Full List of Concussion Substitutes in IPL History
Prioritizing Player Safety: The IPL Concussion Substitute Rule
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is renowned not only for its explosive batting and high-stakes drama but also for its willingness to embrace innovative rules that enhance the game. Among the most critical regulations introduced in recent years is the concussion substitute rule. Developed as a direct response to the inherent risks of head and neck injuries, this rule ensures that player welfare remains at the forefront of the competition.
When a player suffers a confirmed or suspected concussion, the match referee can approve a replacement. Crucially, the substitute must be a ‘like-for-like’ player to maintain the balance of the match. This protocol ensures that teams are not penalized for the unfortunate misfortune of a player’s injury while maintaining the competitive integrity of the sport.
As the game evolves, so does the frequency of these protocols. In the 2026 season alone, we have already witnessed two significant incidents. Let us delve into the historical record of these substitutes to understand their impact on the game.
1. Vishnu Vinod for Ishan Kishan (IPL 2023)
The first-ever instance of a concussion substitute in the history of the league occurred during the Qualifier 2 match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans in 2023. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan sustained a concussion following an accidental collision with teammate Chris Jordan while fielding. After an elbow struck him near the left eye, medical staff advised against his continued participation. Vishnu Vinod was subsequently approved as a like-for-like wicketkeeper replacement.
2. Yudhvir Singh Charak for Mohsin Khan (IPL 2024)
The following season brought another unfortunate event during a clash between Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders at the Ekana Stadium. Pacer Mohsin Khan suffered a concerning head injury while attempting a diving catch in the outfield. After landing awkwardly and undergoing immediate medical evaluation, he was ruled out of the match. Fast bowler Yudhvir Singh Charak was brought into the side as the approved substitute.
3. Ashwani Kumar for Corbin Bosch (IPL 2025)
During the 2025 season, the rule was invoked during a Mumbai Indians versus Gujarat Titans fixture. All-rounder Corbin Bosch was hit on the helmet by a bouncer from Prasidh Krishna. While he managed to complete his batting cameo, post-innings medical assessments revealed symptoms of a concussion. Consequently, Mumbai Indians utilized the substitution rule to bring in left-arm pacer Ashwani Kumar.
4. Shardul Thakur for Mitchell Santner (IPL 2026)
The 2026 season saw an early invocation of the rule during the match between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings. Mitchell Santner injured himself while attempting a spectacular diving catch in the deep. While the immediate focus was on his shoulder, it was later confirmed that his head and neck made significant contact with the ground during the fall. Shardul Thakur was introduced as the replacement.
5. Tejasvi Dahiya for Angkrish Raghuvanshi (IPL 2026)
Most recently, during Match 65 of the 2026 season between the Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians, Angkrish Raghuvanshi was forced off the field. A collision with teammate Varun Chakravarthy during the Mumbai Indians’ innings necessitated immediate medical attention. Unable to continue, KKR introduced Tejasvi Dahiya as his concussion substitute.
Why the Rule Matters
The implementation of the concussion substitute rule has undoubtedly changed the landscape of the IPL. It removes the pressure on players to ‘play through’ symptoms of head injuries, prioritizing long-term health over immediate game availability. By ensuring a like-for-like replacement, the IPL allows teams to remain competitive while fostering a culture of safety. As cricket continues to become faster and more intense, such protocols serve as a necessary safeguard for the athletes who entertain millions.
