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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star fast bowler, Mitchell Starc, emerged as a key figure in the team’s recent triumph over Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 51st match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Starc’s remarkable performance with the ball played a pivotal role in KKR’s victory at the Wankhede Stadium.
KKR bowlers dominate low-scoring encounter
In a match characterized by low scores, KKR’s bowling unit displayed exceptional prowess, restricting MI to a mere 145 runs in pursuit of KKR’s modest total of 169. Starc’s contribution was particularly noteworthy, as he claimed four wickets while conceding 33 runs in his 3.5 overs spell.
Mitchell Starc voices concerns over Impact Player rule
Despite his stellar performance, Starc took the opportunity to express his reservations regarding the Impact Player rule, a subject of considerable debate in the IPL 2024 season. Notably, this rule permits teams to utilize a substitute player during a match, potentially altering the course of the game.
Impact player rule’s influence on IPL dynamics
Starc highlighted how the Impact Player rule has influenced team compositions and match strategies, leading to higher-scoring encounters in the tournament. He emphasized the significance of tactical considerations, particularly in light of the absence of such a rule in international cricket.
Also WATCH: IPL 2024 – Mitchell Starc cleans up Gerald Coetzee with a fierce yorker in MI vs KKR match
Looking ahead to T20 World Cup 2024
As attention shifts towards the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, Starc speculated on the implications of the absence of the Impact Player rule in international competitions. He suggested that captains would need to adapt their tactics accordingly, considering the differences in playing conditions and regulations.
“The impact player rule changes things a fair bit. Everyone gets to bat a lot deeper having a batting and a bowling XI. I guess there’s a lot made of that rule and there’s been a lot of high scores, which is the nature of the wickets and the grounds we play on here. Impact player rule has had a fair part to play in that, when you are going to have batters and batting all-rounders come in at Nos 8 or 9, it’s a long batting lineup,” said Starc while talking to media after MI vs KKR clash.
Starc calls for tactical adaptation
While acknowledging the role of the Impact Player rule in shaping IPL dynamics, Starc also credited the quality of batting displayed by players. He stressed the need for teams to adopt a strategic approach, balancing aggressive batting with tactical awareness in order to succeed in the tournament.
“There’s no fear in the powerplay when all you have to do is clear the infield and score runs. Certainly, there has been some really good batting, don’t get me wrong, it’s not just the rules that play a part there,” added Starc.
