The vagaries of the IPL have spurred many to go for a paradigm shift. Batsmen are opting to innovate and play radical shots to upset their rivals’ plans, and bowlers are adding an array of variations to outwit the willow-wiedlers.
This ‘evolution’ has been a quintessential feautre of the cricketing extravaganza so far. Caught in this intricate IPL web — where survival of the best is the name of ther game — the Indian quickies are also trying to go ‘express’ so that they don’t become predictable.
The new crop of Indian pacers comprising Umesh Yadav, Rahul Shukla, Manpreet Goni et al have so far succeeded in shedding the ‘medium-pacer’ tag. They have largely been successful in trotting the 145kmph mark more often than not, which until a few years back was a dream in Indian cricket.
Among the bowlers in IPL 2013, the sturdy Umesh has gone past the 150kmph mark (fastest 150.14). Only Dale Steyn and Shaun Tait have bowled quicker than him.
Raajsthan Royals quick Rahul Shukla was clocked at 146.14kmph while L Balaji was found hurling that ball at 146.06. Rajasthan’s opening bowler S Sreesanth has also broken the speed barrier with a delivery measuring 145.33kmph.
Kings XI Punjab’s Gony was often found around the 140 mark and once pushed the meter beyond 145 with a delivery which was as quick as 145.08kmp.
So can this be seen as a harbinger of something fast and furious? Veterans see this as a good sign for Indian cricket. Former speedster Javagal Srinath, who was one of the quickest in the world in his playing days, is among the many who feel that genuine fast bowlers can impact the match.
“The element of pace will always have it’s value in any format of the game. As far as Indian cricket is concerned, it’s a welcome change. If a bowler is genuinely quick, he can probably understand and master other tricks that come in the business.” he said.