IPL 2026 franchises will once again have the option to use an Impact Player during an ongoing match, adding another tactical dimension to the competition. Here’s a match-wise list of all the Impact Players used in the season so far.
IPL 2026: What is the Impact Player rule?
The Impact Player rule, first introduced in the 2023 edition will continue to be a part of the IPL. The rule allows players to name a substitute during a match, adding a strategic element to the game. A team has to name their Impact Player from the pool of five players name before the start of every game. The captains of both teams can introduce an Impact Player during the natural breaks of the game. These include the start of an innings, the end of an over, the fall of a wicket, or when a batter retires.
Read more: Explained: IPL Impact Player, the substitution system that debuted in IPL 2023
Generally, they have to be Indian unless a franchise has not already filled their XI with the maximum allowed quota of four overseas players before the start of the match. It is to be noted that a player who is replaced by the Impact Player can no longer take part in the match.
Though concussion subs can bat or bowl during a match, it is an injury-forced substitution compared to the Impact Player rule, which is a tactical one.
Read more: Why the Impact Player is not really a villain for India's all-rounders
Who was the first Impact Player in IPL?
During the curtain-raiser of IPL 2023, Chennai Super Kings became the first to introduce an Impact Player when they replaced Ambati Rayudu with Tushar Deshpande against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
IPL 2026: Impact Players used so far
Match 1: RCB vs SRH (Bengaluru)
RCB: Devdutt Padikkal for Jacob Duffy
SRH: David Payne for Travis Head
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
