Jimmy Neesham Critiques Impact Player Rule in ILT20
NEW DELHI: The implementation of the “Impact Player” rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has sparked divided opinions since its inception in 2023. Key figures like former India head coach Rahul Dravid and captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have criticized it for disrupting the game’s equilibrium and hindering the growth of all-rounders. Icons such as Ricky Ponting and Jonty Rhodes have also voiced their concerns.
New Zealand and Dubai Capitals all-rounder, Jimmy Neesham, has joined this wave of criticism, labeling the rule as “stupid” and calling for its elimination from T20 leagues to allow players adequate preparation time. Neesham noted that he felt unprepared when the chance to compete against the Gulf Giants arose earlier this season, attributing this to the Impact Player rule—which he believes complicates readiness for players.
“It’s a stupid rule. It doesn’t work in the IPL. I don’t know why we still have it, to be honest,” Neesham expressed in an interview. He emphasized that the uncertainty around participation prevents players from training effectively prior to matches, thereby stunting their development.
Moreover, Neesham argued that the rule discourages players from improving areas where they may be lacking. He pointed out that if someone is a poor fielder, they could simply be sidelined without consequences, thereby negating the incentive to improve: “If you’re a young cricketer, why would you work on your fielding? It’s ridiculous.”
With his latest involvement in the ILT20, Neesham has now played in ten sanctioned T20 leagues, having represented over 30 teams throughout his career. After turning down a central contract with New Zealand Cricket in September 2022, he has embraced the life of a “T20 freelancer,” participating in various leagues, including a recent stint in Nepal.
Looking ahead, Neesham, now 35, is gearing up for the T20 World Cup in February, which he suggested could be his final international appearance. “It’s about managing my schedule and body now to contribute to as many teams as possible,” he explained, as he approaches the milestone of 100 T20I matches, joining an exclusive group of New Zealand cricketers.
Outside of cricket, Neesham has become known for his witty comebacks to social media trolls. He stressed the importance of having thick skin in the face of online negativity, acknowledging that while social media can be a great tool for athlete-fan interaction, it also brings out the worst in some users.
