Mumbai: Royal Challengers Bengaluru all-rounder Krunal Pandya has backed the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League, saying it has transformed batting dynamics and made teams far more aggressive.
Pandya pointed out that modern IPL line-ups can now include up to eight specialist batters, allowing sides to attack relentlessly from the first ball.
‘Eight batters have changed the game’
Explaining the shift, Krunal said the rule has altered team balance compared to earlier seasons.
“Previously, you had a number six or seven all-rounder. Batsmanship was different. Now, with eight pure batters, the approach has completely changed,” he said.
He emphasised that young players are now entering the league with a fearless mindset, ready to attack immediately.
Youngsters like Sooryavanshi setting the tone
Pandya specifically highlighted emerging talents such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, noting how they are redefining batting intent in T20 cricket.
“You see young boys like Mukul and Vaibhav coming in and hitting from ball one consistently,” he said, underlining the confidence of the new generation.
This aggressive approach has made IPL contests more high-scoring and unpredictable, putting bowlers under constant pressure.
Bowlers must evolve tactically
Pandya stressed that bowlers now need to stay ahead not only in skill but also in mindset.
“As a bowler, I always want to be one step ahead with my skill set and also in the mental battle,” he explained.
He added that he has been adapting his own game by introducing variations such as bouncers and changing lengths to counter attacking batters.
Challenges for finger spinners
The RCB all-rounder also acknowledged that conditions have become increasingly difficult for finger spinners, especially on flat pitches with deep batting line-ups.
“With such flat tracks and eight batters, it has become very difficult. I just hope finger spinners can survive and continue to do well,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Pandya expressed satisfaction that his adjustments are delivering results.
Krunal’s IPL journey
Krunal has enjoyed a successful IPL career, contributing with both bat and ball across franchises. He first rose to prominence with Mumbai Indians, playing a key role in their title-winning campaigns.
He later represented Lucknow Super Giants, helping them reach the playoffs in their initial seasons before moving to RCB.
Across his IPL career, Krunal has scored over 1,700 runs and taken close to 100 wickets, maintaining a reputation as a dependable all-rounder.
Conclusion
Krunal Pandya’s endorsement of the Impact Player rule reflects the evolving nature of T20 cricket. With deeper batting line-ups and fearless young talent reshaping the format, the balance between bat and ball continues to shift.
As the IPL grows increasingly competitive, adaptability — both in skill and mindset — remains the key for players aiming to thrive in the modern game.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)