In a recent development, it is understood that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will remove the Impact Player rule that was first introduced a couple of seasons ago in 2023.

It will no longer be used in the upcoming season of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), the domestic T20 competition.

The Impact Player rule was launched in the SMAT on an experimental basis and was later adopted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well.

The BCCI confirmed the development of the rule removal to the state associations through a communication today (October 14) evening.

In a brief communication, the BCCI said, “Please note that the BCCI has decided to remove the provision of ‘Impact Player’ for the ongoing season.”

However, while this move was largely anticipated, it is a decision contradictory to the BCCI’s persistence in the norm in the IPL. Recently, the BCCI also informed all IPL franchises that the rule will remain in place for the upcoming IPL 2025 season as well.

BCCI keeps two bouncers for excessive rule

The BCCI, however, has maintained the two-bouncer rule, which was first implemented in the SMAT last season and later adopted in the IPL as well. The playing conditions clause states: “41.6.2 A bowler shall be limited to two short fast deliveries per over.”

This rule, which allows two wicketkeepers per over, is unique to BCCI T20 matches as the International Cricket Council (ICC) only allows one wicketkeeper per over in world cricket.

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The Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament will be held across the country and will be held from November 23 to December 15.

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