The first T20 tournament was a resounding success, as a result England will be under a lot of pressure to reproduce a tournament as memorable as the first. Having said that, T20 has always been entertaining and it should be an enthralling carnival.
What's especially great about this format is that games are very unpredictable, and the minnows of other formats of the game can prosper in the shortest version. Those who have watched the recent IPL would require no further examples.
Below is a look at the teams for this year's tournament along with my predictions.
• IRELAND, SCOTLAND AND NETHERLANDS
Very few people would place their money on the three associates to make the finals of the T20 World cup, but in this format no one can laugh at another's predictions. These three teams have the talent and ability to surprise any of the big guns, but the fact that they are inexperienced may count against them and they may not make it to the second round easily.
Look out for:
These three teams have some players who have made headlines in the past. Gavin Hamilton has been Scotland's main player, as shown in previous ODI world cups - remember the time he made the fastest World Cup century against West indies in 2003?
Ireland did well in 2007, and some names in the present line-up should ring some bells - Boyd Rankin, the O'briens and Trent Johnston their main allrounder.
And undoubtedly the only recognizable name in the Dutch team would be Dirk Nannes - the fast bowler who made headlines in the recent IPL for being the reason wy Glen Mcgrath didn't get a game for the Delhi Daredevils. The English conditions should suit him well.
• ENGLAND
They may have home advantage, but again that wouldn't help much in T20 cricket. England have opted to use a more experienced team instead of giving "specialists" from the county scene a go in this year's world Cup. They seem to be more confident, but they haven't been a force to reckon with in any format of the game. Thus they may make it to the Super Eights as they're in the same group with Netherlands but may not proceed further.
Look out for:
Kevin Pieterson is England's trump in any format, and in T20 he can single handedly turn games around.
Ravi Bopara has been making headlines recently and surely he will be an important part of the English batting line-up.
The pace duo of Stuart Broad and James Anderson have also been impressive and England's bowling attack will rest heavily on these two.
• WEST INDIES
West indies have always have the talent to be world-beaters, but they have been one cricket's most underperforming team in recent years. They are in a tough group along with Australia and Sri Lanka and have to depend on their big guns to take them through the Super Eights. If they do, it will be an even harder task to get to the semis.
Look out for:
Chris Gayle has the distinction of being the only centurion in international T20's so far. He is one of the most destructive openers in world cricket and will no doubt be the key man for West Indies.
Fidel Edwards is the key bowler for West Indies - he is fast and lately he has shown that he has groomed into an effective and dangerous bowler. If he can take early wickets that should put West Indies in the box seat early in the innings.
• BANGLADESH
Bangladesh has been a team that has always shown potential, but has overall been disappointing on the field too. They nevertheless have the ability to go to the second round like the last tournament. The main task however is to stay consistent if they do get to the second round.
Look out for:
Shakib Al Hassan has been Bangladesh's stand out performer in recent times and he can have the ability to surge Bangladesh to victory in a format which can rely on individual performances to cross the final line.
• NEW ZEALAND
In the first tournament New Zealand reached the semis, but as with other previous ODI world cups they failed to reach the big stage. They have the talent to go to the semis this time again, but again not many would put their money on new zealand making the finals.
Look out for:
Brendon Mccullum and Jesse Ryder are one of the world's most dangerous openers, thus how they perform will largely determine the score new zealand gets. Vettori is one of t20's best bowlers and would be a cricital member of new zealand's bowling attack this time too.
• SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka too have talented and world class players that can help them get through their "group of death" but they aren't renowned to be world beaters in T20 cricket, thus it will be a tough task for them to reach the semis this season. The lack of big hitters in their middle order is their main weakness, thus placing a lot of pressure on their top order.
Look out for:
Muralitharan is always Sri Lanka's trump card and he was in good form in the recent IPL. Lasith Malinga also proved to be one of the format's toughest bowlers.
Sanath Jayasuriya is definitely a key player too. Everyone knows that his contribution with the bat is always vital for Sri Lanka's chances of winning any game.
• PAKISTAN
Pakistan have a young team with an abundance of talent, but it is tough to see them make the semis given that they've been short of exposure to international cricket and are known to be one of the most inconsistent teams. They are hungry for some good cricket and would be hoping for a similar performance to their last tournament.
Look out for:
Shahid Afridi was the man of the tournament in the first edition, and their is a lot of expectations of him in this year's edition too. Which position he should be in the batting line-up has been a dilemma for Pakistan though - personally I think he should open as he has more freedom to go for the big shots.
• AUSTRALIA
Australia usually go into major tournaments being the favorites, but not this time. They haven't mastered the short format but they have the resources to take them all the way. The journey to the semis will however be a tough one for them - especially now with Andrew Symonds absent from the squad.
Look out for:
The Hussey brothers are dangerous in this format. Mitchell Johnson will be vital with the new ball - he has been impressive lately and is one of the best bowlers in world cricket today.
• SOUTH AFRICA
If not for one solitary loss against India, South Africa would have reached the semis of the last edition. As with other World Cup tournaments, South Africa have not yet managed to enter the finals - either due to bad luck or some other misfortune. They are desperate to put history behind them and come out winners - and they are confident as they have on the the best teams in the tournament. If history does not indeed repeat itself, South Africa are one of the favorites to lift the title.
Look Out for:
South Africa's line-up will be full of match-winners, but I think all eyes would be on J.P. Duminy as he is one of the new gems of cricket, with alot of potential and a bright future ahead of him. Even though he is young, he displays great maturity and was his team's best batsman in the IPL.
• INDIA
India are also one of the favorites to lift the trophy - for a second time - as they also are packed with Superstars and match-winners. How they adapt to English conditions would decide their performance in the tournament.
Look out for:
India too have match winners in every position of the line-up. Sehwag and Ghambir are one of cricket's deadliest openers, and Indians would expect Yuvraj Singh to repeat his heroics of 2007. Pragyan Ojha is one of the young bright stars and could be a vital component of their bowling line-up.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
MY IPL ELEVEN
Congrats Deccan! What a final, down to the very last over. It was a fitting end to a very successful tournament - last year's worst team is now the champions.
This year's tournament had a few similarities to last year's: the team least favored to take the cup before the commencement of the season grabbed the cup; the highest scorers were left-handed Australians; the highest wicket takers were left-arm fast bowlers; the Man-of-the-Series went to Austalians; the Man-of-the-finals went to Indians. I wonder what next year would have in store for us.
Now for a look at the overall statistics, to draft an IPL 2009 team.
The openers should be a no-brainer: the famous pair of Gilchrist and Hayden would be anyone's pick for the best opening pair this season. Its amazing how they have reproduced their form of old this season - after retiring from the game.
The number three slot is a very important slot in any form of the game. Deciding the best number 3 batsman this year is thus the toughest choice. Raina was good for Chennai but probably a touch inconsistent. Dilshan played in many positions in the middle order for Delhi and was very successful. I would thus place him at number three as he is good at counter-attacking or defending, depending on the situation at hand.
A.B. De Villiers was Delhi's best batsman and should take fourth spot. He is very reliable and plays according to the situation too. His ability to rotate the strike and strike the big sixes would make him an asset to any team.
Rohit Sharma was voted as the best under-23 Indian player, and I think he highly deserved it, as he was one of the best all-rounders this season. He thus would be my number 5 batsman - another important slot and this batsman is responsible for either providing stability to the middle of the innings, or for being the finisher, and Rohit has those qualities.
Numbers 6 and 7 would be all-rounders, and I think J.P. Duminy and Brad Hodge would be perfect candidates. Duminy made the most number of fifties along with Hayden, and showed great composure when Mumbhai were struggling. Hodge was Kolkata's stand-out player and deserves mention. Even though these were not the respective positions for these players, they are talented enough to fit these roles well.
The next four positions would of course go to specialist bowlers. Purple-cap holder RP Singh should be shoo-in for anybody's IPL team. P.Ojha was also outstanding and would be ideal to choke the batsmen in the middle overs. Anil Kumble was tremendous this season and I would make him the captain as well as he was the main catalyst for the resurgence of Bangalore. Finally I will have Malinga as my strike-bowler: very good at the beginning and death overs.
My IPL XI:
Gilchrist (wk)
Hayden
T. Dilshan
A.B. De Villiers
Rohit Sharma
J.P. Duminy
B. Hodge
A. Kumble (c)
P. Ojha
R.P. Singh
L. Malinga
This year's tournament had a few similarities to last year's: the team least favored to take the cup before the commencement of the season grabbed the cup; the highest scorers were left-handed Australians; the highest wicket takers were left-arm fast bowlers; the Man-of-the-Series went to Austalians; the Man-of-the-finals went to Indians. I wonder what next year would have in store for us.
Now for a look at the overall statistics, to draft an IPL 2009 team.
The openers should be a no-brainer: the famous pair of Gilchrist and Hayden would be anyone's pick for the best opening pair this season. Its amazing how they have reproduced their form of old this season - after retiring from the game.
The number three slot is a very important slot in any form of the game. Deciding the best number 3 batsman this year is thus the toughest choice. Raina was good for Chennai but probably a touch inconsistent. Dilshan played in many positions in the middle order for Delhi and was very successful. I would thus place him at number three as he is good at counter-attacking or defending, depending on the situation at hand.
A.B. De Villiers was Delhi's best batsman and should take fourth spot. He is very reliable and plays according to the situation too. His ability to rotate the strike and strike the big sixes would make him an asset to any team.
Rohit Sharma was voted as the best under-23 Indian player, and I think he highly deserved it, as he was one of the best all-rounders this season. He thus would be my number 5 batsman - another important slot and this batsman is responsible for either providing stability to the middle of the innings, or for being the finisher, and Rohit has those qualities.
Numbers 6 and 7 would be all-rounders, and I think J.P. Duminy and Brad Hodge would be perfect candidates. Duminy made the most number of fifties along with Hayden, and showed great composure when Mumbhai were struggling. Hodge was Kolkata's stand-out player and deserves mention. Even though these were not the respective positions for these players, they are talented enough to fit these roles well.
The next four positions would of course go to specialist bowlers. Purple-cap holder RP Singh should be shoo-in for anybody's IPL team. P.Ojha was also outstanding and would be ideal to choke the batsmen in the middle overs. Anil Kumble was tremendous this season and I would make him the captain as well as he was the main catalyst for the resurgence of Bangalore. Finally I will have Malinga as my strike-bowler: very good at the beginning and death overs.
My IPL XI:
Gilchrist (wk)
Hayden
T. Dilshan
A.B. De Villiers
Rohit Sharma
J.P. Duminy
B. Hodge
A. Kumble (c)
P. Ojha
R.P. Singh
L. Malinga
Sunday, May 24, 2009
THE FAIRY TALE CONTINUES.....
If a list of possible finalists were made at the beginning of IPL 2009, Deccan vs Bangalore would definitely be the last entry, because they were the worst teams last year. The reversal of their fortunes have been unbelievable - much like Rajasthan's story last year, which goes to show how unpredictable T20 is.
Both teams have had contrasting journeys this season, with Deccan having a great start which helped them stay in the top four throughout, while Bangalore peaked at the business end of the tournament to leap to third place. Deccan rely on individuals to make the major contributions, while Bangalore plays together as a team. Both are led by retired legends - one an ever dependable work-horse who wasn't expected to adjust to the faster format of the game, the other a renowned Superstar. Both teams have been the biggest success stories this season, and my feeling is that the champions would be the team who holds their nerve in tonight's tussle.
It's been a fascinating tournament. On paper I feel Deccan would be favorites. But Bangalore are in better form - having won their last 5 games on the trot. May the best team win.
Both teams have had contrasting journeys this season, with Deccan having a great start which helped them stay in the top four throughout, while Bangalore peaked at the business end of the tournament to leap to third place. Deccan rely on individuals to make the major contributions, while Bangalore plays together as a team. Both are led by retired legends - one an ever dependable work-horse who wasn't expected to adjust to the faster format of the game, the other a renowned Superstar. Both teams have been the biggest success stories this season, and my feeling is that the champions would be the team who holds their nerve in tonight's tussle.
It's been a fascinating tournament. On paper I feel Deccan would be favorites. But Bangalore are in better form - having won their last 5 games on the trot. May the best team win.
Friday, May 22, 2009
NOW FOR THE KNOCK OUT STAGE
A Look at the Semis
It has been an exhausting month of non-stop action. There have been plenty close games, great performances on the field, drama off the field, controversies, and great crowds in the great South African grounds - which I think was the most surprising; but it is definitely great to see that the IPL has been a HUGE hit in South Africa. Kudos to the organizers.
We are now at the business end of the tournament, and the best 4 teams will be locking horns to reach the Finals on Sunday. Delhi, the pre-tournament favorites, are still the favorites to grab the glittering trophy. Chennai have probably been the best batting side and are the favorites to take the other spot in the finals. Deccan and Bangalore were the worst teams last year but have gone against all odds to make it to the semis this year.
Review of the league stage
Kolkata
They had a terrible time this IPL, on and off the field. Their coach was talking about having multiple captains, but the captain for the whole tournament was one who had no previous experience in the post and was subsequently blamed for the team's poor performances.
Nevertheless they did very well in their last two games to end on a high - in the process knocking out defending champions Rajasthan out of the competition. If they can sort out their problems, have a different captain, and field a much better team next year, they can definitely do better.
Why they missed out - They were most probably distracted by the many controversies that were unnecessarily surrounding the team. Shah Ruh Khan should have made a better effort to raise the team's spirits (or rather, he should have made some effort). They had too many coaches (yes, unsurprisingly). And they didn't field a very good team - Agarkar was given too many chances though he failed in the beginning of the tournament. Langevelt wasn't given a chance till his last game. Mendis should probably have been used in more games.
Best Players - KKR were good in their batting, esp Hodge who was their most consistent. Mccullum played well too in their last few games, esp their game against Chennai when we saw flashbacks of his 150 in IPL's very first game.
Mumbhai Indians
They were definitely the under performers this year, because on paper they probably had the most balanced team. When they won, they did so convincingly. They lost too many close games, much like last year, and it is proven by the fact that their net run rate at the end of the league was almost the same as Delhi's - the best team. They were IPL's chokers.
Why they missed out - Had they won those close matches, Mumbhai would definitely have been in the semis. Their bowling was good, but their batting too inconsistent, with alot of reliance on Tendulkar and Jayasuriya to give them a good start - the latter being their biggest disappointment.
Best Players - Duminy was their best batsman, and even made 5 half centuries - 3 in losing causes. Malinga was a Purple cap holder for a few games during the tournament as he was one of the most difficult bowlers to hit the big shots against, esp at the death overs.
Rajasthan Royals
The fairy tale couldn't continue this time. The Royals were too inconsistent in the tournament and though their players still showed the same skills and hunger to win as last year they failed to meet expectations, right from their first game when they made 50-odd against Bangalore.
Why they missed out - Their batting was weak, esp with Asnodkar and Greame Smith not firing at the top. Yusuf Pathan was devastating during the first half of the tournament but lost form at the crucial second half.
Best Players - Warne was still the astute captain he was last year, and was Rajasthan's highest wicket taker. Ravindra Jadeja showed that he is a good all-rounder, while Y. Pathan showed that he is one of the most dangerous batsman in T20 cricket.
Kings XI Punjab
They were the secont best team in the league stage last year, but this year they were a weaker team. They did put together some good performances, and I think their best was when they almost chased down 180-odd against Chennai; even though they lost it showed their immense self belief and hunger for victory.
Why they missed out - Inconsistency of their players was the reason for their downfall. They also missed Jayawardena who was injured and didn't play their last few games.
Best Players - Jayawardena was their best batsman, which was why he was deeply missed during the business end of the tournament. Irfan Pathan, though better with the ball, showed his worth as an all-rounder. Yuvraj Singh was inconsistent with the bat but when he scored, he was brutal. He also showed that he is a handy bowler by doing the unexpected feat of claiming two hat-tricks in the tournament.
Deccan Chargers
They won their first 4 games, but got inconsistent after. They do have match-winners in their team and they have shown more confidence than last year.
Strengths - They have strong performers who can make Deccan win against any team - RP Singh and P. Ojha with the ball; Gilchrist, Symonds, Gibbs and Sharma with the bat. On paper they have a strong line-up.
Best Players - RP Singh is the tournament's purple cap holder, while Ojha has been very good too. Their top order batsmen have made contributions in the tournament, esp Rohit Sharma who played a couple of gems when the going was tough.
Bangalor Royal Challengers
They are definitely the surprise package in this year's edition. They didn't have a good start to the tournament but once Anil Kumble vbecame captain things turned around amazingly for the Royal Challenges. Consecutive victories towards the end of the tournament ensured that they go into the semis as one of the teams in form.
Strengths - They have got a balanced side, with different players contributing to the team's success. Kallis esp has been consistent as an all-rounder and is well supported by the other batsmen and bowlers. Anil Kumble's captaincy has also been the catalyst for their resurgence.
Best Players - Kallis is their main all-rounder, Kumble their main strike bowler. Ross Taylor and Boucher have also made important knocks with the bat.
Chennai Super Kings
They didn't have the best of starts to the tournament, but with M.S. Dhoni you can always expect a change in fortunes to occur at any time. He has led them well, and has got the tournament's highest scorer. They are favorites to go to the finals.
Strengths - They are a batting-heavy side.
Best Players - Definitely Mathew Hayden, who is showing very good form. Dhoni and Raina have also been good with the bat.
Delhi Dare Devils
They have been the most consistent performers with the bat and have lived upto the tag of being the pre-tournament favorites. They have a good all-round team and having players like McGrath and Vettori warming the bench just shows how strong their team is.
Strengths - Last year it was their openers. This year it is their middle order. A.B De Villiers has been outstanding, with Dinesh Karthik and esp T. Dilshan giving him good support. Their opening bowlers - Dirk Nannes and Ashish Nehra, have also done well.
Best Players - Nehra is their best bowler, and has consistently taken wickets at the beginning of the innings, while A.B De Velliers and Dilshan have been their best batsmen.
It has been an exhausting month of non-stop action. There have been plenty close games, great performances on the field, drama off the field, controversies, and great crowds in the great South African grounds - which I think was the most surprising; but it is definitely great to see that the IPL has been a HUGE hit in South Africa. Kudos to the organizers.
We are now at the business end of the tournament, and the best 4 teams will be locking horns to reach the Finals on Sunday. Delhi, the pre-tournament favorites, are still the favorites to grab the glittering trophy. Chennai have probably been the best batting side and are the favorites to take the other spot in the finals. Deccan and Bangalore were the worst teams last year but have gone against all odds to make it to the semis this year.
Review of the league stage
Kolkata
They had a terrible time this IPL, on and off the field. Their coach was talking about having multiple captains, but the captain for the whole tournament was one who had no previous experience in the post and was subsequently blamed for the team's poor performances.
Nevertheless they did very well in their last two games to end on a high - in the process knocking out defending champions Rajasthan out of the competition. If they can sort out their problems, have a different captain, and field a much better team next year, they can definitely do better.
Why they missed out - They were most probably distracted by the many controversies that were unnecessarily surrounding the team. Shah Ruh Khan should have made a better effort to raise the team's spirits (or rather, he should have made some effort). They had too many coaches (yes, unsurprisingly). And they didn't field a very good team - Agarkar was given too many chances though he failed in the beginning of the tournament. Langevelt wasn't given a chance till his last game. Mendis should probably have been used in more games.
Best Players - KKR were good in their batting, esp Hodge who was their most consistent. Mccullum played well too in their last few games, esp their game against Chennai when we saw flashbacks of his 150 in IPL's very first game.
Mumbhai Indians
They were definitely the under performers this year, because on paper they probably had the most balanced team. When they won, they did so convincingly. They lost too many close games, much like last year, and it is proven by the fact that their net run rate at the end of the league was almost the same as Delhi's - the best team. They were IPL's chokers.
Why they missed out - Had they won those close matches, Mumbhai would definitely have been in the semis. Their bowling was good, but their batting too inconsistent, with alot of reliance on Tendulkar and Jayasuriya to give them a good start - the latter being their biggest disappointment.
Best Players - Duminy was their best batsman, and even made 5 half centuries - 3 in losing causes. Malinga was a Purple cap holder for a few games during the tournament as he was one of the most difficult bowlers to hit the big shots against, esp at the death overs.
Rajasthan Royals
The fairy tale couldn't continue this time. The Royals were too inconsistent in the tournament and though their players still showed the same skills and hunger to win as last year they failed to meet expectations, right from their first game when they made 50-odd against Bangalore.
Why they missed out - Their batting was weak, esp with Asnodkar and Greame Smith not firing at the top. Yusuf Pathan was devastating during the first half of the tournament but lost form at the crucial second half.
Best Players - Warne was still the astute captain he was last year, and was Rajasthan's highest wicket taker. Ravindra Jadeja showed that he is a good all-rounder, while Y. Pathan showed that he is one of the most dangerous batsman in T20 cricket.
Kings XI Punjab
They were the secont best team in the league stage last year, but this year they were a weaker team. They did put together some good performances, and I think their best was when they almost chased down 180-odd against Chennai; even though they lost it showed their immense self belief and hunger for victory.
Why they missed out - Inconsistency of their players was the reason for their downfall. They also missed Jayawardena who was injured and didn't play their last few games.
Best Players - Jayawardena was their best batsman, which was why he was deeply missed during the business end of the tournament. Irfan Pathan, though better with the ball, showed his worth as an all-rounder. Yuvraj Singh was inconsistent with the bat but when he scored, he was brutal. He also showed that he is a handy bowler by doing the unexpected feat of claiming two hat-tricks in the tournament.
Deccan Chargers
They won their first 4 games, but got inconsistent after. They do have match-winners in their team and they have shown more confidence than last year.
Strengths - They have strong performers who can make Deccan win against any team - RP Singh and P. Ojha with the ball; Gilchrist, Symonds, Gibbs and Sharma with the bat. On paper they have a strong line-up.
Best Players - RP Singh is the tournament's purple cap holder, while Ojha has been very good too. Their top order batsmen have made contributions in the tournament, esp Rohit Sharma who played a couple of gems when the going was tough.
Bangalor Royal Challengers
They are definitely the surprise package in this year's edition. They didn't have a good start to the tournament but once Anil Kumble vbecame captain things turned around amazingly for the Royal Challenges. Consecutive victories towards the end of the tournament ensured that they go into the semis as one of the teams in form.
Strengths - They have got a balanced side, with different players contributing to the team's success. Kallis esp has been consistent as an all-rounder and is well supported by the other batsmen and bowlers. Anil Kumble's captaincy has also been the catalyst for their resurgence.
Best Players - Kallis is their main all-rounder, Kumble their main strike bowler. Ross Taylor and Boucher have also made important knocks with the bat.
Chennai Super Kings
They didn't have the best of starts to the tournament, but with M.S. Dhoni you can always expect a change in fortunes to occur at any time. He has led them well, and has got the tournament's highest scorer. They are favorites to go to the finals.
Strengths - They are a batting-heavy side.
Best Players - Definitely Mathew Hayden, who is showing very good form. Dhoni and Raina have also been good with the bat.
Delhi Dare Devils
They have been the most consistent performers with the bat and have lived upto the tag of being the pre-tournament favorites. They have a good all-round team and having players like McGrath and Vettori warming the bench just shows how strong their team is.
Strengths - Last year it was their openers. This year it is their middle order. A.B De Villiers has been outstanding, with Dinesh Karthik and esp T. Dilshan giving him good support. Their opening bowlers - Dirk Nannes and Ashish Nehra, have also done well.
Best Players - Nehra is their best bowler, and has consistently taken wickets at the beginning of the innings, while A.B De Velliers and Dilshan have been their best batsmen.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
END OF THE FIRST HALF
Last year, half-way into the IPL we had an idea who would be the teams to beat in the competition. This year, 7 teams have a realistic chance of making the top 4. Contests have been tighter and every match is vital to all teams.
PROBABLE SEMI FINALISTS
Tough to say at this moment. Pre-tournament favorites Delhi have done well to keep that tag as they have lost the least number of matches. If they keep their momentum going they can end on the top of the table.
Deccan had a wonderful start, then lost their way by losing 3 games in a row but with their last win against Mumbhai they have shown that they are very determined to reach the final four.
Chennai didn't have the best of starts in the beginning of the tournament, but have won their last 3 games and seem to have finally decided on their perfect combination, team-wise.
Rajasthan have shown the magic they show-cased in last year's tournament, despite not being as consistent. The possession of some very talented cricketers, no less Yusuf Pathan, continues to make Rajasthan a powerful force in the IPL.
BIGGEST FLOP(S)
Enough has been said about Kolkata's mis-fortunes this season. They have won only one game, and it is very unlikely that they will make the top 4. I think Ganguly should be given the reins back - he is one player who has the ability to lift a team as he has shown in the past.
A number of players too have disappointed this season, either on the base of their reputation or form last year. Andrew Flintoff and Pieterson, bought for huge chunks this year, have not performed to standard. Jesse Ryder was tipped to be this year's Shane Watson but he has been no-where close. Jayasuriya has had a good strike rate but his average is poor. Greame Smith had a bad tournament until his last game. Harbajan has not been among the wickets, and Gony hasn't been as effective as last year.
Probably the biggest flop is McCullum, who really hasn't made any worthy contribution since his 100 in the IPL's very first game.
PLAYERS MISSING IN ACTION
Most Aussies have been missing due to their tournament against Pakistan, but would be joining their respective teams after it is over. The English and West Indians just left to play against each other. Non of the Bangladeshis have got a game.
Mcgrath hasn't had a chance to play yet due to Delhi's good bowling attack. Ntini hasn't played a game as well as Dhoni wants to stick with his current quartet of foreigners.
And of course, Pakistan.
BIGGEST SURPRISES
Who said T20 is not a place for spinners? Anil Kumble and P. Ojha have been among the wickets, and not many would have expected them to be tough bowlers in this format. The same goes for the unknown Jakati, who has grabbed two 4-wicket hauls in just two games.
Kallis had a terrible tournament last year, but is amongst the runs this year, thereby defying critics who have said that he is not suitable for this format. Dilshan is said to be one of the most underrated batsmen and he has shown why by being Delhi's best batsman in a team full of other big names at the top of the order.
For me, the biggest surprise is Hayden. He had a horrible time with the bat just before retirement, but at present he is batting like the Hayden of old. One of the most important wickets to get in the IPL.
MY BEST XI
(4 foreign players only allowed in team)
Hayden
Tendulkar
Raina
Dilshan
Y Pathan
MS Dhoni (wk/c)
Jakati
RP Singh
P Ojha
Malinga
Y Abdulla
PROBABLE SEMI FINALISTS
Tough to say at this moment. Pre-tournament favorites Delhi have done well to keep that tag as they have lost the least number of matches. If they keep their momentum going they can end on the top of the table.
Deccan had a wonderful start, then lost their way by losing 3 games in a row but with their last win against Mumbhai they have shown that they are very determined to reach the final four.
Chennai didn't have the best of starts in the beginning of the tournament, but have won their last 3 games and seem to have finally decided on their perfect combination, team-wise.
Rajasthan have shown the magic they show-cased in last year's tournament, despite not being as consistent. The possession of some very talented cricketers, no less Yusuf Pathan, continues to make Rajasthan a powerful force in the IPL.
BIGGEST FLOP(S)
Enough has been said about Kolkata's mis-fortunes this season. They have won only one game, and it is very unlikely that they will make the top 4. I think Ganguly should be given the reins back - he is one player who has the ability to lift a team as he has shown in the past.
A number of players too have disappointed this season, either on the base of their reputation or form last year. Andrew Flintoff and Pieterson, bought for huge chunks this year, have not performed to standard. Jesse Ryder was tipped to be this year's Shane Watson but he has been no-where close. Jayasuriya has had a good strike rate but his average is poor. Greame Smith had a bad tournament until his last game. Harbajan has not been among the wickets, and Gony hasn't been as effective as last year.
Probably the biggest flop is McCullum, who really hasn't made any worthy contribution since his 100 in the IPL's very first game.
PLAYERS MISSING IN ACTION
Most Aussies have been missing due to their tournament against Pakistan, but would be joining their respective teams after it is over. The English and West Indians just left to play against each other. Non of the Bangladeshis have got a game.
Mcgrath hasn't had a chance to play yet due to Delhi's good bowling attack. Ntini hasn't played a game as well as Dhoni wants to stick with his current quartet of foreigners.
And of course, Pakistan.
BIGGEST SURPRISES
Who said T20 is not a place for spinners? Anil Kumble and P. Ojha have been among the wickets, and not many would have expected them to be tough bowlers in this format. The same goes for the unknown Jakati, who has grabbed two 4-wicket hauls in just two games.
Kallis had a terrible tournament last year, but is amongst the runs this year, thereby defying critics who have said that he is not suitable for this format. Dilshan is said to be one of the most underrated batsmen and he has shown why by being Delhi's best batsman in a team full of other big names at the top of the order.
For me, the biggest surprise is Hayden. He had a horrible time with the bat just before retirement, but at present he is batting like the Hayden of old. One of the most important wickets to get in the IPL.
MY BEST XI
(4 foreign players only allowed in team)
Hayden
Tendulkar
Raina
Dilshan
Y Pathan
MS Dhoni (wk/c)
Jakati
RP Singh
P Ojha
Malinga
Y Abdulla
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
10 days into IPL season 2
The Match
Kolkata vs Rajasthan. The first ever IPL tie - and it should have ended just there. A tie is more Romantic than a "Super Over".
The bowling Spell
Who ever heard of 5 wickets for 5 runs in an IPL match? Well done, Kumble.
The innings.
He wants to be the best batsman in the world. AB De Villiers shows his intentions with the first ton in this year's IPL. No one can laugh at his statements now.
The Veteran(s)
Last year fresh faces and those unheard of were making headlines. This year, players nearing retirement and even those who have retired have taken almost all the Man of the Match awards. T20 keeps bringing surprises.
The New face
Kamran Khan. Shane Warne keeps bringing surprises too.
The Openers
Gibbs/Gilly or Sachin/Sanath? Deccan won the battle when these two teams met, but the Sachin/Sanath show against Kolkata sent shivers down everyone's spines. If you were not a Mumbhai fan.
The upset
Bangalore beating the defending champions. Bangalore haven't won a match after that game. Makes it all the more upsetting for Rajasthan.
The way to break the momentum
Have a "strategic" time out. Unwanted nonsense.
Kolkata vs Rajasthan. The first ever IPL tie - and it should have ended just there. A tie is more Romantic than a "Super Over".
The bowling Spell
Who ever heard of 5 wickets for 5 runs in an IPL match? Well done, Kumble.
The innings.
He wants to be the best batsman in the world. AB De Villiers shows his intentions with the first ton in this year's IPL. No one can laugh at his statements now.
The Veteran(s)
Last year fresh faces and those unheard of were making headlines. This year, players nearing retirement and even those who have retired have taken almost all the Man of the Match awards. T20 keeps bringing surprises.
The New face
Kamran Khan. Shane Warne keeps bringing surprises too.
The Openers
Gibbs/Gilly or Sachin/Sanath? Deccan won the battle when these two teams met, but the Sachin/Sanath show against Kolkata sent shivers down everyone's spines. If you were not a Mumbhai fan.
The upset
Bangalore beating the defending champions. Bangalore haven't won a match after that game. Makes it all the more upsetting for Rajasthan.
The way to break the momentum
Have a "strategic" time out. Unwanted nonsense.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
T20 FINAL - A MAGNIFICIENT BATTLE AWAITS
What makes the final more interesting is that not many imagined that these two teams would have made it into the semis in the first place. The favorites were the teams that made it to the semis in the ODI World Cup. One reason is that those four teams are still strong, and have the players who could fire in the shortest version of the game. Also, both India and Pakistan are missing their major players and many didn't feel that their young teams would rise up to the challenge. They proved us wrong, and in the process both teams have shown us what probably makes a perfect T20 team. A young, exuberant team that doesn't have too many expectations on their shoulders.
Both India and Pakistan have been brilliant in the tournament. While Pakistan have won the major battles more convincingly, India have managed to hold their nerve when their major battles have come down to the wire.
Both teams are quite evenly matched as well which makes the prospects of the final mouth-watering. They have young teams, flamboyant batsmen, tough bowlers, and brilliant, calm captains. On paper, they have lost a match each. I would however discount the bowl-out, which means that Pakistan are virtually the unbeaten team in the tournament. The final however, will be a whole new ball game; the past will matter very little.
Pakistan have done well when either batting first or chasing. India however, preferred to post a total. It will be interesting to see what will happen at the toss, especially since teams at Johannesburg prefer to chase a total. Statistics show that it is the better option too. India will have to think really hard with regard to what they would want to do when they win the toss.
I would say that the game will be decided when India bats. India have the better batting attack, while Pakistan have the better bowling attack.
Pakistan's bowling attack has more variety and is more menacing. Asif has shown us in the recent past that he can be the next Mcgrath. Shohail Thanvir has been bamboozling everyone with his interestingly wierd action. Shahid Afridi and Mohammed Hafeez have done brilliantly in the spin department and then of course there is Umar Gul who has done magnificently at the end of the innings. Overall, it is an awesome bowling attack that has done very well throughout the tournament.
For India, I would say that RP Singh has been a revelation. He's got movement and pace and has been outstanding. His spell against South Africa was one of the best of the tournaments. Another best was from Sreesanth against Australia, and if he continues in the same vein the Pakistani top order will be in trouble again. Irfan Pathan has had a remarkable come-back with the ball, and so has Harbajan. J Sharma needs to bowl more overs like his last one against Australia.
Pakistan's top order has been fragile, except for Nazir's performance in the semi final. Pakistan will be relying on him to carry on that form if they need a good start. Misbah and Shoaib Malik have however been outstanding with the bat, and it will be difficult to shake off the Pakistani middle order. Especially with Afridi yet to come.
All of India's batsmen have made contributions throughout the competition. The openers have given India good starts, Utappa and R Sharma have impressed, while Dhoni has been dashing as usual. And of course there is their trump card, Yuvraj.
BATTING FINDS
For Pakistan, it has to be Misbah ul Haq. He has responded well to the criticism he got after being picked ahead of Yousuf.
For India, R Sharma and Uttappa have been dazzling, but Ghambir has been their highest run scorer and has done very well as opener.
BOWLING FINDS
For Pakistan it is of course Thanvir with his wierd action. Has done very well in filling Shoaib Akthar's shoes. Except that he seems more well behaved.
For India, RP Singh. Simply outstanding.
BIG GUNS
Shoaib Malik has led from the front with the bat, while Afridi has been more effective with the ball, interestingly.
Dhoni has done hit bit with the bat, Harbajan has shown that he still has it with the ball. And then there's Yuvraj.
CAPTAIN FANTASTIC
Both captains have attracted a lot of praise. They are cool, calm, and have led from the front. Dhoni especially has impressed because even though he is an aggressive batsman, he doesn't show that in his personality. He wants his boys to have fun in the middle. Malik has done well to gel his team together, and this is a team that has been known to be notorious in the past when it comes to unity.
ON THE FIELD
They're not known to be very good fielding teams, but in this tournament they have been excellent in this department. It could be due to the fact that they have young and lively team members that have taken fielding in a serious note. The tournament saw many 'lollipops' being dropped. I wouldn't expect many in the final.
BATTLE TO LOOK OUT FOR
Yuvraj against Umar Gul. Can't wait for it.
MY PREDICTION
It's very tough to say. I would love another tie. But a better bowl-out session please.
A dream finale to a highly entertaining and successful tournament. My last wish is that it should be enthralling, with a lot of excitement and tension, and must come down to the wire. I am confident that it will. I'm already losing my finger nails.
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