Former Indian women’s cricket team captain, Mithali Raj, shared her thoughts on the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) in a recent interview. When asked about Virat Kohli’s strike rate in the middle overs, Mithali noted that every player is different, and Kohli is more of a timer who relies on fours and running between the wickets rather than power-hitting. She praised his improvement in facing fast bowlers this season but acknowledged his struggle against spinners due to the need for lighter footwork.
Regarding the ideal approach to batting in the middle overs of a T20, Mithali stated that it depends on the strength of the batting lineup. A strong middle order can go all out even after the first six overs, while inconsistent batters coming in later should try and play till the end to maximize the start. She emphasized the importance of striking a balance between strike rate and average in T20Is and tailoring the batting approach according to the situation.
Mithali also discussed the role of bowlers in T20Is, highlighting the importance of taking wickets and creating pressure even if they are not picking wickets. She also weighed in on the Impact Player rule, acknowledging that it reduces the role of an all-rounder to a certain extent but can be beneficial if used wisely by the team.
When asked about young talents that have impressed her in this IPL season, Mithali praised Yashasvi Jaiswal from Rajasthan Royals for his impressive performances and ability to overshadow international star Jos Buttler in the first six overs. Overall, Mithali emphasized the importance of adapting to the situation and using the strengths of each player to achieve success in T20 cricket.
In conclusion, Mithali Raj shared her insights on various aspects of T20 cricket, including strike rate, middle-over batting, the importance of form and situational awareness, and the impact of the new rules, such as the Impact Player. Her wealth of experience and understanding of the game make her a valuable voice in the cricketing world, and her observations offer a unique perspective on the intricacies of this fast-paced format.
Source: Hindustan Times
Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and having played cricket professionally for my state team, I gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the world of sports. With an eye for detail and passion for sports, I’m hoping to make a lasting impact in the sports industry.