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IPL take 2 - some initial thoughts

Not at the half-way stage but there's been enough going on at the second edition of the IPL to warrant a post. The quality of cricket has been better than the last time around so far, mainly because bowlers have had more of a chance to show their skills. The success of the spinners especially is a pleasant surprise though they will probably find conditions less responsive in England come the World T20.

So far, Deccan, Delhi and Mumbai look the best bets to carry on and lift the trophy but its early days yet and things can change rapidly. In fact, that is the main appeal of T20 for me, the fact that momentum can shift so suddenly and how players deal with it is the key to winning matches. The other very interesting phenomenon has been how the 30+ batsmen seem hell-bent on proving that its not just a young man's game. A quick look at the top batting/bowling stats so far tells an interesting story. None of the top five scorers are below 34 and only three of the top 10 are below 30 (Bopara, deVilliers and Rohit Sharma). The bowling stats are almost the exact opposite, with none of the top five wicket-takers being above 30 and only four of the top 10 above 30 (Vettori barely so).  Again, I'm sure things will change on both tables but experience has an immense role to play in this format, especially in the batting.

Will try and pull together some interesting stats at the end of the tournament. Have said that before but this time hopefully, I'll actually produce something worthwhile! :-)

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