- The eighteenth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) T20 tournament has been living up to the exalted billing that it enjoys in the sporting world. The cash-rich and lucrative league commands such a huge following, popularity, and acceptance for a variety of reasons. Otherwise, why else would many internationally acclaimed cricketers not wish to skip the annual event to showcase their skills on such widely appreciated platforms in front of teeming crowds? The buzz surrounding the league and the entertainment being dished out by the 10-franchise league needs to be experienced firsthand. Due credit should go to the IPL governing council for dishing out innovative editions year after year, unfailingly, to keep the crowds/fans’ interest intact.
PC: Hindustan Times
- This edition is gradually entering the business end of the league, with the top four teams finally making it to the elimination rounds, fast approaching. It’s time to review where the teams stand vis-à-vis qualifying for the top four after completing 10 league matches each. As you are aware, two teams, viz., five-time champions Chennai Super Kings and inaugural edition winners Rajasthan Royals, are out of the race, failing to deliver on expected lines. It’s disappointing to note how CSK has failed to live up to the hallowed standards set by them all these years. The team has simply failed to click, rendering them ineffectual even in their once formidable and impenetrable home ground, Chennai. We may see lots of changes in the team composition for the next season.
PC: Cricketnmore
- After the initial promise, RR simply withered away, notwithstanding teen sensation 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi making a spectacular 35-ball hundred against Gujarat Titans. Sunrisers Hyderabad have faltered to deceive, unable to sustain the initial momentum by surrendering in the later games from a winning position. Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been steady right from the beginning, dishing out consistent performances to stay on course. Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings have seen mixed results but are still in contention to make it to the top-four finish. Last year’s champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, are found wanting in delivering results, with mixed results defining their campaign so far.
PC: CricXtasy
However, the remarkable turnaround of five-time champions Mumbai Indians must be lauded for the way they have bounced back after initial stutters. After winning one game from their first five, they have now won six games consecutively. The wins are proportionate to the Hitman Rohit Sharma delivering at the top of the order with his usual aggressive starts. The top order is in good batting form, and the quality bowling attack has only been further strengthened by the return of Jasprit Bumrah. MI are at the top of the table, enjoying a healthy net run rate. One win out of the three remaining games will seal their top-four finish. Looks like MI is peaking at the right time and will be a serious contender to go the distance for the record sixth time. Watch out for this space.
