for other domestic events, state associations are still uncertain about the fate of these two specific rules.
In a communication sent to the state units on August 5, the BCCI stated, “In relation to the Domestic Season 2024 – 25, we are sharing the following documents for your kind perusal.
- Guidelines to the Host Associations and Participating teams;
- Playing Conditions; Men’s Multi Day; Men’s One Day; Women’s Multi Day; Women’s One Day; Women’s T20; Women’s U-15.“
The message also included a note stating, “Men’s T20 Playing Conditions will be shared shortly.” The SMAT competition is scheduled to begin in November.
The Impact Player rule remains a divisive topic among cricket fans. Zaheer Khan, a notable figure in the sport, recently expressed his support for the rule. However, it’s widely recognized that many players and coaches have differing views on the matter.
“There has been a debate around the impact sub rule. I’m going on record to say that I’m all for it. It has definitely given opportunities to a lot of uncapped Indian talents. It is something you will see in the mega auction when teams will be looking at them.”
“As far as all-rounders are concerned, right now there is no space for a half all-rounder because of the impact sub (rule). But if you are a genuine all-rounder, (then) no one can stop you. There is always going to be a value addition with the ability with bat and ball,” Zaheer stated.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah mentioned that a decision will be made and communicated soon.
