IPL 2026: ‘Impact sub rule is great opportunity for young players’ - Prabhsimran Singh backs rule amid criticism

Published - 09 Apr 2026, 21:32 IST | Updated - 09 Apr 2026, 21:34 IST

Punjab Kings opener Prabhsimran Singh has strongly backed the IPL’s Impact Player rule, calling it a game-changer for young cricketers. The 25-year-old also revealed that he models his wicketkeeping on MS Dhoni, highlighting the legendary keeper-batter’s influence on his game.

In the ongoing IPL season, Prabhsimran has scored 80 runs in two innings for PBKS. The franchise had retained him ahead of the mini-auction, considering his impressive performances in IPL 2025, where he amassed 549 runs in 17 innings.

"As a youngster, I see the Impact Sub rule as a great opportunity for young players, and I have said this several times. Many don't like it because, obviously, a team can take more high-risk decisions when a player be it a batter or bowler is added to the side," said Prabhsimran as quoted by India Today.

"But for young players, it's invaluable. When I joined the (PBKS) franchise, I spent eight years with them, and for four of those years, I didn't get many chances to play. Sitting on the sidelines, I always hoped for a shot, and now, because of the Impact Sub rule, I feel the opportunities for youngsters have increased significantly," he added.

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The Impact Player rule in the IPL has sparked debate among experts, with many arguing that it tilts the balance in favour of batters while diminishing the importance of all-rounders. However, Prabhsimran sees it differently, describing it as a valuable platform that allows fringe players to showcase their talent and seize opportunities that were previously limited.

With India boasting several top-order wicketkeeper-batters such as KL Rahul, Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, and Ishan Kishan, competition for places remains intense. Despite this, Prabhsimran emphasised that he prefers to stay true to his natural batting style rather than imitate others. At the same time, he continues to refine his wicketkeeping skills by closely observing and learning from Dhoni.

"You cannot say I try to copy anyone...they are all my seniors, and each has their own style of play, while I have mine. Now that I am keeping as well, I have watched Mahi bhai's keeping his hands so fast. I don't try to copy anyone in batting, but when it comes to keeping, I consciously make an effort to be like Mahi bhai,” said Prabhsimran.