Zaheer Khan bats for controversial rule in IPL

Former India speedster Zaheer Khan has joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a mentor for the upcoming edition of the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL). 

Zaheer replaced Gautam Gambhir, who left the franchise to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2024. Subsequently, Gambhir left KKR to become Team India’s head coach.

Meanwhile, Zaheer has backed the controversial Impact Player Rule in IPL. According to Zaheer, the Impact Player Rule will help in the improvement of Indian cricket. 

“A lot has been said about the impact player rule. I don’t have a problem with the rule,” said Zaheer.

The former India speedster said that although the rule will impact the all-rounders, the genuine ones would continue to be necessary for the franchises. 

“If you are a genuine all-rounder, no one can stop you from winning games. There is always going to be a value for your batting and bowling,” said Zaheer.

Notably, the Impact Player Rule was introduced in the IPL 2023. However, prominent players and coaches have spoken against the rule. 

Star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have expressed their dissatisfactions over the Impact Player Rule. Even many franchises are also against the rule.