Aakash Chopra warns about 'like-for-like' concussion substitute rule
What's the story
Former cricketer turned commentator, Aakash Chopra, has raised concerns over the 'like-for-like' clause in the concussion substitute rule. This comes after Harshit Rana was named as Shivam Dube's concussion substitute during the 4th T20I against England in Pune. Despite Dube's impressive performance (53 off 34 balls), he was substituted by Rana due to a helmet strike from Jamie Overton.
Match outcome
Rana's contribution and Buttler's displeasure
Rana was instrumental in India's 15-run win over England, having finished with 3/33. However, his selection as a concussion substitute led to a debate over fair play. England captain Jos Buttler was unhappy with India's decision after the match, saying "We don't agree with concussion substitute. It's not a like-for-like replacement," during the post-match interaction. He further added, "I think either Shivam Dube put on 25mph with the ball or Harshit Rana has improved a lot with his batting."
Rule clarification
Chopra seeks clarity on 'like-for-like' rule
Echoing Buttler's concerns, Chopra also called for clarity on the 'like-for-like' rule. "This 'concussion sub' rule with the 'like for like' clause has opened a Pandora's box. Substitution has to be allowed by the Match Referee. Team asking for it has to propose name/s. Yesterday's decision left some questions unanswered," Chopra wrote on X. He emphasized that substitution decisions should be approved by the Match Referee and proposed by the team requesting it.
Twitter Post
Here is Chopra's post!
This ‘concussion sub’ rule with the ‘like for like’ clause has opened a Pandora’s box. Substitution has to be allowed by the Match Referee. Team asking for it has to propose name/s.
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) February 1, 2025
Yesterday’s decision left some questions unanswered—
Say if Tilak got subbed—would it be okay to…
Rule interpretation
Chopra's hypothetical scenarios highlight rule ambiguity
Chopra further emphasized the ambiguity of the rule by giving hypothetical examples of players Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma. He stated, "Say if Tilak got subbed-would it be okay to bring Sundar in the second innings? If Abhishek got subbed-Can India replace him with Jadeja/Axar as a bowler in the second innings?" Meanwhile, he then added saying, "Asking these questions now because India could be at the receiving end in the future...say in an ICC knockout game."