Sanjay Manjrekar, a former batsman, has expressed his displeasure with the ‘bizarre’ turnarounds that have occurred in numerous IPL 2021 games. He believes that players who are past their peak and those with ‘average ability have contributed to the tournament’s most difficult’ season.
Manjrekar’s comments after Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) final-over victory over Delhi Capitals (DC). KKR were on their way to a 136-run target when they slumped from 123-1 to 130-7 in just five overs. When Rahul Tripathi drove his team home with a maximum against Ravichandran Ashwin, the equation changed from 13 off 24 balls to 6 of 2.
“I have followed the IPL very closely, but this has been a very unique IPL. We have seen some quality players but we have (also) seen a large number of guys who are either ability-wise, quite ordinary to begin with, or players who are past their prime…You have got these very good players and then there’s a huge chunk of out-of-form players, players past their prime, and players with the ability (seeing which) you wonder whether they belong here. And that’s why we have seen so many bizarre ends and turnarounds. This has been, for me, the most frustrating IPL to watch.” he said
Manjrekar admitted that this season’s pitches have aided most bowlers. However, he also stated that the hitters have been unable to match the bowlers‘ abilities, as they appear rusty even towards the end of the season.
Aakash Chopra
Other analysts, such as cricket Aakash Chopra, have questioned the IPL’s declining skill quality. It will be interesting to watch whether the inclusion of two new teams next season enhances or degrades the quality.
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