“DC’s Axar Patel Discusses Impact Player Rule and Rishabh Pant’s Evolution Post-Accident”

Indian cricketer and Delhi Capitals (DC) all-rounder Axar Patel shared his insights on the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and reflected on the changes observed in skipper Rishabh Pant’s game since his return from a car accident in 2022.

Speaking at a press event in Delhi, Axar expressed his dissatisfaction with the Impact Player rule, stating, “The rule makers have made it difficult for us (the all-rounders) with this rule. Everyone gets to play one batter extra, and they attack from the first ball due to this batting depth. As an all-rounder, I am not a big fan since the team either goes for a proper batter or a bowler through this rule.”

Regarding Pant’s performance in the ongoing IPL, which marks his comeback to competitive cricket post his accident, Axar noted Pant’s enhanced maturity, patience, and composure. “I think maturity is there, more patience is there. Now he takes his time and finishes the match. He is still hitting his shots. He is less angry, more calmer,” mentioned the all-rounder.

In the current IPL season, Pant has amassed 254 runs in eight matches, boasting an average of 36.28 and a strike rate of 150.29, with two half-centuries to his credit.

DC’s upcoming match is against Gujarat Titans (GT) at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium