Former Proteas all-rounder Jacques Kallis has criticised the Indian Premier League’s introduction of the impact player rule.
Multiple South African players, including the Mumbai Indians’ Dewald Brevis and Rajasthan Royals duo Nandre Burger and Keshav Maharaj, have been used in the substitute role this IPL season.
League commissioner Graeme Smith, meanwhile, has suggested the rule might be introduced in the SA20.
“It’s a terrible rule. You’re negating the all-rounder, and I don’t think that’s good for cricket. Especially for India, who are trying to grow their all-rounders. As an all-rounder, I don’t want to see that. You want them to play a major role,” Kallis told Cricbuzz.
Four of the highest team totals in the 17-year history of the IPL have been scored this season. The 2024 IPL has also yielded 14 centurions.
“Also, there’s a very small chance of being bowled out because you’re basically playing with eight batters. That makes a big difference, and that’s why the scores have gone crazy,” added Kallis.
“Yes, the batters have taken the game to the next level, but I definitely don’t agree that there should be an impact player.”
Kallis played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. He coached Kolkata, too.