If you ask who is the most balanced team in this IPL, it is undoubtedly Rajasthan Royals. It is evident not only in the players but also in the clear roles given to everyone.
Butler plays the anchor role from maximum time. Jaiswal hits the maximum in the power play and increases the run rate. Sanju looks to keep the momentum going in the middle overs and maintain the run rate. Finish Hatemire. Attack maximum and take wickets in bolt power play. Ashwin looks and bowls in the middle overs with no run rate. Planning that can be called horses for courses such as attacking and throwing enough for Chahal to get wickets. It was evident from Patikal’s batting today. The batting was as if he had been instructed to play with maximum intent without putting any pressure on Buttler.
So a team where every player plays with proper planning, even if one player leaves, their balance will be affected. That is what was seen today in the absence of Bolt. If Boult returns, Rajasthan will have the best bowling and batting line-up in the IPL. It is this meticulous planning that has transformed Rajasthan from mere ‘alos rans’ to a team that can beat anyone and have the potential to win the cup. Sanju and Sanga’s role in it is not small. RCB (my team) should watch and learn this planning of Rajasthan.
Similarly, if a bowler of any other team had taken two sixes in the list over, people including the captain would have been wrapped to give advice to that bowler like a fly is wrapped in a ripe gum. But Sanju and his friends left Sandeep Singh alone. The belief of let him do his job was seen there. Sandeep was able to bowl the last three balls beautifully without adding unnecessary pressure. The last match seemed to be the best example of captaincy not only when to speak but also when to be silent. well done Sanju and his pack of dark horses!
Written by: Anish Swaminath
Credit: Kerala Cricket Fans