Lanka Premier League Adopts IPL's Impact Player Rule

The Lanka Premier League has confirmed the introduction of the IPL's Impact Player rule for its 2026 season, marking a significant shift in cricket regulations. This decision follows the IPL's successful implementation of the rule, which allows teams to substitute players during matches. Additionally, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has voiced his concerns about the rule, suggesting it complicates the game for bowlers. He also proposed changes to the powerplay structure, advocating for more control for bowlers. The LPL will also feature Indian all-rounder Vijay Shankar for the first time, adding to the excitement of the upcoming season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 2, 2026, 11:13 IST

Introduction of the Impact Player Rule

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has pioneered several unique rules that have gained global attention, with the Impact Player rule being the most notable addition in IPL 2023. This rule permits teams to substitute an on-field player with another at various points: at the beginning of an innings, after a wicket falls, or at the start of a new over. Despite facing criticism, this rule has now been embraced by another league. The Lanka Premier League (LPL) has officially announced that its 2026 season will incorporate the Impact Player rule, making it the second league worldwide to do so. Additionally, the LPL has mandated that each team must include at least one Under-23 player in their playing XI.

Vijay Shankar Joins Kandy Royals

In a significant development, the LPL will also feature an Indian player for the first time, with recently retired all-rounder Vijay Shankar joining the Kandy Royals.

Sachin Tendulkar's Critique of the Impact Player Rule

Sachin Tendulkar Criticizes Impact Player Rule

During the ESPN Cricinfo awards, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar expressed his concerns regarding the Impact Player rule, suggesting it should be abolished. He argued that introducing an additional player in a 20-over match complicates matters for bowlers, who already face numerous challenges. "The Impact Player needs to go away. That is my personal opinion. I feel, in a T20 match, you just have to play 20 overs and then you are adding one more batter to that lineup where bowlers are already being challenged," he stated.

Tendulkar also proposed that the last two overs of the powerplay should be managed by the bowlers. He suggested that one bowler should be allowed to bowl five overs, emphasizing that the best bowler should have more opportunities to bowl. "Wouldn’t you want to see your best bowler bowling more? The top batters bat even 20 overs sometimes. Why shouldn’t the best bowler be bowling five overs?" he added.