Apart from the much-debated Impact Player rule, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is also considering a review of another significant playing condition from the last domestic and Indian Premier League (IPL) season—the second bouncer clause.
The BCCI has not yet decided whether to continue with these rules, and there are indications that a review is underway.
These rules specifically apply to the men’s Twenty20 inter-state competition, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
The two-bouncer rule, which was introduced in domestic cricket and subsequently in the IPL last season, allowed a second bouncer per over.
In international cricket, only one bouncer is permitted per over.
While the rule was generally welcomed, especially during the IPL, there are ongoing discussions about its future.
An official from a state unit mentioned, “We understand that the Impact Player and two-bouncer rules are key points, and no decision has been made yet.”
The decision on these rules for the SMAT will influence their continuation in the IPL.
The delay in sharing the playing conditions for the SMAT has been a point of concern.
Despite the BCCI’s earlier commitment to provide these details soon, it has been over three weeks since the board released the rules, guidelines, and playing conditions for other domestic events.
State associations are still awaiting information on whether the two-bouncer rule will be retained.
In its August 5 communication to state units, the BCCI stated, “In relation to the Domestic Season 2024-25, we are sharing the following documents for your kind perusal:
1. Guidelines to Host Associations and Participating Teams;
2. Playing Conditions for Men’s Multi-Day, Men’s One-Day, Women’s Multi-Day, Women’s One-Day, Women’s T20, and Women’s U-15,” with a note indicating that “Men’s T20 Playing Conditions will be shared shortly.”
The SMAT is scheduled to begin in November.
The Impact Player rule continues to be a contentious issue within the cricket community.
Zaheer Khan recently expressed support for the rule, noting that it has provided opportunities for many uncapped Indian talents.
However, there are differing opinions among players and coaches.
“There has been debate around the impact sub rule.
I’m on record saying that I support it.
It has definitely given opportunities to a lot of uncapped Indian talents,” Khan stated during a recent event in Kolkata.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah has indicated that a decision on these rules will be made and communicated soon.
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