IPL 2024 Qualifier 2: Trent Boult strikes early in crucial clash against SRH

The IPL Qualifier 2 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) is underway. Rajasthan Royals won the toss and elected to bowl first. The choice to field was strategic, considering the pitch conditions and the dew factor that could come into play in the second innings.

First Over Highlights

Abhishek showcased his intent with a mighty pull over deep midwicket for a six. He followed it up with a boundary down the ground, adding valuable runs to the scoreboard. But just as he seemed to settle, he got a top edge trying to swipe across the line and was caught at cover.

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Trent Boult’s First Breakthrough

In his element, Trent Boult struck early, removing Abhishek Sharma for 12 runs. The wicket, caught by Tom Kohler-Cadmore at backward point, was a significant early blow to SRH. Abhishek’s quick cameo included one four and one six.

Rahul Tripathi’s Explosive Batting

R Ashwin came into the attack and was met with aggressive batting from Rahul Tripathi. Tripathi punished Ashwin with consecutive boundaries and a massive six towards the fine leg fence, adding 16 runs off the over. SRH’s score read 45/1 after four overs.

Trent Boult Strikes Again

Just when SRH seemed to gain control, Trent Boult struck once more. He dismissed Rahul Tripathi, who Chahal caught at short third man. Tripathi’s 37-run knock was crucial, but Boult’s timely wicket shifted the balance.

Aiden Markram’s Short Stay

Aiden Markram, expected to stabilize the innings, briefly stayed at the crease. In a spectacular bowling display, Boult claimed his third wicket as Chahal caught Markram at short third. Markram managed only 1 run, leaving SRH in a precarious position.

End of the Powerplay

The powerplay ended with SRH at 65/3. It was an eventful phase featuring 8 fours, 3 sixes, and 3 wickets. Trent Boult’s exceptional bowling was the highlight, putting RR in a commanding position.

Trent Boult’s Impact

With his three crucial wickets, Trent Boult now holds the record for the most wickets in the powerplay in IPL 2024, with 12 scalps. His dominance has been a key factor for RR’s success this season.

Most wickets in the powerplay in IPL 2024
12 – Trent Boult*
10 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar
9 – Mitchell Starc
8 – Vaibhav Arora
8 – Khaleel Ahmed

Most Wickets in the first over of an IPL edition
8 – Trent Boult in 2020
7 – Trent Boult in 2024*
7 – Trent Boult in 2023
6 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar in 2016
6 – Trent Boult in 2022
6 – Mohammad Siraj in 2023

Most wickets in the Powerplay in the IPL
71 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar
62 – Trent Boult*
59 – Sandeep Sharma
58 – Deepak Chahar
58 – Umesh Yadav
57 – Ishant Sharma

Bowlers with 100-plus T20 wickets in the Powerplay
128 – David Willey
118 – Bhuvneshwar Kumar
101 – Trent Boult