With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 set to kick off on March 28, discussions around the controversial Impact Player rule have once again taken center stage. Introduced in IPL 2023, the rule allows teams to substitute a player during a match, significantly altering team combinations and strategies. While some experts believe it has added tactical depth and excitement, others argue it has reduced the role of all-rounders in the game.
The latest voice to join this ongoing debate is Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel, who has openly admitted that he is not a fan of the rule, particularly because of how it affects players like him.
Axar Patel explains why he doesn’t like the Impact player rule
Axar did not hold back while sharing his honest opinion on the Impact Player rule. The Delhi Capitals captain made it clear that, as an all-rounder, he feels the rule diminishes the value of players who contribute in both departments.
“I don’t like this rule, honestly, because I am an all-rounder,” Axar said with a laugh.
He elaborated that earlier, teams relied heavily on multi-skilled players who could balance both batting and bowling responsibilities. However, the introduction of the rule has shifted that mindset. According to Axar, teams now tend to pick specialists instead of all-rounders.
“Because of this rule, the team management goes for a particular batsman or bowler, thinking ‘Why do we need an all-rounder?’,” he explained.
Despite his personal reservations, Axar acknowledged the importance of adapting to the rules. “At the same time, rules are rules and we need to follow them. From a personal point of view though, I don’t like the rule,” he added.
Expectations high from Axar and Co.
Heading into IPL 2026, expectations are significantly higher for Delhi Capitals, who are being widely regarded as strong title contenders. Unlike previous seasons, the franchise has built a squad that experts describe as “intelligently constructed,” focusing on balance rather than star power alone.
One of DC’s biggest strengths lies in their spin department, with Axar and Kuldeep Yadav forming arguably the most effective spin duo in the tournament. Their ability to control the middle overs and pick up crucial wickets could prove decisive, especially at the spin-friendly Arun Jaitley Stadium.
The batting lineup also appears well-rounded, with KL Rahul expected to provide stability at the top. He is supported by experienced finishers like David Miller and the explosive Tristan Stubbs, giving the side both depth and firepower.
In the bowling department, the presence of Mitchell Starc adds significant bite to the pace attack. With support from T Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi, and Mukesh Kumar, DC possess a versatile bowling unit capable of adapting to different match situations.
