The upcoming second season of the International League T20 (ILT20) is about to start, and there are some exciting new changes in the playing rules, namely the introduction of the Super Sub and the Wildcard entry. These rule changes aim to make the tournament more thrilling for teams and enhance their squads.

David White, the ILT20 CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about these changes. He said, “We are excited to introduce the Super-Sub and Wildcard in the DP World ILT20 Season 2. The Wildcard will help the teams further strengthen their squads in the lead-up and during the season while the Super-Sub provides the teams the tactical option of replacing a player during a match. The DP World ILT20 saw some thrilling on-field action in Season 1, season 2 features are set to make the tournament even more interesting and engaging for both the spectators at the stadiums and viewers from around the world.” 

Let's understand what the Super Sub rule entails. Each team can now substitute one player at any point in the match, but this substitution must occur only after the first over of the innings. If requested, the Super Sub can be brought in at the start of the second innings. However, once substituted, a player cannot return to the game.

Here's how the Super Sub process works: The Head Coach informs the fourth umpire, and then the on-field umpires signal the scorers by crossing their wrists above their head, indicating the introduction of a Super Sub. The Super Sub can join after an over is completed or, if the player is a batter, they can enter when a wicket falls or when a batter retires during the over. For the bowling team, they can use a Super Sub when a wicket falls, but if it happens mid-over, the Super Sub cannot bowl the remaining balls in that over.

Now, let's delve into the Wildcard rule! Each team has the option to add two players to their roster, going beyond the permitted limit of 22 players. However, if a team has already spent the maximum of $2.5 million, they can only spend a maximum of 10% of the salary cap, which is $250,000.

If a team hasn't reached the maximum salary spend of $2.5 million, they can use the remaining amount. Additionally, they can spend an extra $250,000 if needed, but they must remain within the Wildcard player spend limit.

The Wildcard players can join the tournament at any stage, but they cannot be replaced by any other replacement or Wildcard players once they've been included.

These new rules aim to add excitement and strategic elements to the tournament, offering teams more flexibility in managing their squads throughout the season.