IPL can take a leaf out of SA20 and introduce some innovative rules: Kevin Pietersen

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has suggested the Indian Premier League (IPL) to try and take a leaf out of SA20’s book with regards to bonus points for teams and captains being allowed to name the final XI after the toss. The ongoing SA20 implemented the interesting and innovative rules in its inaugural edition and they have worked well as the league has become an instant success.

Currently in the SA20 league, each captain has the liberty to nominate 13 players at the time of the toss and select the final XI afterwards. Pietersen said that he is extremely impressed by the new changes and believes such innovations will make the game more entertaining.

Keep changing the game, keep making it more entertaining: Kevin Pietersen

“I don’t mind the new rules. I think the new rules are very, very good. The toss doesn’t play too much of a role. I like the innovation that SA20 has brought to the game. I think that’s brilliant,” Pietersen said in an interaction arranged by Sports18 and Jio Cinema.

“Offering bonus points is also a great idea. You can see bonus point has played a role here. I mean, you want to change the rules to make it more entertaining for everybody. Then why not keep progressing? Keep changing the game. Keep making it more entertaining. And also keep the players on their toes. I think the IPL can also implement this,” he added.

Pietersen also opened up on England’s new and aggressive style of play. He suggested that India should try and adopt a similar style of play without worrying about the outcome.

“It’s the mindset. I think they’ve got a coach that is making sure that they’re not scared of failing. They’re not worried about failure. If you get out there, probably, they don’t care about getting out, they just go out and play without fear of failure.I think India should follow it. I think India bats too slowly, despite have the players. They have the players, but still. They must go out there and emulate what England are doing,” he said.