South Africa needed just 30 runs off 30 deliveries with six wickets in hand to clinch the 2024 T20 World Cup. It seemed like an almost certain victory, leaving Rohit Sharma and his men appearing down and out. However, Jasprit Bumrah had other plans. Stepping up to the challenge, Bumrah bowled a crucial 16th over, conceding only four runs, setting the stage for what was to come.

The momentum shifted further when Hardik Pandya took charge in the 17th over. Matching Bumrah’s economy, he gave away just four runs and delivered the game-changing wicket of Heinrich Klaasen, who had been South Africa’s hope with a blistering 27-ball 52. Klaasen’s dismissal was a turning point, jolting South Africa and reigniting India’s chances.

Bumrah returned for the 18th over and struck again, this time dismissing Marco Jansen, conceding a mere two runs in the process. With the pressure now firmly on South Africa, Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya closed out the game in style, sealing a dramatic victory for India. The death overs saw a remarkable turnaround, orchestrated by Bumrah’s brilliance and the disciplined bowling of his teammates, securing a memorable win and showcasing why Jasprit Bumrah remains one of the most formidable bowlers in the game.

See Also: T20 WC 2024: Match Analysis: How did Afghanistan’s nightmare unfold in just 60 minutes?

In-depth Analysis of Jasprit Bumrah’s Figures in T20 World Cup 2024

Jasprit Bumrah’s stellar performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup was instrumental in India’s triumph. In the powerplay, Bumrah set the tone for India’s bowling attack, taking 5 wickets at an impressive economy rate of just 4.1. His ability to deliver dot balls consistently, with a dots percentage of 65.5%, put immense pressure on the opposition right from the start, often leading to early breakthroughs that shifted the momentum in India’s favor.

During the middle overs, Bumrah continued to dominate, claiming another 5 wickets with an economy rate of 4.7. His dots percentage of 58.3% during this phase further highlighted his skill in maintaining tight lines and lengths, stifling the batsmen’s scoring opportunities. Bumrah’s ability to adapt his strategies mid-innings kept the opposition guessing and prevented any significant partnerships from developing.

In the death overs, Bumrah’s prowess was unmatched. He took 5 crucial wickets at an extraordinary economy rate of just 3.7, with a dots percentage of 58.7%. His precision and execution under pressure were pivotal in closing out games for India, often turning the tide in their favor during the final moments. Bumrah’s consistent brilliance across all phases of the game earned him the Player of the Tournament award and underscored his vital role in India’s World Cup victory.

The Men in Blue won by seven runs and lifted their first ICC title since the Champions Trophy in 2013. “Usually, I’m the one who tries to keep my emotions in check and get the job done, but today I don’t have many words. I don’t usually cry after a game, but the emotions are taking over,” said Jasprit Bumrah, who was named Player of the Tournament. Bumrah bowled the crucial 16th over right after Axar Patel had been hit for 24 runs. “I saw the ball was a bit scuffed up and thought it might reverse a bit. I considered which shot would be the most difficult for the batter and was able to execute it,” he explained.

See Also: T20 WC 2024: Player Analysis: How did Rohit Sharma decimate Australia’s bowling attack?

Unlike England, South Africa doesn’t rely heavily on their openers and boasts better batters against spin bowling. The Kensington Oval in Barbados, where India faces South Africa, hasn’t been as spin-friendly as Guyana, which means India might need to dig deeper to create inroads. While the pitch has seen a fair amount of spin, with 43.8% of the overs in eight matches bowled by spinners, the results have been average. Spinners here have an economy rate of 7.3 and an average of 26.4, not as impressive as in some other venues.

Interestingly, right-arm leg spinners have found the most success at Kensington Oval, averaging 18.7 for their 14 wickets. Conversely, left-arm orthodox spinners have struggled, conceding 44.4 runs per wicket. This poses a strategic challenge for India, which has two such spinners in Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. To counter this, India might need to balance their attack by utilizing Hardik Pandya’s overs to mitigate the less effective left-arm spin.

South Africa, likely to field only one spinner, Keshav Maharaj, who is also a left-arm orthodox bowler, may not face the same dilemma. This contrast in spin strategies underscores the nuanced challenge India faces at the Kensington Oval, requiring a tactical approach to exploit South Africa’s batting in the powerplay and beyond.

See Also: T20 WC 2024: Match Analysis: How did Afghanistan’s nightmare unfold in just 60 minutes?

Analysis of South Africa’s Batting Powerplay Figures

Quinton de Kock has been a powerhouse in the powerplay this World Cup, batting at an impressive strike rate of 158.4. No other Protea batter has managed a strike rate over 100 in the same phase. After a slow start, the left-hander returned to form with decisive knocks of 74 off 40 balls against the USA and 65 off 38 balls against England. However, de Kock has shown a vulnerability against left-arm pace in the powerplay. Since 2022 in T20Is, he has been dismissed seven times at an average of just 16.1 runs, with five of those dismissals coming from deliveries moving away from him and two from balls coming into him.

His struggles against full-length swinging deliveries are notable. Arshdeep Singh has capitalized on this weakness, dismissing de Kock thrice in T20s for only 31 runs. Twice, Arshdeep has removed de Kock with deliveries swinging away. Yet, the conditions in the West Indies during this World Cup have not favored swing bowlers, with minimal lateral movement observed in day matches. Arshdeep’s economy rate of 8.6 in the Caribbean leg, compared to a more economical 6.3 in the USA, supports this observation.

Thus, while the conditions in Barbados might favor de Kock, he still needs to be cautious during Arshdeep’s first two overs. If Arshdeep can exploit the little movement available, he might once again trouble the South African opener and give India a crucial edge in the powerplay.

A bonafide match-winner in the format, David Miller is the second-highest run-scorer for South Africa in this competition. On paper, Hardik Pandya has dismissed him the most times among Indian bowlers in T20 cricket, with four dismissals. However, there’s no clear pattern to these dismissals, except that Hardik has bowled to Miller frequently.

In contrast, there is a clear pattern in Miller’s struggles against left-arm wrist spinners. Since 2023, Miller averages a mere 5.7 against left-arm wrist spinners in T20s, with a shockingly low strike rate of 68. His attacking shots succeed only 44% of the time, the lowest against any bowling type, and his dismissals often come from full and good-length deliveries. This indicates that Miller’s power diminishes significantly against left-arm leg spin, suggesting he struggles to pick these spinners off the hand. Kuldeep Yadav, in particular, has dismissed Miller twice for just 44 runs.

Given that Miller bats in the middle order and Kuldeep typically bowls after the powerplay, their face-off seems inevitable. This match-up could be a decisive factor in the contest, with Kuldeep’s left-arm leg spin posing a significant challenge to Miller’s otherwise formidable batting prowess.

See Also: T20 WC 2024: Player Analysis: How did Rohit Sharma decimate Australia’s bowling attack?

What a remarkable turnaround it has been for Bangalore in the 2024 Women’s T20 League! After facing disappointment as favorites in the inaugural edition, they showcased sheer resilience and determination to clinch the title this year. Their exceptional performance in the final few games truly showcased their mettle and justified their status as champions.

However, amidst the celebration for Bangalore, it’s important to acknowledge the commendable effort put forth by Delhi throughout the campaign. Despite their consistent brilliance, they couldn’t withstand the pressure in the crucial encounter, ending their campaign as runners-up.

See Also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Delhi Capitals

Breaking Down Delhi Capitals Women’s Finals Loss

In the Women’s T20 League final, Smriti Mandhana’s side faced the challenge of bowling first after losing the toss. Initially, they struggled to make breakthroughs, with Renuka Singh failing to make an impact yet again. However, the momentum shifted when Sophie Molineux entered the attack and swiftly dismissed Shafali Verma. Molineux’s exceptional spell continued as she claimed two more wickets in the same over, putting Bangalore in a commanding position.

With the opposition reeling, Bangalore’s spinners capitalized on the pressure, with Shreyanka Patil leading the charge with a four-wicket haul. Their disciplined bowling effort restricted the opponents to a modest total, setting up a manageable chase for Bangalore.

Needing 114 runs to clinch the trophy, Bangalore’s opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Sophie Devine adopted a cautious approach initially. However, Devine soon found her rhythm and began to score boundaries regularly, easing the pressure off her team. Despite Devine’s dismissal, Ellyse Perry stepped up to the occasion, playing a crucial innings to keep the momentum going.

Mandhana, who had been leading from the front throughout the tournament, contributed with a valuable knock before getting out. Perry, unfazed by the loss of her partner, anchored the innings brilliantly, forming a vital partnership with the dynamic Richa Ghosh. Together, they guided Bangalore to a comfortable victory, securing the ultimate prize for their team.

The triumph marked a remarkable turnaround for Bangalore, who had faced setbacks earlier in the tournament but showed resilience and determination to emerge victorious in the final stages. Mandhana’s leadership, coupled with the stellar performances of players like Molineux, Perry, and Ghosh, played a pivotal role in their success.

Despite the initial challenges, Bangalore remained focused on their goal and executed their plans effectively to clinch the title. The victory would serve as a testament to their character and ability to rise to the occasion under pressure, solidifying their status as worthy champions of the Women’s T20 League.

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has stirred controversy by accusing skipper Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid of meddling with the World Cup 2023 final pitch. His allegations have raised questions about the integrity of pitch preparation and its influence on match outcomes.

Mohammad Kaif’s Allegations

Kaif, who was present at the Narendra Modi Stadium during the final, claimed to have witnessed changes in the pitch over three days. He asserted that the Indian team management, including Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, intervened to manipulate the pitch conditions to favor slow bowling.

See Also: Rohit wants Kohli, report claims amidst T20 World Cup squad speculations

Kaif’s Statements and Criticism

In an interview with The Lallantop, Kaif expressed disappointment over the pitch manipulation tactics employed by the Indian team management. He criticized the decision to alter the pitch excessively, attributing it to India’s defeat in the final.

Kaif said, “Emotions the. 2003 mein inse (Australia) hum haare the. Main waha 3 din tha. Rohit Sharma shaam ko aaye, Dravid dono shaam ko aaye. Pitch pe gaye, ghume kaisi pitch hai. Ye 3 din lagatar hua hai aur maine pitch ka rang badalte hue dekha hai. Cummins hai Starc hai, inke pass tezz gendbaazi hai, toh inko naa slow pitch do aur waha galti hui. 100%. Chahe log kitna bhi bole ki curator apna kaam karta hai, hum kuch nahi bolte, bakwaas hai. (Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma arrived in the evening to examine the field. They stood behind the pitch every hour for three days, and I witnessed the pitch turn a different color. Give them slow pitches because they have fast bowlers like Starc and Cummins. And that’s where they went wrong. People saying that the curator makes the pitch and no one has a say is just rubbish. This is the truth, even if people don’t want to believe it).

Host Country’s Influence on Pitch Preparation

Kaif acknowledged the host country’s prerogative to dictate pitch conditions but cautioned against excessive interference. While conceding that such practices are commonplace in cricket, Kaif emphasized balance and fair play in pitch preparation.

Kaif said, “You have to express just two sentences when you are moving across the field. Please don’t add water; just cut down on the grass. That is reality. And it should to be carried out. You’re at home playing. And we overindulged in it.”

Impact on the World Cup Final

The pitch alterations purportedly backfired on India as Australia emerged victorious in the final, chasing down a target of 240 runs. Despite early success, the Indian bowlers struggled to contain Travis Head, who played a pivotal role in Australia’s triumph.

Australia’s Victory and Indian Strategy

Despite India’s efforts to tailor the pitch to their advantage, Australia’s bowlers, particularly Pat Cummins, demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Cummins’ decision to bowl first in a final, despite conventional wisdom favoring batting first, proved instrumental in securing Australia’s victory.

In a thrilling encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the Delhi Capitals stamped their authority on the Women’s Premier League by securing a direct berth in the final. Led by the explosive batting of Shafali Verma, who lit up the field with a scintillating 71 runs off just 37 deliveries. However, it wasn’t just the batting that shone for Delhi. Their bowlers put up a disciplined performance, restricting the Gujarat Giants to a modest total of 126 for nine. With the Giants failing to capitalize on their innings, the Capitals capitalized on the opportunity and chased down the target comfortably. 

South African stalwart Marizanne Kapp showcased her expertise on the field, delivering an impressive bowling performance for her team. With figures of 2/17 in her allotted four overs, Kapp demonstrated her skill and precision, particularly excelling during the powerplay overs. Additionally, both Shikha Pandey and Minnu Mani contributed significantly, each claiming two wickets to further bolster the team’s bowling effort. 

Now, with a spot in the final confirmed, the Delhi Capitals await the winner of the eliminator match between the Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore. As they gear up for the ultimate showdown, the Capitals will look to carry forward their winning momentum and clinch the coveted WPL title.

See Also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Gujarat Titans

Analyzing Delhi Capitals Women’s Journey to the Finals

Delhi Capitals have demonstrated remarkable bowling performance, especially during the powerplay overs, contributing significantly to their consecutive finals appearances. Their bowlers have excelled, amassing impressive statistics across 8 matches in the tournament. During the powerplay, they have clinched 16 wickets at an impressive average of 20.44, with an economical bowling rate of 6.81 and a commendable strike rate of 18. Additionally, their ability to accumulate 166 dot balls underscores their control and pressure-building during crucial phases of the game. 

Following closely, Mumbai Indians also showcased formidable bowling performances, securing 14 wickets in 8 matches, with a competitive average of 23.43, a strike rate of 20.57, and 155 dot balls, further highlighting the intense competition in the league. 

Delhi Capitals continue to showcase their bowling dominance, leading the charts in Bowling death overs performance as well. Their bowlers have been exceptional during the death overs, securing an impressive 28 wickets in 8 matches. What’s even more remarkable is their outstanding average of just 11.75, coupled with an economy rate of 8.29 and a strike rate of 8.50. Additionally, they have bowled 78 dot balls during this crucial phase, emphasizing their ability to apply pressure on the opposition batsmen.

Following closely behind, UP Warriorz have also displayed commendable performance in the death overs. Their bowlers have claimed 22 wickets in 7 matches, boasting an average of 15.59, an economy rate of 9.85, and a strike rate of 9.50. Moreover, they have managed to accumulate 68 dot balls, further highlighting their effectiveness in the latter stages of the innings.

In summary, Delhi Capitals have asserted their bowling skills in both the powerplay and death overs stages, showcasing exceptional skill and control throughout the tournament. Their ability to consistently take wickets and restrict opposition batters has been a key factor in their success. The Delhi Capitals have solidified their position as major championship contenders because of their overpowering performance and superb skill show. As they await their opponent in the final, they will be determined to retain their winning streak and capitalize on their abilities to earn victory in the ultimate battle.

In the focused energy IPL 2023 Finals, Ajinkya Rahane exhibited his phenomenal batting ability by and by as he crushed one more staggering six in the equivalent over. Joshua Little of the Gujarat Titans was the bowler who was hit this time. The spectators were mesmerized by Rahane’s two sixes in an over, which added even more excitement to the thrilling encounter.

Rahane hit the ball superbly, timing it perfectly and swinging the bat fully

The effect reverberated through the stadium as the ball cruised high and long. As though time had immediately stopped, each of the 11 players on the field transformed into simple observers, appreciating the magnificence of Rahane’s shot.

When Little hit a ball outside off stump that was slightly fuller, the moment arrived. Rahane seized the opportunity and unleashed a powerful swing through the line, undeterred by the previous six. Rahane extended his drive, producing immense power and elevation, and the shot’s timing and execution were flawless.

It was breathtaking to watch the ball soar into the night sky. The direction was immaculate, and the association among bat and ball was unadulterated flawlessness. The group ejected in sheer enjoyment as the ball cleared the limit ropes easily, stamping one more dynamite six for Rahane.

Twitter was quite hyped about Rahane’s good form:

The 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) final between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Titans (GT) was scheduled for Sunday, May 28 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. However, incessant rain prevented a ball from being bowled, so the match was moved to Monday.

With four titles, CSK are the most successful team in IPL history. They have a number of world-class players on their roster, including MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Ravindra Jadeja, making them the most experienced team in the competition.

GT are the reigning champs and are hoping to turn into the principal group to come out on top for consecutive IPL championships. They have a youthful and invigorating group, driven by Hardik Pandya and Rashid Khan. The match is certain to be a completely exhilarating challenge and it will be intriguing to see who ends up as the winner.

What happens if rain washes out reserve day as well?

There is a possibility of a 5-over score per match if the weather stays the same. A Super Over can occur even if that is out of reach. The team at the top of the league table will win in the most unlikely of circumstances.

England should consider picking David Willey for Sunday’s T20 World Cup final against Pakistan, as he may be a better fit for the MCG than Chris Jordan. That is the view of Eoin Morgan, their ex-captain, who has been following the team around Australia in his new role as a pundit for Sky Sports. Jordan, a key player in T20Is throughout Morgan’s tenure. Replaced the injured Mark Wood in the England team for Thursday’s semi-final win against India at Adelaide Oval.

He returned figures of 3 for 43 across his four overs and was singled out for praise by Buttler. Who said Jordan had delivered “a hell of a performance” after being asked to bowl three of the last five overs. But Morgan suggested the dimensions at the MCG. Where the straight boundaries are slightly shorter than at Adelaide Oval but the square boundaries are considerably longer. Might not suit his yorker-heavy method at the death. Suggested England could bring Willey into the side in a bid to take early wickets.

Also Read: Gavaskar Not A Fan of Wholesale Changes In Indian Team

The all-round performance and variation of Willy is vital at this pitch

Asked on Sky’s Cricket Podcast how big a loss Wood would be if he fails to recover in time for Sunday’s final, Morgan said: “When you look at conditions here, it just suits him and it probably works against someone like Chris Jordan at the death bowling his yorkers. Straight at the MCG, it’s so short. There’s very little margin for error. “If Mark Wood isn’t fit, you might even see someone like Dave Willey come in to swing it, and then you can bowl him and Chris Woakes at the death. Bowling into the wicket, forcing the Pakistan batters to hit square and creating catching opportunities. There might be another selection question for Jos Buttler.

“It goes without saying, you have to have those ground dimensions working in your favour in big games. Because if you make basic mistakes and get hit to the short side the whole time, you’re going to be up against it.” Morgan was also asked about the possibility that the final could be decided by a Super Over. Like the 50-over World Cup final in 2019, and who he would choose to bowl one for England. “If you were to say flat wicket. Everything set fair at the MCG, I think it’d be Sam Curran,” he said.