Which team used the impact player rule best in IPL 2025?

The IPL managing body introduced the Impact Player (IP) rule to offer each team an extra edge over a difficult situation. It can be a batter or a bowler as an impact player. IP is an extra tool, which can be used by every Indian Premier League team during an innings. Applying this rule properly can turn a match. On the contrary, a wrong move can push a team into deep trouble. It is necessary to keep in mind that this rule is optional— teams have the choice whether to use it or not. 

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So far in IPL 2025, Delhi Capitals (DC), with their tactics regarding using an IP rule, flabbergasted the team on the opposite end multiple times. There are multiple occasions when an DC Impact Player successfully pulled them out of a threatening situation or at least offered them more air to breathe. 

Last night (April 13), when Delhi Capitals met with Mumbai Indians, Karun Nair as an impact player was very close to assembling a match-winning innings. Nair's 89 could have a fairytale if DC wins at last. 

The best example to use an impact player to overcome the challenge and become victorious was in the Lucknow Super Giants vs DC match. In a neck-and-neck compition between these teams on March 24, Ashutosh Sharma, the Impact Player of DC, produced an unbeaten 66-run knock and led his team to victory by one wicket. 

So far, DC impressed with their unique approach 

As mentioned above, Impact Player is an optional tool, not an obvious one. Capitals did not put this rule into effect during the matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)—DC management relied on their playing XI most of the time. This approach helped them in the points table so far. Delhi Capitals, led by Axar Patel, are now one of the clear favorites to win the IPL 2025. After playing 5 matches, they won 4 in a row and bagged 8 points, which allowed them to capture the second spot on the ladder.