This blog is all about the major talking points of the 2nd Test between Australia and India that was spoken in Episode 23 of my Podcast written solely by me, Neha Shetty.

This episode will chronicle India’s legendary win vs Australia in the recently concluded Boxing Day Test match and perhaps one of the highlights for India after the embarrassing 1st test loss.

We will be discussing India’s record on Boxing Day test matches, a snippet on the history of Boxing Day, Prithvi Shaw getting axed, Mayank Agarwal’s disastrous form, Rahane’s captaincy and the unfair jibes at Kohli’s captaincy, Rishabh Pant’s inclusion, the session wise importance and India capitalizing on it.

Additionally we will be focussing on the brilliant century by Rahane, India’s batting, Umesh Yadav’s injury, Steve Smith’s inability to get the big runs and Labuchagne’s impressive run with the bat, Jadeja’s form & Bumrah and Ashwin’s dominance, The mighty debutants- Siraj and Gill and possible changes and new entrants going ahead for Team India and Australia, different permutations and combinations possible. 

After a shameful loss in the first Test, where India were bundled out for mere 36 in the second innings – their lowest total in Tests, the visitors were more than desperate to bounce back in the series and shut their critics. Like they say, ‘a wounded lion is more dangerous’, same was the case with India. The hosts were aiming for redemption and in what better way to make it known with this resounding and reassuring win at MCG. The best possible way for them to heal their wound was to avenge their shameful loss and they did exactly the same by thrashing Australia by eight wickets in their favourite Boxing Day Test at their favourite venue MCG.

Let’s get started with India’s record at Boxing Day test and a small history of the tradition of the Boxing Day Test matches

Boxing Day Test matches are cricket matches that are typically held on December 26, a day after Christmas, in Commonwealth nations Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. But, the most popular one takes place at Australia’s iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

There are many reasons as to why December 26 is called Boxing Day. While one states that the date got the name because alms boxes were traditionally opened in churches on the day, others state that servants were given presents on December 26 for working on Christmas Day. With Boxing Day also celebrated as the feast day of St Stephen, the patron saint of horses, December 26 sees numerous sporting events held across the Commonwealth nations falling under the Southern Hemisphere. The Indian cricket team had first played Australia in a Boxing Day Test in 1985 and have been frequent visitors to the MCG since. India have been part of the Boxing Day Test eight times – in 1985, 1991, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2014, and 2018. However, India has lost five times and drawn twice in their eight Boxing Day Test matches, with their only win at the MCG coming in 2018 where Virat Kohli’s men rode on Cheteshwar Pujara’s century to register a massive 137-run win over the hosts. The other Indian centurions in Melbourne are Virender Sehwag (1), Virat Kohli (1), Ajinkya Rahane (2) and Sachin Tendulkar (1). This certainly has been a hunting ground for Team India for some time especially since 2014 where we had a draw, in 2018 where we won by a massive margin and the recent victory culminating a wonderful run here at Melbourne.

Prithvi Shaw getting axed

Well, this wasn’t much of a surprise considering how he was underperforming. It was unfortunate but that is how cutthroat and unforgiving this format and the management is with respect to how they want everyone to perform at all costs. Considering even how the bench strength is so strong and with players not performing, you’d always have someone else steeping in and making the most. We saw how Shubman Gill replaced him and man, did he impress with some exquisite stroke play and impressive defence. He will have to go back to the drawing board and figure out ways to improve his technique and his mentors and coaches rallying around him in case he wants to make a comeback to this team on his merit. 

Mayank Agarwal’s disastrous form

No one can forget the unforgettable debut that Mayank Agrawal had and those gritty knocks were certainly what made him a batting mainstay and one to continue. His glorious domestic record speaks for itself but he still has to learn how to tackle and face some other major deficits in his batting and the lack of confidence to excel in the toughest format. I’m sure he will be dropped in the 3rd Test and seeing him warm the benches as disheartening as it would be is the fate he will have and his way is only upwards from here, to fight back and stake a claim in this side.

Rahane’s captaincy and the unfair jibes at Kohli’s captaincy

One of the silver lining of this test match except for the unfortunate departure of Kohli was that Rahane, our 2nd best captain would be handed over the reins for captaincy for the remainder of the series. We’ve seen how versatile and exceptional he has been as a captain in the tests he’s led us in the past and this test was no different. His calm and composed demeanour ensured India got through some difficult moments, his run out gesture, his fluent century and so much made it such a delight to watch him and he is certainly one of the best deputies and captains Team India can boast off.

This also brings in another important and rather problematic string of thought to light where on Twitter I witnessed many people trashing Kohli, his captaincy and how him leaving was the best thing that happened. This is sadly the most inaccurate and insensitive thing to say to the captain of your side who’s been there through thick and thin, won you matches and awed us with some unbelievable strategies and tactics as a captain and the batting performances single-handedly ensuring India is on the path of victory that simply cannot be taken for granted or forgotten. He is certainly the glue and the core of this side and what he brings to the table cannot be negated and downplayed. 

Considering how Saha was having a very torrid time with the bat, it was almost certain that Rishabh Pant would take his place in the squad and be the wicketkeeper perhaps for even the remainder of the series which is good to see but unfortunate for Saha who along with Vihari haven’t been contributing enough lower down the order. Coming back after scoring a 100 in the practice game, there was some pressure coming in but he played a cameo in the 1st innings scoring I’d say a handy 29 and partnering well. Primarily his role and Jadeja’s was to deepen India’s batting in the absence of Kohli, and they did execute that to perfection.

His keeping was good, better than his last tour and his constant chatter behind the stumps very funny. Hoping, he can bat for longer and showcase his prowess in the matches coming ahead.

The session wise importance and India capitalizing on it

I think what worked out best in India’s favour was how consistently good they were in all the sessions and even the sessions pie of the entire test showed how dominant we were. Australia looked like they were lacking on so many fronts but India made the most of it and clearly, the results had to tilt in India’s favour. 

The other important aspect was how Indian bowling at no point looked relaxed and were on the accelerator getting wickets and keeping the Aussies under a lot of pressure throughout which was really exhilarating to see. In a test match, it is each of those sessions that really make a difference and making the most of each is what sets a class side from a side struggling to survive in this test and eventually trumping a side to win which is so important.

Wow, I mean that was certainly a masterpiece of an innings and one that will forever be etched in our minds and of course the board of honour of visitors scoring a century. The sheer grit, determination, focus and the classical footwork have to be some highlights of what was a fantastic knock in that first innings. Barring that unfortunate run out, everything seemed perfect and this has to be one of my personal favourite knocks of his standing up and leading from the front.

India’s batting

India’s batting was not quite the dominant one but wasn’t a very dominating one. With Gill, Jadeja and Rahane setting the tone with their magnificent knocks, a huge competitive total, the rest of the batting did contribute and didn’t look their best. Pujara hasn’t been able to capitalize on the starts and with always one of the openers getting dismissed early on, it puts a lot of unwanted pressure on Pujara and the following batsmen coming up. Hopefully, we can see the batting stabilized with a few changes getting incorporated that will be discussed shortly ahead; this is already building up to be a class side. 

Umesh Yadav’s injury 

One of the most unfortunate visuals was seeing Umesh Yadav walk off after injuring himself. It was dreadful. He was bowling so well in tandem with Bumrah and Siraj, the pace troika was just firing and his injury many assumed would end India’s dominance but it didn’t hurt India’s prospects as they continued to pile on Australia’s agony and made the most dismissing them for a lowly 195 and 200 in the respective innings they batted. They rattled the Aussies, the bouncers, the uncomfortable lines and lengths really tested the Aussies beyond comprehension and fingers crossed we get to see the same throughout the other two matches.

Steve Smith’s inability to get the big runs and Labuchagne’s impressive run with the bat

Smith has made scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 in the first two Test matches of Australia’s four-match series against India. Ponting expected Smith to be Australia’s leading run-scorer after he scored back-to-back centuries in the ODI series in the build-up to the Tests. While that prediction looks dead in the water, Ponting is still backing Smith to produce a match-defining innings against India as Australia look to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. While he was knocked over by Ravichandran Ashwin in the first innings of Adelaide and Melbourne, it was Jasprit Bumrah who castled him behind his legs in the second innings. He also claimed how he is usually in control of the spinners but has let Ashwin dictate terms dismissing him and how that was disheartening. I feel he can still turn things around and he is a premier batsman who can make his mark any time soon so watch out Indian bowlers. On that note, I think Labuschagne has been really impressive raking up 48 and a gritty 28 in the two innings he played being the only positive besides Cameron Green and skipper Tim Paine in the batting that has been unable to bat for longer periods of time. Travis Head, Joe Burns, Wade haven’t really stepped up this series. It is being speculated rather, it will happen that Burns will be dropped making way for Warner and Pucovski will be joining the side for the 3rd test thereby solidifying the Australian team and we can look forward to a great battle.

Jadeja’s form & Bumrah and Ashwin’s dominance

India definitely received a huge boost by Jadeja’s return as the all-rounder not only contributed in the batting department but also proved his worth in the bowling and fielding department. Jadeja has long been a very dependable player, I’d say a bowling all rounder for Team India and has almost always contributed with the bat as well. No one can forget those handy knocks in England and even here at home. 

Notably, Jadeja’s batting graph has been on the up since the last two years. In fact, since 2016, Jadeja has a batting average of 46.29 and a bowling average of 24.97. With an average difference of 21.32, Jadeja has been the best all-rounder in world cricket in the last three years, above Ben Stokes, Shakib Al Hasan and Jason Holder. While his bowling has been fantastic and we got to see in the 1st innings, he was very economical and even grabbed a wicket. His 57 in this 1st innings was remarkable and we got to see how well Rahane and he recovered India’s innings and helped put up that 326 in the 1st innings and stamp authority over the Aussies. 

He chipped in grabbing 2 wickets and really was fielding well restricting the Aussies. Overall, he has been a positive and hopefully we get to see a lot more of him donning the whites. Special mention has to go out to Ashwin and Bumrah who’ve been close to near perfect with their bowling putting India in the driver’s seat and Bumrah has been bowling those long spells grabbing 4 and 2 wickets respectively while Ashwin has been deceiving the batsman with his spin taking 3 and 2 wickets respectively. The entire bowling unit clicking together like this is so delightful and hopefully the coming tests ahead we get to see the same. 

The mighty debutants- Siraj and Gill

Replacing Shaw with Gill worked wonders for India as they got off to a good start which they were missing in the first Test. Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj made glorious debuts. They didn’t look nervous or have first match jitters or anxiety and looked like they belonged to the international circuit playing some very mature cricket.

Interestingly, Gill also became India’s third-highest run-scorer on Test debut in Australia when he scored 45 runs on Day two of the ongoing ‘Boxing Day Test’. Moreover, Gill continued his superb form in the second innings as well as he remained unbeaten on 35 to make sure that India crossed the finishing line without much trouble. Shubman Gill was outstanding in both the innings scoring a gritty 45 and in the second innings chasing a measly 70, made a 35 off 36 laced with 7 fours. He was a real positive for us and hopefully, he can capitalize on those starts and give that solid innings in the matches coming ahead. The way he fearlessly battled the Aussies on their home soil confidently was really great to see. 

Mohammed Siraj on the other hand once again impressed picking 2 wickets in the 1st innings and snapping 3 more in the 2nd innings. He provided crucial breakthroughs and complemented Jasprit Bumrah well from the other end with his pace and swing. He was the highest wicket-taker for India in the second innings having bagged three wickets.  Even Rahane on singled out the debutant duo of Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj while commending the tremendous character shown by his side in this crucial win. Hopeful, they can continue to show dominant performances and exciting times ahead. 

Possible changes and new entrants going ahead for Team India and Australia, different permutations and combinations possible

With Umesh Yadav getting ruled out, T Natarajan is likely to make a debut. This would be such a glorious moment and finally a left hand bowler to don the whites. He had been so impressive in the limited overs series. The Indian team management has reportedly added Shardul Thakur to the Test squad after Mohammed Shami was ruled out due to the injury sustained in the Adelaide opener. Shardul and Natarajan were both made to stay for the Test series by the management and now the latter is expected to pip the former for a place in the XI for the third Test. Even Siraj did replace Shami in the playing XI and has made a mark with his performances in the Boxing Day Test. While Navdeep Saini also remains in the fray to replace Umesh in Sydney, the TOI report suggests that Natarajan could be preferred because of the variation he brings to the pace attack. While Rohit Sharma is expected to be match-fit for the third Test, KL Rahul could also be in line for a spot in the team. Rohit might replace the struggling Mayank Agarwal to open alongside Shubman Gill while Rahul might come in place of Hanuma Vihari in the middle-order. This seems like the most likely thing to happen. But again all eyes as to where Rohit Sharma would bat better as in tests, he usually comes down the order which would mean KL Rahul would bat with Gill at the top. Time will tell us. 

Though it seems unlikely that stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane and the management would be keen about making as many changes after an 8-wicket triumph at MCG, Umesh’s injury replacement and Rohit still are the most likely changes to be made.

This blog is all about the major talking points of the 1st Test curated by Achal Gunjal and me, Neha Shetty as a part of the script co-written by us for my Podcast, Never on the Backfoot.

Prithvi Shaw’s disappointing outings 

Prithvi Shaw is certainly going through a very rough patch right now. The amount of hate and the toxic comments that everyone is directing at this young 21-year-old is disheartening. It stems from people questioning his place in the team, ranges right up to his technique and his capabilities. He had a delightful start and a cracking start to his career vs West Indies and even his domestic run was like a dream script till it was halted by the doping ban. Ever since he returned, it has been a rocky one and even the IPL wasn’t where he saw his best exhibit his best. Shaw, whose technique against the in-coming delivery was exposed in both innings of the day-night Test. Social media has been buzzing with his replacement if he deserves to play in the whites and with even experts also weighing in on getting him removed from the team and a lot of other factors. 

His naivety also was exhibited when he shared a quote ridden with grammatical errors as a jibe to all his naysayers. I really wish people around him to ground him, nurture him and help cope with the pressures of international cricket and adapt. It also becomes important for him to be more conducive to criticism, feedback and corrections with technique. His dismissals also have been in a similar fashion and here’s hoping we have the batting coach look over and help him adjust the position and not keep getting out like that.

Mayank Agarwal’s lacklustre set of performances

Mayank Agarwal is someone who has put in a lot of runs in the domestic circuit and has rightly earned his spot in the Indian team. In his short international careers so far, he has impressed everyone, and also became the third-fastest Indian to 1000 test runs. He made his debut in the Boxing Day test last time India toured Australia and impressed everyone. He also ensured India crossed 100 in the 2nd innings with a gusty 40 in the same test. Yes, he failed to score big in both the innings, but survived for 40 balls scoring 17 and 9 respectively. The ball to get him in the 1st innings by Pat Cummins was unplayable, to say the least, I think any batsman would have lost his wicket to that ball. 2nd innings was just that kind of an innings where no one got going so I won’t talk a lot about that. I think he will fight back hard as that is what he has done in the past. He scored a stunning 1000 runs in 3 months after getting a pair in the 2017-18 domestic season. Mayank is an opener for the long run and must not be dropped after a couple of lacklustre performances.  

Australia’s batting collapse in the 1st innings 

I think India displayed incredible character to restrict Australia to 191 in the 1st innings. The pressure built up right at the start when Australia took 28 balls to get off the mark, it’s slowest ever start. Indian bowlers maintained the pressure on the opposition and Bumrah struck twice in his 2nd spell. It was then an Ashwin show to inflict a middle-order collapse and with the help of Umesh Yadav, Australia were reduced to 111/7.

Getting Smith early was a huge relief for the Indian players and the fans alike. However, the old horrors of tail wagging haunted India yet again as Australia managed to put up 80 runs for the last 3 wickets. Paine, I thought was magnificent playing with the tail. He led his team from the front and reduced India’s lead to 53, which at one stage looked well over 100 runs. There are a lot of positives to India’s bowling as Australia were reduced to 191 even after a horrible display of fielding. As many as 6 catches were dropped and the one’s of Labuschagne and Paine proved to be extremely costly. Yadav, the direct like to like a replacement of the most experienced bowler Ishant Sharma impressed me with his improved control over his lines.

India’s batting downfall in their 2nd innings and decoding the collapse from 9-1 to 36/9, how?

Ending Day 2 at 9/1 after dismissing Australia for a paltry 191, India looked in a strong and dominating position looking to make most of the chance and the time they would get to bat. Prithvi Shaw’s early dismissal yet again was disappointing but considering the batting firepower that was still left to come, it was almost foolish to write off India’s chances. But what followed was some unbelievable visuals rather a nightmare for most of us who are probably still in denial as to what transpired on day 3. Everyone predicted that Bumrah partnering Mayank Agarwal would score a handy 30 odd runs as a night watchman and with Pujara, Kohli, Rahane and Vihari a decent lead was expected. But Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were in no mood to give India any sort of leverage as after Bumrah’s dismissal the rest of the batting just fell like a pack of cards showing absolutely no grit or fightback. 

India recorded their lowest ever Test total, 36 in the second innings in Adelaide to lose the first Test by 8 wickets despite having their noses in front for the first two days. Edging all the outside off deliveries like ferrets, India was at 36/9 before a deadly delivery injured Shami rendering him incapable to bat and ruling him out of the series with a fracture. We were forced to declare and Australia obviously had a meagre total of 90 to chase. So, the blow was felt majorly and losing one of our best bowlers certainly did not make things easy and it was as someone said ‘The Great Adelaide Collapse’ we witnessed and a very dark day for Indian cricket. 

Analysis of the surface under the lights, India’s 1st innings collapse and was it expected?

India was going pretty at 188/3 in 76 overs in the 1st innings. And then the Kohli runout happened. The new ball was taken right after 80 overs, which triggered a dramatic collapse. The pink ball swinging and seaming suddenly under the lights is no surprise, but the way the Indian batsman handled it is surely one. Starc and Hazelwood who had got nothing with the 1st new ball had started swinging the ball both ways and trapped Rahane and Vihari respectively in front of the wicket. Saha and Ashwin ensured that India went to stumps without further damage. However, the 2nd new ball was still doing the talking and India was bowled out within half an hour on the 2nd day. I personally had not expected the collapse and was almost certain that India would score something near 300. 

Was Kohli’s run out in India’s 1st innings a big turning point?

I do believe that the way Kohli and Pujara also for that matter were batting so beautifully, really grinding it out there, really tiring the Aussie bowlers, making them toil and ensuring each run counted. Most of the balls were left alone, defended and basically just playing the ball on its merit. It was so delightful to see and Kohli especially was playing that typical knock in test cricket till an unfortunate mix up with Rahane ensured a run-out and a complete downfall for India. 

India was cruising at 188/3 but after Kohli was dismissed (please note, this includes even the 2nd innings) India was just managed 92 runs losing 16 wickets in that pursuit that is almost impossible to believe in retrospect. Rahane clearly looked like he was shaken after that run-out and his body language and the intent was totally off and India couldn’t make much after that point. But this was undoubtedly a turning point as I’m certain Kohli would have converted that into a century or more, added more runs. That run out ensured the momentum completely went to Australia who steamrolled us and the results and scores stand testament to that.

Australia’s pace battery and how they were unbelievable in India’s 2nd innings

Fortunately or unfortunately, that is for you to decide, I missed the worst collapse of the Indian cricket history as I was travelling on the third day of the test. I followed the match on Cricbuzz and later watched the highlights of the Indian parade. The pitch certainly was not one where you would get bowled out for 36. More than the Indian batting debacle, I would give credit to the Australian pacers. They learnt from their 1st inning’s mistake where they bowled a touch too short. They changed their length slightly which proved to be magical. India edged everything that came their way and found themselves asking for answers. Australian bowling and the fielding on the disastrous third day was something that can just not be explained. It just happens once in a decade perhaps. Hazelwood and Cummins stuck to their plans of bowling full, just outside off stump and got rewarded almost every time. 

Lowest totals in history, India’s 36/9 now and the scare of India breaking it?

26 is the dreaded number and India might have been staring down that number when they were 19/6. However, that was not to happen, but India registered their lowest total in test history. 36/9, I think, is this team can go. India’s previous lowest score of 42 all out had come way back in 1974 at Lord’s. Batting maestro G. Vishwanath said that he had never expected the Indian cricket team to break the unwanted record and score less than 42. However, that happened in Adelaide and I will say what Vishwanath said. I do not expect any Indian team, the current team or the future teams to break 36/9. 

India’s fielding 

India had a horrible experience in terms of fielding. As many as six catches were dropped and four of them were pretty straight forward. Two lives to Labuschagne meant he scored a gritty 47 and the dropped catch of Paine cost India around 60 runs. Fielding has been below average right through the ODI series. It has costed India matches quite a few times and the old saying of catches win matches will always remain true. 

Is Vihari the best fit at #6?

Number 6 in a test is a tough spot to bat in. You sometimes have to handle top order collapses, on some days you might be asked to see off the 2nd new ball, and on other days, you will have to score at a quick pace in view of a declaration. For years India had a solid number 6 in first Laxman and then Dhoni. However, India in the recent past has struggled with that position and Vihari has been given a go after his consistent performances in domestic cricket. But, it is to be noted that Hanuma has batted in the top order for Hyderabad. 

This is a tough question to be answered, but for me, Vihari looks like someone who could play in the top order but unfortunately not a perfect fit to bat at 6. However, looking at the lack of options available for the spot, it makes sense only to continue with Vihari at 6 for a couple of more series. If it does not work well, Pant, in my opinion, will grab that spot. Especially in India, where India prefers to play both Ashwin and Jadeja. Keeping the current series in view, Vihari can actually take #4 in the absence of Kohli. He also scored a ton in the tour match at the position. 

Is Saha like the best wicketkeeper option?

Saha has always been the best 1st choice wicketkeeper in tests. He has consistently shown good performances and has been one of the best for Bengal in the domestic circuit. His India sojourn has been that of him keeping so well for India and his batting being handy in some tricky innings but he hasn’t had a breakthrough moment. This 1st test was no different considering how even the other batsmen had disastrous outings, he too didn’t inspire confidence. 

Now immediately everyone is like let’s drop him, get Rishabh Pant as he has scored a gritty 100 the last time we toured down under and even in the practice match, he was effortlessly middling the ball. And with even the recent announcement stating Pant will be making it to the playing 11, this means Saha gets axed and is it fair? Well, that’s how cutthroat the competition is that one bad performance is enough to get the naysayers all solidified on their stance of bringing the next best alternative who they think will deliver the goods. Although this is in the best interest of the team and to solidify the batting, what does this mean to the confidence of Saha and with his age breathing down his neck each of the matches he plays will matter and he will have excess pressure every time he steps out to the crease.

Shami’s debilitating injury

Mohammad Shami has been India’s premier test bowler for a while now. His seam presentation and skill with which he bowls is one of the best in the world. It is really unfortunate for him to get injured by a nasty Pat Cummins delivery. This also ruled him out of the test series. Even though Shami went wicketless in the 1st innings, he looked the most threatening bowler in the 1st session on day 1. Especially when Bumrah and Yadav were not forcing the batsmen into shots. 

The last time Shami toured Australia for a test series, he picked up 16 wickets to compliment Bumrah perfectly. Shami’s injury has added to India’s misery of missing Ishant Sharma already on the bowling front. We will surely see a debut in the 2nd test. Bumrah will be left without his two workhorses for support. 

Ashwin’s performance with the ball

Ravichandran Ashwin’s performance with the ball in the 1st innings was magical. He was the leading wicket-taker with 4 scalps. The wicket of Smith, edging it to the slips and his wild celebration was indicative of how much the wicket meant to him. 

We could see that this was the starting point of his amazing spell with the pink ball deceiving the Aussies with the spin and variations that he was generating snapping the wicket of Cameron Green, Travis Head and not giving anything away to the tail dismissing Nathan Lyon ensuring that he was the primary destroyer in charge of Australia dismissing them for 191. Umesh Yadav and Bumrah with their 3 and 2 wickets respectively really lent India that edge but unable to capitalise on that advantage was what caused India’s downfall.

Jadeja and his role and the question of Team India opting for 2 spinners?

With Jadeja also being named as one of the replacements who would make his way for the 2nd test, maybe this is a good move as he can prove to be a handy batsman and obviously an asset as a spinner for India. This would perhaps mean that Vihari gets dropped and that we would go ahead with two spinners and with him partnering Ashwin, maybe we can see a reversal in fortunes. Sometime back imagining two spinners in the side in Australia was unimaginable but with the surfaces also favouring spinners, it is a welcome sign and unfortunate for Vihari who is really trying to establish himself at 6 but an unfortunate injury is a problem for him lest we forget what an asset he is with a very fruitful and productive domestic career and more opportunities ensuring he can showcase his talent. 

Virat Kohli’s absence and how it will hurt the team

Virat Kohli is certainly the biggest player of the current Indian team. Him taking a paternity leave will surely be a big blow, especially after the debacle in the 1st test. Virat is that personality whom people look upto when something like 36/9 has happened. Adding to this, the Indian skipper was the highest scorer for India in Adelaide. He also took a stunning catch of debutant Cameron Green when India’s fielding looked shaky. India will need to find inspiration from somewhere in Kohli’s absence. It might be from the stand-in captain Rahane or from the experienced campaigner Pujara. 

Although we faced such a humiliating loss, is the constant chopping needed? Like 3 changes are forced but the others and how imperative will that be?

India is going with potentially five changes in the Boxing Day Test after the Adelaide debacle. With Virat Kohli already back in India for the birth of his first child and Shami out of the series with a fractured wrist, multiple changes are expected in the Indian playing XI for the second Test against Australia in Melbourne. The possibility of a five-bowler attack also cannot be ruled out with either Mohammed Siraj or Navdeep Saini getting his Test cap in place of the injured Mohammed Shami.

If India does play both Jadeja, Ashwin and three seamers, that would make it a 5 bowlers attack which would then mean Ajinkya Rahane and Hanuma Vihari batting a spot higher with Gill in the mix and Rishabh Pant could come in place of Wriddhiman Saha purely because of his batting skills, the middle order solidified. Ashwin and Jadeja provide more resistance in the lower order. The fact that both Jadeja and Pant are left-handers, will provide different angles for the Australian bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc is also on the Indian Team management’s mind. Yes, these changes would be imperative and we have to see how KL Rahul and Gill are brought in the scheme of things. 

Gill, an answer to the unstable middle order?

Before this series started, I was almost certain that India had a settled middle order in Pujara, Kohli and Rahane. I still think these three should not be fiddled with for another five years unless something goes awfully wrong. Number six is the only dicey position and I do not see any reason to drop Vihari yet. However, Pant might be more useful at that spot if Vihari fails.  Gill is still young and I would like him to play in home tests when one of the three is rested for workload management. Gill, however, is opening in the boxing day test and can be a standby opener as I see Rohit retire from tests in a couple of years time. 

KL Rahul, where is he the best fit?

Ideally, KL Rahul is the best fit at the top. But we have a plethora of option with Gill, Shaw, Agarwal, Rohit Sharma also coming in the picture immediately people decide he is better at the middle order where he can lend assistance. He has also asserted that his role and the position of his batting will completely depend on the format and being flexible helps for him but the management will likely put him in the opener’s position and eventually have him down the order when Rohit Sharma is back in the fold as the opener. But this would mean Prithvi Shaw warming the bench.  A lot of permutations and combinations possible. With Wasim Jaffer’s cryptic tweet indicating his support to pick Gill and Rahul, maybe it is time to exercise the option. Rahul averages 44 while opening and his attacking mindset will compliment Agarwal’s stone-walling capabilities. On the other hand, Shubman Gill at No.4 can provide a steadying influence. India must now get into the habit of big scores so that the bowlers have something to bowl for and a competitive match can be expected. 

The pressure Rahane is going to face captaining a side coming off a huge loss and what’s running on his mind

Rahane will be under a lot of pressure, especially after such a disaster in the 1st test. As if that was not enough, Rahane will miss the services of important red ball players like Kohli, Ishant, Rohit and Shami. It will be interesting to see how Rahane handles things. I don’t really know what would be going back of his mind. First to pick almost half the side which did not feature in the previous game and then to lead from the front when he is not in the best of his batting forms. If India somehow manages a comeback, Rahane deserves a lot of credit for it.

The need to form a proper test playing core and the role of coaching staff and is a change needed?

India certainly needs a proper test playing core who are the rock of the team. Constant cutting and chopping isn’t the way. Well, give opportunities and in case they don’t perform send them back to the domestic circuit and grind it out there till they can make it back to the team on their merit.The playing core would obviously take time and we can’t expect a sudden miracle. It will take series worth of effort and experimentation. 

And coming to the point of a change in the coaching staff needing a change and all the hate directed to Shastri and the coaching staff is unfair and highly unnecessary and not needed. One bad performance isn’t an indication to change everything and there is no need to jump the gun and do something so instantly. That’s ruled out and for all those using a term like RCB-fication of the Indian team with Shastri and Kohli at the helm doing damage is just so sad and petty rather unfortunate 

Rohit Sharma and his influence as a test player and how much has the absence of two Sharma’s affected? 

Rohit had just started making a mark as an opener in tests. In the two home series that he played against South Africa and Bangladesh, he was phenomenal. Him missing out on the limited-overs series itself was a huge blow, but him not playing the 1st two tests is a bigger blow. He has a brilliant record in Australia and would have been the perfect partner to Mayank Agarwal. Good starts is always the key to winning test matches, especially when playing away from home. It will be a huge sigh of relief once he joins the team for the 3rd test, especially in the absence of Kohli. 

To be honest, India hardly missed Ishant Sharma as Umesh Yadav came good. It will be a challenge henceforth as India will be without Shami too. India might miss the services of Ishant to support Bumrah. However, this should also be seen as an opportunity for youngsters like Gill, Shaw, Siraj and Saini.  

SENA batting collapse and too much limited over cricket influencing test batting? 

The Australian series win in 2018-19 was one of the greatest highlights of the current team but India has failed to drag a test to day five for 3 consecutive tests now. Two in NZ and now in Australia. In fact, India has lost 2-1, 4-1, 2-0 in South Africa, England and New Zealand respectively. India has one of the best bowling attacks currently without a doubt, but batting has constantly led the team down. Too much of limited-overs cricket might be one of the major issues for the team not lasting long durations while batting. We saw that happen with KL Rahul, he entered the International circuit as a test specialist, but now finds himself as the best ranked Indian t20 batsman and out of the test team. Rahane too, in my opinion, has been affected trying to break into the limited-overs team. India needs a clear roadmap ahead and have more test specialists like Pujara and Ashwin, 

Last but not the least let’s focus on BCCI’s announcement before the 2nd test with respect to the squad

BCCI today, a day before the much-awaited Boxing Day Test match announced the team. Australia is planning to go ahead with the same squad. With respect to India, we have Rahane captaining the side with Mayank Agarwal, Shubman Gill (making his debut), Chesteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant(back in the squad) forming a solid batting unit with Jadeja, Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj also making his debut forming the bowling set up and completing this strong side.

Now, we have to note that Shaw and Saha are dropped with Siraj, Pant, Jadeja and Gill making their way. The replacements do look good and I feel we are well set for the test. Pant and Jadeja make the batting look deep and in Kohli’s absence seems like the right step. Siraj has proven his dedication ball credentials with a very good Ranji record and it will be exciting to see him don the whites. KL Rahul seems like a notable exclusion and maybe having him play this test would’ve been ideal and he has matured as a player, shouldering responsibilities is his best part and many were unhappy with his exclusion but again who would he replace in this setup, Vihari? Ok, let’s just not jump to conclusions and further try to make this complicated but time will tell if he would be in the reckoning for tests.

The squad for the 2nd test looks perfect. Though I personally would have liked to see Shaw be given another go before we get Rohit back in the third test. Now there will be a question of who will Rohit replace if Mayank has a good test as you do not want to be dropping Gill after only one match. The other changes looked like forced changes and I’m delighted to see Siraj making a debut. I really hope he performs well and people do not troll him and call him ‘RCB quota’. I read an article a couple of days ago which mentioned the success of Indian spinners when they are bowling in pairs or a three spin attack in Australia. The numbers were rather encouraging. So playing both Aswin and Jadeja makes sense. Pant was an automatic selection after his 100 in the practice match. As far as Rahul is concerned, he will have to wait longer for a test comeback. It is heartening to see the management backing Vihari. 

Were we seeing a repeat of Qualifier 1 today. Yes, this was pretty much it as the teams who topped the league table and were dominant throughout. MI made it to the Finals without much hassle defeating DC. On the other hand, DC had to overcome the obstacle of SRH in that mouthwatering clash and made their presence here in style. This was a very important match for both sides and this summit clash had so much in store for all of us.

DC won the toss and decided to bat first. MI was off to one of the best possible starts with their star bowler Boult dismissing Stoinis, the last match hero for a golden duck in the very first ball of the match.

Dhawan provided the first boundary for DC and they’d certainly be hoping for a lot more. Dhawan was toying with Boult and Bumrah seamlessly hitting them for boundaries. But DC was struck again with another blow when Rahane was dismissed for 2 and this was Boult’s 2nd wicket of the night. Brilliant stuff from the kiwi and DC in serious trouble.

Shreyas Iyer joined Shikhar Dhawan at the crease but their partnership wasn’t allowed to flourish as Dhawan was dismissed for 15. Jayant Yadav, the man replacing Rahul Chahar got this prized wicket and was erasing all the doubts people had about him replacing a crucial player in the final.

Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, the experienced campaigners for DC throughout had to stick it out and prove their mettle today in this all important match failing which DC would never match the standards of this dominant MI team and pose a decent total. They certainly stood up to the occasion stiching a crucial partnership and even registered 50 runs together. They steadied the sinking ship. Bringing up a 100 for DC and at the end of 13 overs were 108/3.

Rishabh Pant brought in a well deserved 50 off 35 balls and continued the runs flurry with consecutive boundaries making the most of Coulter-Nile. But he fought back getting the wicket of Pant for 56 in the same over. Crucial breakthrough and Hetmyer was the new man in.

Shreyas Iyer also brought in a well crafted 50 and DC was still aiming for a big one. Trent Boult got his 3rd when he dismissed Hetmyer who clearly showed no intent and was out. Axar Patel joined his skipper at the crease and hit a boundary from the word go but his stay was cut short when Coulter-Nile got his wicket caught to perfection by the sub fielder Anukul Roy.

A couple of dots and Iyer relieved the pressure with a 6 crossing the 150 mark and the last ball yielded a run and the run out as DC ended with 155/6. Credits to Iyer for a brilliant 65 and MI’s bowling that was splendid. An interesting run chase was on cards and with DC’s stellar bowling set up, there was still a lot to fight for.

MI sent in their dynamic duo of de Kock and Rohit Sharma. The former gave MI a powerful start with a 6 and were 8/0 at the end of the 1st over. De Kock was facing some close dismissal calls but all of them weren’t caught and he still persisted fluently hitting glorious shots. At the end of 3 overs, MI was cruising at 33/0. But this Nortje over was so productive as MI got 12 off the over and were really making it look easy.

Stoinis,the man who was the gamechanger last match struck in the 1st ball of his spell with a wicket of De Kock and what a breakthrough for DC. Suryakumar Yadav was the new man in and without wasting any time was off to a flyer and brought in the 50 mark for MI with a magnificent 6. At the end of the powerplay, MI was 61/1.

Dubey’s over gave MI 14 crucial runs and Rohit Sharma looked in fine touch. MI was 88/1 and now needed 69 off 60. This didn’t seem difficult and with Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav at the crease, it ideally wouldn’t be a tricky chase. Rohit Sharma brought in a 50. But clearly this partnership was jinxed as Suryakumar Yadav was run out as Rohit Sharma was pacing down the crease but S Yadav sacrificing his wicket and was received with an ovation when he returned back to the pavilion. MI was 2 wickets down.

With 41 needed off the final 6, MI was cruising. Ishan Kishan was really freeing himself playing some delightful shots and really bridged the gap for MI. Nortje once again took a crucial breakthrough who certainly put a foot in the door of MI with the wicket and an outstanding catch by the substitute fielder Lalit.

Pollard started his knock on an auspicious note with a boundary and got another. Brilliant stuff but this didn’t last as his blitzkrieg knock came to an end but there was no stopping this ‘pocket dynamite’ Ishan Kishan who was cleverly timing and placing the ball to the boundary bringing MI closer to their campaign victory. With 3 needed, H Pandya took a single and would Kishan finish with a maximum. Well, it would be a fitting finish to what has been a fabulous season for the man but he took a single and now 1 was needed. The celebrations had already begun for the reigning champions and the chase witnessed an anti climax with H Pandya getting out to Nortje.

Krunal Pandya was the new man in and MI needed one more run to seal the deal and was rightly done by Krunal Pandya with a single and this was a back to back win. They comprehensively defeated DC by 5 wickets retaining their crown and winning yet again in this ‘even’ year. Finally, the IPL came to an end with this not so exciting encounter but what a tournament and a 5th crown for MI.

This was certainly an exciting final considering how all teams had a win and a loss but Velocity missed the bus owing to the heavy loss vs Trailblazers and other modalities that had Trailblazers seal their spot in the midst of their enthralling last match encounter vs Supernovas.

This short but very exciting Women’s T20 Challenge was something where we saw such good performances and matches and overall such good exposure for women’s cricket facilitated by BCCI that the need for a Women’s IPL was ringing even more. Today’s toss witnessed Supernovas winning the toss and deciding to bowl first.

Smriti Mandhana and Deandra Dottin were in to open for the Trailblazers. Hitting some cracking boundaries, they were certainly lighting up this final with those well timed shots. At the end of the powerplay, they were comfortably placed at 45/0.

But Supernovas were suddenly bowling in the right line and lenghts after the powerplay and really putting pressure, restricting the Trailblazers from scoring.

But Poonam Yadav got the first breakthrough for Supernovas getting Dottin out for a lackluster 20 off 32 who had a very indifferent outing with the bat today. But nothing was stopping Mandhana who was striking it so well and brought in her 50 in style.

Richa Ghosh was partnering her well and a sudden setback hit Trailblazers when their set batter Mandhana was dismissed for 68. This was a major breakthrough and Shashikala Siriwardene got this. But what followed was a complete collapse for Trailblazers as Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh getting dismissed lowly. Radha Yadav got these wickets in the 17 over.

Radha Yadav got 3 more in the final over with Goswami, Deol and Ecclestone falling prey to her spin and she picked a fifer. The over also witnessed a run out and boom, it was all over for Trailblazers who folded for 118/8. Radha Yadav became the first to pick a fifer in this tournament and Mandhana for her brilliant knock also cemented the highest score in this tournament.

An interesting run chase was on cards and with Priya Punia being dropped, we’d have Jemimah Rodrigues opening the innings with Athapaththu.

Supernovas didn’t have a dream start as they lost Athapaththu, their consistent batter for 6 and in a crucial run chase and their highest run getter getting out, this was not what they were hoping for. Ecclestone got this brilliant LBW and an excellent use of the DRS much to the dismay of Supernovas.

The chase would be tricky but considering there wasn’t a lot on the scoreboard, Supernovas still needed 101 off 96.

With both the batters taking a little more time to settle in, at the end of the powerplay Supernovas was 28/1. Taniya Bhatia did look good in the former part of her innings but was dismissed by Deepti Sharma for 14. Finally the skipper was in her joining Jemimah and a steady partnership was the need of the hour.

Owing to a brilliant catch by Chantham dismissing Jemimah off Deepti Sharma, she once again showcased her unbelievable fielding skills and Supernovas had quite a bit to reflect on in this strategic timeout as their top order was blown off with Ecclestone and Sharma picking 1 and 2 wickets respectively.

The skipper Kaur and Siriwardene were stiching a good partnership and now the equation was 49 off 36 needed. Salma Khatun broke this partnership getting the wicket of Siriwardene. Now requiring 44 off 30, a strategic timeout was called for and with Anuja Patil joining the skipper, they could re asses some plans and strategize better to tackle this tricky chase.

Kaur was clearly struggling with a hamstring and one can remember how she scored the 1st T20 century one year back on the same day, today obviously the situation was different but she was battling it out. Trailblazers was doing a fabulous job with their bowling.

The ball was simply not coming on to the bat and with each dot, the pressure was mounting on Supernovas. The penultimate over saw a deflated Anuja Patil get run out albeit a good piece of fielding effort by Salma Khatun.

With Kaur who wanted to attack but unable to connect, the wickets flurry continued as she was dismissed for 30 and Trailblazers smacked a final nail in the coffin and with 6 wickets down, it was done and dusted for Supernovas. Khatun got her 3rd of the night getting Vastrakar’s wicket and the wickets were falling like a pack of cards.

This magical spell by Salma Khatun ensured that Supernovas were in a state of no comeback absolutely as with 24 needed off the final over. But Ecclestone bowled a very economical last over and finally this Women’s T20 Challenge would see a new winner with Trailblazers winning the trophy for the first time ending with an almost close run out and an 18 runs victory. What a win for Trailblazers and superb night of cricket.

This match was of equal significance to both the teams considering their finals qualification depended completely on this and there was no other way to make it. Before the match, there was news of DC having opted for the change where the young colt Prithvi Shaw was dropped with them trying a RR’sque style getting in Stoinis to open for them with their consistent run getter, Dhawan.

SRH coming off the big win from the RCB game opted for an unchanged playing 11. DC won the toss and decided to bowl first as it would give them the free hand, more freedom to express themselves and not feel restricted.

DC was off to a delightful start with Stoinis and Dhawan keeping the runs registry ticking with boundaries. The 3rd over by Holder yielded quite a bit for DC which got 18 off it. And at the beginning of the 5th over, a 50 runs partnership was cemented. The bliss continued for DC as at the end of the powerplay, they were cruising at 65/1.

But DC were handed a jolt when Stoinis was dismissed for a well made 38 by Rashid Khan who gave him an animated send off and an earful. But at the end of 10 overs, DC was 102/1. They could certainly make a big one and ensure that they sail comfortably.

Dhawan brought in another well crafted 50, his fastest and a brilliant one but the skipper Iyer on the other hand was still unable to find his groove and was finally dismissed attempting to get it over Pandey but landed safely in his pair of hands. DC was now 2 wickets down. But Dhawan and Hetmyer looked in final flow hitting some very good boundaries and registered a crucial 50 runs partnership.

But this came to an end when Dhawan attempted a reverse sweep and what was clearly not out and would miss the stumps was given out by the umpire. Dhawan also had a misjudgment and walked even before the umpire raised his finger. This was an unfortunate and forgettable way to get out, nevertheless a good knock.

It was a brilliant last over by Natarajan who consistently bowled good length balls and was in control. But a cameo by Hetmyer with a 42 ensured DC got to 189 and an uphill chase for SRH on cards.

SRH was now in to bat and sent in Warner and Priyam Garg in to open. Off to a disastrous start, Rabada dismissed Warner for 2.

Pandey was the new man in and was fluently striking the ball. But what happened wasn’t expected as Stoinis, the new man in the attack struck with two blows and dismissed Pandey for 21 and Garg for 17. Exceptional spell and comeback. At the end of 7 overs, 52/3.

Williamson and Holder were stroking a good partnership and at the end of 10 overs, SRH was 75/3. But the 11th over saw Axar Patel striking to get the wicket of Holder for a lackluster 11. But Williamson was giving hope as with a 6 brought up the 100 run mark for SRH. Soon enough he brought up his 50 but with 83 still needed off 39, the pressure was only building.

Williamson was joined by Abdul Samad who was contributing really well with some much needed boundaries and hit a 50 runs partnership in just 27 balls. DC was exhibiting some good fielding as well.

Williamson was finally dismissed for an unbelievable and impressive 67 by Stoinis and this was such an important wicket for him and SRH was now reeling at 5 wickets down. With Rashid Khan hitting some unexpected boundaries and the gloom of the SRH camp started changing for the better. Now Samad was also hitting some big ones but his blinder of a knock came to an abrupt end with Rabada getting the wicket caught to perfection by sub fielder Keemo Paul.

One more in the over was when he dismissed Rashid. Goswami was the 3rd scalp in the over for Rabada attempting to hit a big one and this was his 2nd innings without making any difference to the scorecard. Rabada yet again ended with a glorious 4 wickets.

With now 22 needed off the final over and 8 wickets down, this seemed way out of hand and Nortje was bowling. There was a close run out call but Nortje missed it but the rest of the over was uneventful as DC sealed the deal by 18 runs. DC was outstanding and this was a well deserved win. Now, on to the top teams MI and DC facing off in the final. Wow.

This was must win game for the Supernovas to sustain in the tournament to make it through to the Finals after the humbling 1st match defeat to Velocity. Trailblazers were riding high on an annihilating victory over the Velocity and were looking to extend their winning run.

Supernovas won the toss and decided to bat first which was a brave decision and perhaps one that would work best as what unfolded was a brilliant batting display for the Supernovas.

Priya Punia and Chamari Athapaththu opened the innings for Supernovas. Punia was taking time to settle in and seemed slower to adapt. Athapaththu on the other hand was at her attacking self starting right from the initial overs. The 4th over of Goswami was certainly a productive one as Athapaththu went after her getting a 4, 6 and 5 runs. At the end of 6 overs, they were cruising at 50/0.

Athapaththu was still looking in fine touch hitting boundaries and was then given some company by Priya Punia finding her feet and getting some morale boosting boundaries. At the end of 10 overs, Supernovas were at a dominant 80/0.

Trailblazers finally drew first blood when Salma Khatun got the wicket of Priya Punia and now it looked like Trailblazers were making a comeback of sorts. But Athapaththu was still in full flow and brought up a well deserved half century. Harmanpreet Kaur came in ahead and was playing the role of the second fiddle.

Athapaththu hit some delightful boundaries and was totally applying herself in the game with some exceptional running between the wickets but was dismissed for a well played 67. The highest score in thr history of this women’s T20 challenge and bolstered Supernovas prospects in the must win match. What was observed was how the run rate started dipping after the 10th over and Trailblazers were fighting back in style. Jemimah Rodrigues also had a disappointing outing as she was dismissed for 1 by a caught and bowled by Goswami and now Supernovas was suddenly in a quandary and needed their skipper to fire.

But even though Kaur hit a 4 and 6, the rest of the batting was in shambles as we got to witness 3 run outs and with skipper getting out for 31, Supernovas ended with 146/6. Jhulan Goswami, Ecclestone with her last over spell, Harleen Deol and Salma Khatun were the pick of the bowlers.

Trailblazers were in to bat with Smriti and Dottin opening the innings and the latter gave a brilliant start with a 4 and 6. At the end 2 overs, they were 16/0. Smriti Mandhana left no stone unturned hitting some cracking boundaries.

Going at a good rate and with a 4, Trailblazers sealed their spot in the finals in style(yes, mid way this match owing to the superior run rate) but still had this match to win. They faced a couple of set backs with Dottin and Ghosh getting dismissed. Shakera Selman got these wickets.

Trailblazers had nothing to lose and a good chase would certainly up their confidence and a win for Supernovas a place in the Finals edging Velocity. The match was evenly poised with Trailblazers at 57/2 at the end of 9 overs.

Deepti Sharma and Smriti Mandhana were taking time but with boundaries were still making this look well within reach for them. But Smriti Mandhana who was dropped twice was not going to get 3 times lucky as Anuja Patil got her wicket for 33 and now they were 3 wickets down.

Could Superonovas force themselves back on the match considering their firepower batting was out. 64 from 45 was still needed. The asking rate was climbing and Deepti Sharma and D Hemalatha had to step up. But Radha Yadav dismissed the latter for 7 and Trailblazers was losing plot when Harleen Deol walked in to bat. She started off with a boundary also ensuring that they got 12 runs along with Sharma in the 16th over and now Trailblazers needed 44 off 24. Pressure situation.

But Harleen Deol getting 11 crucial runs off this Poonam Yadav over was making it seems easy and now the equation was 24 needed 12 balls. Deepti Sharma joined the party with a 4 timed so well off Selma and were finding the gaps with another inside out brought up 4 fours on a trot. With 10 needed off the final over, would Trailblazers play spoilsport on the prospects of Supernovas? Kaur handed the ball to Radha Yadav for this final over.

The over started with a 2, now 8 needed off the final 5. A single and the match was only getting more excited and we got to see some sporadic field changes enforced by the skipper Kaur. Another single and 6 off 3 was the equation. Deol drove the full toss for a 2 and now 4 needed off 2. Attempting to get a 4, Deol’s stunning cameo came to an end when she was dismissed for 27 off 15 and Radha Yadav was celebrating.

Now 4 runs needed off the last ball. Sophie Ecclestone, the known striker was here but can she get a boundary and extend their winning run and spoil Supernovas’ chances. What a nail biter! And Radha Yadav successfully defended this total as Supernovas sealed the deal by 2 runs as Ecclestone couldn’t get that boundary and we’d now have the same teams playing each other again in the finals they ending any chances and edged out Velocity. Credits to Deepti Sharma for her unbeaten 43 and Harleen off her 27 off 15.

RCB was coming of a 4 losses in a row in the latter stages of their campaign and surprisingly made it to the playoffs. RCB fans were certainly elated at the prospects of their team making it this far and maybe even posing as strong contenders to make it to the finals.

SRH winning their match vs MI breaking the door open to the playoffs and snatching position 3 from RCB was commendable. This turnaround was possible mainly because of some breathtaking innings from Saha and Holder consistently since the duo returned. But an injury ruled him Saha for today’s match but SRH still had a strong playing 11 today and RCB had to apply themselves to pose a strong front. RCB enforced changes getting in Finch, Saini and Zampa. Clinical changes but would they fire was an imperative question. SRH won the toss and decided to field first.

RCB sprung a surprise sending in skipper Kohli and Padikkal to open. Maybe the intent behind this was so Finch who’s had a dismal IPL would come in at 3 and have time to settle in. But this perhaps wasn’t the best time to try that out as this was a crucial encounter and with so much riding on it for RCB. The experiment failed as Kohli was dismissed for 6. He knicked a Holder’s delivery what clearly was a lapse in judgement and had to walk back prematurely in this RCB’s innings. Virat Kohli’s lackluster performances in very important matches where he chokes continued much to the disappointment to RCB fans.

Holder who was back in the attack for the 3rd over got the big wicket of Padikkal for 1 which was possible owing to a brilliant catch jumping by Priyam Garg. This was a beautiful starting spell for Holder. At the end of the powerplay, RCB was 2 wickets down with 32 runs on the board.

Finch looked like he was on a quest to make his stay count at the crease but hardly showed any intent as he was out for 32 and this was a score of 30 he crossed after 5 consecutive innings that didn’t yield anything. Nadeem got this breakthrough and with another brilliant throw by Rashid directly to the stumps, Moeen Ali’s disappointing season was further magnified with this run out.

Dube joined AB at the crease but he too seemed listless and was dismissed for 8. This was the 3rd wicket for Holder in the night and although one had seen his prowess in the longest format of the game where his figures were outstanding, this stint with SRH also turned out to be so good with the wickets.

RCB was 5 down. AB got a 50 in style with a 4 and RCB was 104/5 at the end of 16 overs. Losing the wicket of Sundar was another topping on the cake for SRH in their strategy to restrict RCB. T Natarajan got the wicket and the ‘yorker king’ dismissed AB with a magnificent yorker comparable to the Mustafizur delivery to dismiss Russell previous season. RCB’s batting mainstay was gone and now with the tail even getting 130 seemed impossible.

At this point even the RCB tail with Siraj and Saini getting boundaries in unorthodox way providing some respite and runs for RCB. With knocks of 10 by Siraj and 9 by Saini, RCB made 131/7. This ideally wouldn’t be a tough chase for SRH. RCB cemented yet another record with this being one of the lowest totals in the history of playoffs. Way to go with the records RCB consistently strives for.

SRH was in to bat and Goswami and Warner were the men at the crease. Siraj got a crucial breakthrough for RCB dismissing Goswami for 0 and it was a good one. RCB was 2/1 at the end of the 1st over. Manish Pandey was in and with Warner was stiching a partnership but this came to an end with a controversial dismissal of Warner where the ball clipped his glove maybe slightly in comparison to the groin area which had a greater impact that may have been misconstrued but this was an important wicket. At the end of the powerplay, SRH was 47/1.

SRH faced another jolt when Pandey was dismissed by Zampa. SRH was 3 wickets down. One was reminded ot the glorious 6 wickets he had taken vs SRH whilst playing for RPS and an outing like that would certainly work wonders for RCB today.

Priyam Garg and Williamson were playing with precision and poise but were consuming a lot of deliveries and the pressure was getting to them. Chahal got the wicket ot Garg and RCB was staging a comeback.

Williamson was joined by Holder now. And the pressure was boiling massively on SRH as they still needed 60 off 42 and RCB was consistently sending in spinners making life difficult for SRH. Chahal was having a good over but Williamson’s maximum brought the equation to 35 off 24.

With some clinical boundaries still coming of the bat for Williamson, the last 3 overs demanded 28. It still seemed well within SRH’s reach. DDP saved a crucial 5 runs for the team that could’ve translated to a 6 but couldn’t take the boundary catch. It was a terrific effort. The commentators were reflecting on how Holder shouldn’t be given the overpitched balls but Saini was doing that. Kane Williamson hit a good boundary at the 3rd man position edging one.

This 19th over by Siraj was a good one for SRH who got boundaries and some good running was witnessed. But requiring 9 off the final over would this be a close one and a super over on cards was a pertinent question. Williamson was looking in good touch with some unorthodox shots and Holder was playing a good supporting role.

Williamson got a well deserved 50 and held the innings together in spite of the wickets around him falling. Swing and a miss and pressure was mounting on SRH. Saini was really bowling out of his skin. RCB needed more of those dots.

But Holder smacked a delightful 4 and Finch was no where close to even stopping it. 4 needed off the final 3. Holder stamping his authority hit another cracking 4 and sealed the deal for SRH setting them up for a mouthwatering clash vs Delhi Capitals. What a match and disappointing outing for RCB.

This was a crucial encounter as the winner would make in roads into the finals directly, while the loser still does get a chance to face off against the winner of the eliminator but a lot was still riding on both the teams. DC opted for an unchanged playing 11 and MI on the other hand was strengthened by the return of in the form trio Trent Boult, Hardik Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah. DC won the toss and decided to bowl first.

MI had Quinton de Kock and Rohit Sharma to open. Off to a good start with de Kock getting 3 boundaries off Sams’ over, they received a jolt losing their skipper Rohit Sharma for a duck courtesy a good ball bowled by Ravi Ashwin.

De Kock was now joined by Suryakumar Yadav at the crease. The duo has been consistent for MI throughout and today was no different. Hitting some breathtaking boundaries, they ensured that MI was cruising. At the end of the powerplay, MI was 63/1.

MI hit a roadblock when De Kock was dismissed for 40. He was attempting to step down and dispatch it but he miscued it and Ashwin got this crucial breakthrough.

Ishan Kishan now joined Suryakumar Yadav and batted with poise and precision. At the end of 10 overs, MI was 93/2.

Suryakumar Yadav hit a boundary to ring in a delightful half century but was dismissed for 51 off 38. Another setback was when they lost Pollard for 0. This was a quick set of wickets that MI lost.

Ishan Kishan was now joined by Krunal Pandya at the crease and a flurry of boundaries was observed. But K Pandya’s stay was shortlived as he was out for 13.

Ishan Kishan with a splendid 55 off 30 and Hardik Pandya with a sublime 37 off 14 drove MI to a comfortable 200. The last ball saw a splendid 6 bringing up this big score. We got to see some exceptional batting, and they way they batted positively throughout putting pressure on Nortje and Rabada was noteworthy. Good running and rotation of strike was other important facets. Ashwin with his 3 scalps was the pick of the bowlers and with a 200 to chase, DC had a task cut out and needed their Indian batting firepower to fire and perform well.

DC was off to the worst possible start losing Prithvi Shaw on the very first ball of the innings and Rahane getting dismissed LBW. Woah, this was a brilliant wicket maiden for Boult.

Bumrah was in the attack and a screamer of a yorker dismissing Dhawan for a 0. DC hadn’t even opened their account and were 3 down. This was mindblowing bowling from MI. They got a 4 and opened their account and a couple of singles ensured they had 6 on board.

Shreyas Iyer’s 3 boundaries vigil ended when Bumrah dismissed him for 12 at that length ball that clearly wasn’t meant to be driven. This was most certainly not the kind of start that DC was looking at. At the end of 7 overs, DC was 36/4 with Pant and Stoinis at the crease when a strategic timeout was called for.

Krunal Pandya struck in the very next over after this timeout and got Pant for a dismal 3. DC was now 5 wickets down. Stoinis was the lone warrior for DC batting well and hitting some big shits. He brought in a 50 off 36 balls and was the only bright spot for DC today.

Axar Patel joined him at the crease and they were stringing a formidable partnership. Requiring 104 off 36, it was close to impossible to chase this down. Bumrah was back in the attack with a bang dismissing Stoinis for a well played 65. Bumrah struck again dismissing Sams and now the tail was exposed for DC.

It’s funny when you see two purple cap contenders facing off each other with one batting and the other tormenting your side to realize how badly the batting side messed up and Bumrah’s 2 wicket maiden over ended with two delightful dots to Rabada.

Axar Patel’s knock of 42 was a good one and an easy catch made complicated by Chahar who was almost going to drop it did provide some comedic relief and Rabada with some glorious boundaries making a 15 was noteworthy but MI cemented a dominant victory of 57 runs against DC and qualified for the finals.

Velocity was riding on a big win last night vs Supernovas and with Luus playing a gem of a knock and some good bowling from their side restricting the Supernovas, this encounter vs Trailblazers was one to watch out for.

The dynamic duo of Shefali Varma and Dani Wyatt walked in to bat. Verma started with a flourish and a got a 4 and a 6 but her stay came to an end when she was dismissed by Jhulan Goswami for a dismal 13. This was yet another instance of her being unable to capitalize on a good start. The next over saw Mithali Raj getting dismissed for 1 which was this crucial wicket for Trailblazers taken by Ecclestone.

Velocity was in the midst of a full blown collapse losing Veda Krishnamurthy in quick succession and with Luus and Wyatt also getting dismissed by Goswami and Gayakwad, this was turning out to be a nightmare for Velocity. Ecclestone didn’t stop there as she even got the wicket of Sushma Verma. This ensured that almost the major chunk of Velocity’s batting was depleted.

Velocity didn’t even look half of what they played like yesterday and this was a dismal outing. Shikha Pandey and Kasperek with 10 and 11 provided some runs and a fightback. But once Pandey was dismissed, the rest of the tail also folded and couldn’t match the might of the Trailblazers bowling and Kasperek remained not out at 11. Velocity ended 47 all out. This ideally wouldn’t be very difficult for Trailblazers to chase and Velocity had a lot to reflect on.

Ecclestone with her 4 scalps, complemented well by Goswami and Gayakwad who picked 2 wickets were clinical in rendering the dangerous Velocity batting spineless.

Trailblazers was in to bat and considering the total was not a lot to chase, could bat at ease. Smriti Mandhana and Deandra Dottin were in to bat. Velocity didn’t leave any stone unturned as Kasperek struck dismissing her for 6. Richa Ghosh was now in and a simple partnership with Dottin would seal the deal.

Dottin with a calm and collected knock of 29 who was well supported by Richa Ghosh who chipped in with 13 where we witnessed some good boundaries and a six to seal the deal ensuring Trailblazers won this match comfortably without much difficulty. Now the match with Supernovas and Trailblazers would be a crucial one.

Finally, the Women’s T20 Challenge was here. As an ardent follower of women’s cricket this was the moment I had been waiting for and not seeing the women in action since March was awful and this was it. 3 teams, 4 matches spread across 5 days and finally BCCI was taking baby steps in the right direction with the promotion of women’s cricket. With a stage like Dubai and the broadcasters and advertisers, the stage was set.

Today’s encounter had Supernovas led by Harmanpreet Kaur and Mithali Raj leading the Velocity unit. The teams looked really good on paper. Velocity won the toss and decided to bowl first. Priya Punia and C Athapaththu opened for Supernovas. Off to a decent start, they were stitching a partnership when Punia was dismissed superlatively for 11. Leigh Kasparek got this wicket and it was a crucial breakthrough as Velocity was 30/1 at the 5.2 overs stage.

Jemimah Rodrigues was off to a good start with a boundary but could not convert her stay at the crease as he was out for 7. Ekta Bisht got this wicker and was a big wicket for Velocity. They really were exerting their dominance in this match. This set the stage for the skipper of Supernovas, Harmanpreet Kaur to make inroads on to the middle.

She started off with a boundary and looked in sublime form with many more and was cementing a crucial partnership with Athapaththu and were cruising. Jahanara Alam got this critical wicket of Athapaththu who was dismissed after a well crafted 44.

But wickets began to tumble for Supernovas as the well set Kaur was dismissed for 31. Then started a steady collapse for Supernovas who simply couldn’t match the might or even sustain to the Velocity bowling as not a single respectable double figures score besides Siriwardene with 18 came from the latter batters and the tail. The Supernovas ended with 126/8 which required effort to defend.

Ekta Bisht with 3 wickets was complemented really well by Alam and Kasperek with 2 wickets in restricting Supernovas. This shouldn’t be a challenging chase for Velocity considering they’re batting is blessed with some exceptional batters like Verma, Wyatt and Mithali to name a few. Interesting run chase was on cards.

Velocity was not off to a good start as they lost their star batter Wyatt who was dismissed without opening her account for 0 off 5 and the scorecard read 0/1. Brilliant wicket maiden over. Ayabonga Khaka was making her presence known. Mithali Raj was the new batter in. A composed and clear partnership with Shefali Verma was the need of the hour.

Shefali Verma didn’t disappoint as she finally opened the account for Velocity with a 4. She was in the pursuit of more boundaries and was striking it well till she was dismissed by Khaka for 17. Velocity was now 2 wickets down with their pinch hitter back in the pavilion. Veda Krishnamurthy was in. Stringing a partnership, at the end of 6 over Velocity was 26/2.

Siriwardene was in the attack and got the big wicket of the under pressure Mithali Raj who was taking time to settle in for a docile 7 off 19 and Velocity was 3 wickets down and the scorecard read 38/3 at 8.3 overs when a strategic timeout was called for.

Veda Krishnamurthy looked in fine touch hitting timely boundaries. At the end of 12 overs, Velocity was 59/3 and needed another 68 off 48. But Radha Yadav got the big wicket of Veda who wasn’t able to connect and Velocity’s run chase was falling apart. At the end of 15 overs, Velocity was 77/4 requiring 50 from the last 30 and this tricky surface was making this chase tougher and Sushma Verma looked solid but had to accelerate.

Sushma Verma looked in full resolve as she over long on got a massive six of Poonam Yadav. Luus also sprung into action with another 6 and 13 came off 3 balls and the equation was slowly tilting in Velocity’s favour and a few more boundaries would be helpful and Verma was delivering. Now the equation was 25 needed off 18 and Velocity still had it in them to seal the match.

Sushma Verma and Luus were in a good partnership and we witnessed some good running and boundaries, but Verma was dismissed for 34. This wicket might have potentially costed them the match but with 9 needed of the final over, this was going to be a close encounter.

Shikha Pandey took a single and Luus got a boundary and Velocity needed 4 off 4. A run a ball equation would ideally seal the deal and with the rotation of strike that was what was happening. 2 off 2 needed. A super over on cards? But with Luus edging a boundary Velocity beat Supernovas by 5 wickets courtesy a brilliant 37 off 21 by Sune Luus. What a night of competitive cricket and a start to this Jio Women’s T20 Challenge!