Sunil Gavaskar, former captain of the Indian cricket team, has strongly criticized the ICC’s concussion substitute policy. Gavaskar believes the current rule, which allows for like-for-like replacements, is being exploited, even in situations where he sees a lack of competence.
The ICC guidelines allow a player to be replaced if they sustain a concussion or suspected concussion during a match, subject to specific conditions.
The debate was ignited by Rishabh Pant’s injury during a match. Though injured, he returned to bat and scored a half-century, showcasing his dedication.
During an interview, Gavaskar remarked, “I’ve always felt that you are giving a like-for-like substitute for incompetence. If you are not good enough to play short-pitched bowling, don’t play Test cricket; go and play tennis or golf. You are giving a like-for-like substitute for somebody who can’t play the short ball and gets hit.”
He proposed the establishment of a dedicated committee, possibly including medical professionals, to assess injuries and avoid any potential bias or perceived favouritism in injury assessments.