‘I Don’t Like It’: Axar Patel Slams the One IPL Rule He Can't Stand

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Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel has joined a growing list of Indian cricketers voicing concerns over the Impact Player rule in the IPL, stating that he is personally not a fan of the regulation and believes it affects the role of all-rounders in the game.

The Impact Player rule, introduced in IPL 2023, allows teams to substitute any player from the starting XI with one of five listed substitutes at any stage of the match. While it has added tactical flexibility, several senior Indian players have questioned its long-term impact on team balance and player development.

Speaking ahead of his second season as Delhi Capitals captain, Axar gave a candid response when asked about his views on the rule.

Axar Patel Says Impact Player Rule Reduces Value Of All-Rounders

Axar, who has built his career as a dependable all-rounder, said the rule has shifted team strategies away from selecting multi-skilled players.

"I don't like this rule, as I am an all-rounder myself (laughs). Earlier we used to pick an all-rounder for this role (batting and bowling). Now team management goes with a particular batter or bowler; they say, 'Why do we need an all-rounder?'"

"Being an all-rounder myself, I don't like it, but at the same time rules are rules. We have to follow them. But personally I don't like it," said Axar.

His comments echo earlier concerns raised by senior players including Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya, both of whom have previously suggested that the rule limits opportunities for all-rounders to develop consistently.

With teams increasingly relying on specialist batters and bowlers due to the substitution flexibility, the traditional role of an all-rounder has come under greater scrutiny.

Axar Patel Clarifies Reduced Bowling Was Due To Finger Injury

Axar also addressed questions around his reduced bowling workload during the previous IPL season, clarifying that it was not related to the Impact Player rule but rather a lingering finger injury.

"I did not bowl a lot. It wasn't because of Impact Player. After the Champions Trophy, my spinning finger got cut. After that it got worse because of the seam of the ball. Later, it developed into a deep cut; I was not able to apply pressure and rotation on the ball."

"That is why I was bowling only when required and nursing my finger. After seven games, it became better, and I bowled frequently," said Axar.

The injury affected his ability to apply pressure on the ball, forcing him to manage his workload carefully during the tournament.

Debate Around Impact Player Rule Continues Ahead Of IPL 2026

With the Impact Player rule confirmed to remain in place until at least 2027, discussions around its influence on team selection and player development are likely to continue.

As Delhi Capitals prepare for IPL 2026 under Axar's leadership, the all-rounder will aim to balance captaincy responsibilities while continuing to play a key role with both bat and ball.