Mumbai Indians, the five-time champions, have acted as one of the cornerstones of the Indian Premier League's emergence, thanks to their illustrious campaigns and campaigners who have represented the blue squad. But the same side finished the previous season at the bottom of the points table. Through the forthcoming auctions, many fanatics expect a comeback through a major restructuring. 

With the retention of their central pillars across all the departments (Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma), the management under the coaching guidance of Mahela Jayawardene will be eager to acquire such players that align to their objectives and fill the significant voids. That said, here we look at the top five names that the Mumbai Indians should go all for in the 2025 IPL Mega Auction, and the commonality between all the names is that all the suggested players have donned the blue jersey at least once. 

Trent Boult

Trent Boult should be among the first names on the top priority list of Mumbai Indians' mega auction game plan. Roping the Kiwi speedster will bolster the pace of the attack that Jasprit Bumrah has already helmed. Boult's athleticism on-field will also help the side in the most advantageous ways possible.

The 35-year-old left-arm pacer is one of the best bowlers of the contemporary era, known for his ability to take wickets with the new ball. He played well for his last team, the Rajasthan Royals, and was a vital bowler for the past three seasons. In 2024, he took 16 wickets in 16 matches with an economy rate of over eight. 

Yuzvendra Chahal

Yuzvendra Chahal, the star Indian leg-spinner, is the most successful bowler in IPL history. Chahal debuted in the IPL with MI in 2013 but quickly rose to prominence with RCB and RR. Overall, Chahal has become linked with consistency. Despite amassing mountains of wickets for RR over the previous three IPL seasons, the Sanju Samson-led club did not keep Chahal, and he will now be available in mega auctions, where MI might target him.

Overall, Chahal has become linked with consistency. MI has missed the presence of a great spinner over the previous three seasons, and Chahal can replace that need. In 2024, he has 18 wickets from 15 matches.  

Jos Buttler

Jos Buttler, the prominent English wicketkeeper batter, has already been a "hot topic" in the auction pool after being left off the Rajasthan Royals' retention list. Every club that participates is eager to have Buttler on their roster.

Buttler spent many seasons with the Mumbai-based squad under Rohit Sharma's supervision after making his IPL debut with MI in 2016. However, his long-term contributions to the inaugural winners have been immense, and his former team will dearly miss him in future editions. In just 11 matches, he has 359 runs and two three-digit mark numbers.  

Also Read: IPL 2025: 5 players Chennai Super Kings should target for in the upcoming mega auction

Nehal Wadhera

Nehal Wadhera appears to be one of the candidates whose side may exercise their only RTM (Right-to-Match) in the next auction. However, it is strongly recommended that the team go all-in for him, as this would assist them in aligning with their future chances.

The southpaw is adept at countering both spin and speed. He has a decent attitude and can be a floater anywhere in the lineup. The 24-year-old joined the organisation in 2023 and was impressed with his bat, strengthening the middle order. In 2024, he has played six games and scored 109 runs, which may appear modest but has a lot of potential beneath. 

Akash Madhwal

Akash Madhwal, a young Indian bowler who can take wickets at any point of the game, is usually a popular pick at the IPL mega auction. Madhwal has amazed everyone throughout his two seasons in Mumbai. He joined the franchise in 2023 and had an immediate effect.

In his first-ever IPL edition, he grabbed 14 wickets in eight games, the best of which was 5/5. His rapid pace may give some batters nightmares during vital game moments. As a result, Madhwal might be one of the players the Mumbai Indians use their RTM on in the blockbuster action, but they still should go for him. In his 2024 tenure, he got five wickets in five games. 

The Indian Premier League stands with a Sanskrit Slogan, "Yatra Pratibha Avsara Prapnotihi", which translates to where talent meets opportunity, symbolising an open platform for everyone to showcase their cricketing abilities, be it the local or overseas players. Foreign campaigners have played a significant role in evolving IPL into what it is now.

Many have left a long-lasting impact and created fanbases, signifying their gameplay and attitude. With the recent retention list having some unexpected releases, it is evident that not just the franchises but even the franchises would be up for an intense ride in the upcoming 2025 IPL Mega Auction. That said, here are the probable five foreign players who have the potential to convert their most expensive bids in the forthcoming Mega Auction.

Jos Buttler

Jos Buttler's release from the Rajasthan Royals squads was the most shocking regarding the foreign player's released list. Jos Buttler is among the most beloved foreign players with an ardent fanbase, thanks to his impactful calibre and genuine personality. Buttler acted as a saviour in many instances for the Rajasthan Royals side, where he talked with the bat and occasionally as a captain and wicketkeeper.

With many teams eager to have a robust captain and wicketkeeper batter option in their squads, it is no surprise that the English cricketer attracts one of the highest bids in the upcoming 2025 IPL Mega Auction. 

Glenn Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell and his future stint with Royal Challenger Bengaluru was under the grey clouds, as he couldn't perform up to the mark. But the whole cricketing world is aware of his impeccable impact creation as a batter, bowler and fielder, not just limited to the IPL but even on an International level. Though he didn't unleash his game in the previous edition, Maxwell's association with the Bengaluru franchise has been valuable, where the team had the prominent trio of KGF (Kohli, Glenn & Faf).

Maxwell has always been known for having memorable seasons for a few franchises, and no doubt the cluster of ten sides would be eager to break the bank for him. Though his release surprised many, as his former franchise has three Right-to-Match (RTM) cards, he will likely return to his old squad. 

Faf du Plessis

Faf du Plessis rose to fame as a reliable opening batter and a side captain, and he got them to the playoffs twice out of his three captaincy tenures. Faf has been a mastermind in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's impeccable comeback to the playoffs spot from rock bottom.

To add the cherry on top, he has recently led a triumphant Lucia Kings to their first title in the recent Carribean Premier League edition (CPL). As it implies, several teams are eager to have the South African captain on their roster, making him one of the probable overseas players who can have a huge lump sum of money through the upcoming Mega Auction process.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Top-5 probable most expensive Indian players in the upcoming IPL Mega Auction

Trent Boult

Trent Boult has been one of the prominent left-hand pacers in the cricket world. He is humorously touted as the football player, thanks to his powerplay run giving nightmares to the batters and having bowling figures equivalent to a football game scorecard. Whatever the franchise it was, the Kiwi speedster always left a long-lasting impact on the ball and has gone along with his respective franchises.

Especially in a batters-dominated T20I landscape, there would be many rosters who would be willing to go for a high bid for acquiring Trent Boult's lethal pace and athletism, keeping in mind that the IPL Mega Auction is known for having players in the long run. 

Jake Fraser-McGurk

Jake Fraser-McGurk rose to fame for his swashbuckling batting approach and bolstering the team's batting order. Played his first-ever IPL edition for the Delhi Capitals, McGurk was able to obtain a colossal strike rate in just a minimal number of matches, which signifies his promising and astute power-hitter.

Despite his memorable run, Delhi Capitals has released his services but could have a possible retention through the RTM cards feature. However, it is evident that several teams are eager to acquire him in the long run, as this tournament has been a cornerstone in evolving new and emerging talent. 

The IPL 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular, and with just two games remaining, the excitement is at an all-time high. In Qualifier 2, Rajasthan Royals faced off against Sunrisers Hyderabad in a crucial match at Chepauk, Chennai. Rajasthan Royals won the toss and elected to bowl first, aiming to leverage the dew factor that often comes into play in the second innings.

First Over Drama

The match started with a bang as Trent Boult, known for his prowess with the new ball, struck early. Abhishek Sharma, SRH’s opener, was dismissed in the first over itself, sending a jolt through the SRH camp. Boult’s ability to swing the ball both ways made it challenging for the batters to settle.

See Also: Pakistan announce squad for T20 World Cup 2024

Powerplay Performance

Despite the early loss, Rahul Tripathi came in with a positive intent. He played some scintillating shots and handled the pressure well. Tripathi’s aggressive approach paid off, as he scored a quick-fire 37 off just 14 deliveries, giving SRH a much-needed boost. However, Boult struck again, removing Tripathi and later Aiden Markram, putting SRH in a precarious position.

Middle Overs Drama

Heinrich Klaasen joined Travis Head at the crease, and together, they aimed to stabilize the innings. Their partnership was crucial as they kept the scoreboard ticking and built a platform for a competitive total. The first strategic timeout saw SRH at 81/3 after 7 overs, a position from which they could build.

Just as SRH seemed to be recovering, Sandeep Sharma delivered a crucial blow by dismissing Travis Head. This wicket triggered a middle-order collapse, with Avesh Khan making significant inroads. Nitish Reddy and Abdul Samad fell cheaply, leaving SRH struggling to maintain momentum.

Late Innings Fightback

Amidst the tumbling wickets, Heinrich Klaasen stood tall. His resilience was pivotal in pushing SRH towards a respectable total. Shahbaz Ahmed provided vital support, and their partnership ensured that SRH did not completely capitulate. Klaasen’s fifty was instrumental in SRH reaching a total of 175/9.

RR’s Bowling Highlights

Trent Boult was the star with the ball, claiming key wickets and maintaining pressure throughout his spell. Avesh Khan’s impact in the middle overs was equally significant, while Sandeep Sharma’s timely breakthroughs kept SRH from getting away. Apart from Boult (3/45) and Avesh Khan (3/27), Sandeep Sharma (2/25) also claimed two wickets.

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

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are set to clash in IPL 2024 Qualifier 2 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on May 24. This match is crucial as both teams aim for their second IPL title. SRH, led by Pat Cummins, comes off a heavy defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders in Qualifier 1, while Sanju Samson’s RR triumphed over Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator.

3 players to be in focus from RR

Trent Boult: RR’s Bowling Spearhead

Trent Boult has been a standout performer for RR this season, taking 13 wickets in 15 matches with an economy rate 8.06. His ability to strike early with the new ball makes him a formidable force.

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Boult’s career in the IPL is decorated with impressive figures, having taken 118 wickets. His spell of 4-0-16-1 in the Eliminator against RCB highlights his ability to keep runs in check while taking crucial wickets. In the recent Eliminator, Boult’s economical bowling laid the foundation for RR’s victory, and his consistency will be vital in the upcoming clash against SRH. If Boult can get early wickets in quick succession, he can significantly hinder SRH’s ability to post a competitive total. This would put RR in a strong position to qualify for the IPL final.

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The Aggressive Opener

Jaiswal’s strike rate is over 145 against SRH, indicating his aggressive style. This season, he has scored 393 runs in 15 matches at a strike rate of 152.32, including a century.

Jaiswal has been crucial for RR despite ups and downs, especially in providing a strong start. His 45 runs off 30 balls in the Eliminator were pivotal in setting the tone for the chase. Jaiswal’s partnerships at the top, especially with Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Sanju Samson, have been instrumental in building solid foundations for RR’s innings. If Yashasvi Jaiswal provides another steady start for RR in this must-win game against SRH, then RR can either post a big total on the board or chase down any target with confidence.

Riyan Parag: The Uncapped Hero

Riyan Parag has emerged as a vital player for RR, scoring 567 runs at an average of 56.70 and a strike rate of 151.60. His promotion to number four has paid off, making him the top run-scorer for RR this season.

Parag’s 36 off 26 balls in the Eliminator against RCB showcased his ability to handle pressure. His consistency and ability to finish games make him a key player. Parag’s presence in the middle order provides stability and firepower, which is crucial for RR’s success. His ability to score quickly and maintain partnerships will be vital against SRH.

In a captivating encounter between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2024, LSG managed to post a competitive total of 196/5 despite early setbacks. KL Rahul and Deepak Hooda were crucial in steering the innings, but RR’s bowlers fought back admirably.

Lucknow Super Giants’ Batting Performance

LSG encountered a shaky start as Quinton de Kock and Marcus Stoinis were dismissed early, leaving them struggling at the beginning of their innings. KL Rahul and Deepak Hooda steadied the ship with a resilient partnership, accumulating runs steadily and punishing loose deliveries. Both batsmen showcased their class and scored fifties, but Hooda holed out against Ashwin. However, Rahul kept scoring some classical strokes and used the longer boundaries to score plenty of doubles. He looked good for a hundred but struck out against Avesh Khan at the death.

See Also: Delhi Capitals beat Mumbai Indians by 10 runs

Despite losing wickets towards the end, LSG managed to hover around the 10-runs-per-over mark, thanks to Nicholas Pooran’s and others’ late contributions. However, they fell short of the 200-run mark, finishing with 196/5.

Rajasthan Royals’ Bowling Display

RR’s bowlers, led by Trent Boult and Sandeep Sharma, made early inroads into the LSG batting lineup, putting them under pressure right from the start.

Although RR initially dominated proceedings, their bowling attack faltered in the middle overs as LSG’s batters capitalized on loose deliveries. Ashwin and Chahal failed to produce breakthroughs, allowing LSG to build a substantial partnership. Ashwin did get a wicket to his name in his next spell but runs kept flowing at a gentle pace as Yuzvendra Chahal was expensive and went wicketless for the first time this year.

Sandeep Sharma was called to the rescue, and he did get his second wicket and 200th of his career. Two quick wickets did ease off the run rate and Avesh Khan dismissed KL Rahul and exerted more pressure. Trent Boult followed it up with an excellent penultimate over by conceding just six off it, and Sandeep Sharma, too, stemmed the run rate and kept Lucknow below 200 with an excellent final over. Lucknow just conceded 56 runs in the last five overs.

Despite facing early setbacks, KL Rahul and Deepak Hooda’s resilient partnership helped LSG post a competitive total against RR. However, RR’s bowlers fought back admirably in the latter stages, restricting LSG to a score below 200.

LSG break 200 runs total

The last five matches this season produced totals of 210, 224, 206, 261 and 257. But LSG finally break that run to finish on 196. Avesh, Boult and Sandeep allowed only 25 off the last three overs, as Ekana Stadium continues to see sub-200 totals.

Rajasthan Royals are now leading the table in the IPL 2024 after securing their third consecutive victory. They triumphed over the Mumbai Indians with a six-wicket win in a match that heavily favored them at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday, April 1.

The Rajasthan Royals dominated the game from start to finish, showcasing exceptional skill and teamwork. Their strong performance left the Mumbai Indians struggling to keep up, ultimately resulting in a comfortable victory for the Royals.

Riyan Parag changes the game with his smashing 50

In a remarkable display of talent, 22-year-old Riyan Parag showcased maturity beyond his years as he guided the Rajasthan Royals to victory. This came after the Royals faced early setbacks, losing three wickets while chasing a modest target of 126 runs. Parag remained unbeaten, demonstrating his prowess with the bat by scoring 54 runs off 39 deliveries. His innings included five boundaries and three powerful sixes, steering the Royals to victory with 27 balls to spare.

Parag’s composed performance was crucial in overcoming the early hurdles faced by the Royals. His ability to hold the innings together under pressure highlights his potential as a future star of the game.

Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal plays on point

Trent Boult and Yuzvendra Chahal teamed up to claim six crucial wickets, with Boult setting the tone by striking early in the innings. Nandre Burger contributed with two dismissals, while Avesh Khan chipped in with one, leaving Rajasthan Royals with a target of 126 runs to chase.

Despite a resilient partnership between Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma, who added 56 runs together, the momentum shifted when Pandya departed, allowing Rajasthan to regain control of the match. As the chase resumed, Rajasthan appeared to have a straightforward task ahead, barring any unexpected twists that could complicate their pursuit of the modest total.

See Also: IPL 2024: Most runs and Most wickets after Match 14, MI vs RR

The tide turned further when Kwena Maphaka removed the dangerous Yashasvi Jaiswal, followed by Akash Madhwal claiming the wickets of Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson. It was then that Riyan Parag stepped up, displaying patience and composure as he anchored the innings. Parag cautiously built his innings, absorbing pressure before unleashing his strokes once he found his rhythm.

With this victory, Rajasthan Royals surged to the top of the table, displacing Kolkata Knight Riders with six points and an impressive net run rate of +1.249. The Royals and the Knights stand as the only two unbeaten teams in the tournament, setting the stage for an intriguing battle for supremacy in the IPL 2024 season.

Mumbai Indians are taking on Rajasthan Royals at Wankhede Stadium in a crucial IPL 2024 match. In their first home match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Mumbai Indians (MI) are clashing with Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium.

After winning the toss, Rajasthan’s skipper Sanju Samson opted to field first and test Mumbai’s batting lineup early on. However, Mumbai’s innings commenced on a sad note as Trent Boult, Rajasthan’s pace spearhead, made an immediate impact as he picked the crucial wicket of Rohit Sharma.

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Early Struggles for Mumbai Indians

The Mumbai Indians faced a challenging start to their batting innings as Trent Boult wreaked havoc, inflicting three crucial blows to hinder their progress. Rohit Sharma, facing his first ball of the innings, fell victim to Boult’s deceptive delivery, breaching his defence and eliciting an outside edge, which wicketkeeper Sanju Samson skillfully caught.

Boult and Chahal Brilliance

Trent Boult continued to dominate, dismissing Naman Dhir and Dewald Brevis in quick succession, leaving MI in a dire situation at 1/2 after the opening over. Despite missing out on a hat-trick, Boult’s remarkable spell left Mumbai reeling. After the four-over spell, Boult boasted a magnificent figure of 3 for 22.

Yuzvendra Chahal’s exceptional bowling performance further compounded Mumbai’s challenges. With precise variations and a tight line, Chahal troubled Mumbai’s batters, conceding only 11 runs off 24 balls. His crucial wickets, including Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma, underscored his prowess as a spinner.

Mumbai’s Fightback

Despite the early setbacks, Tilak Verma and Hardik Pandya staged a resilient partnership, stitching together 56 runs in 36 balls. However, Yuzvendra Chahal’s dismissal of Hardik Pandya halted Mumbai’s momentum, leading to a struggle to build substantial innings.

Chahal’s dominance, coupled with Boult’s early breakthroughs, significantly impacted Mumbai’s innings, restricting their scoring opportunities and leading to the loss of crucial wickets.

With Mumbai Indians struggling at 97 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 14 overs, the team faces an uphill battle to stage a recovery and set a competitive target for Rajasthan Royals.

With Mumbai Indians struggling at 97 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 14 overs, the team faces an uphill battle to stage a recovery and set a competitive target for Rajasthan Royals.

Rajasthan Royals showcased their bowling strength, with Boult and Chahal leading the attack. Their disciplined bowling and strategic variations stifled Mumbai’s batting lineup, preventing them from gaining momentum.

Chahal’s Impressive Record

Yuzvendra Chahal’s stellar performance in IPL 2024, bagging six wickets in three games, highlights his impact as a match-winning bowler for Rajasthan Royals.

Most 3-wicket hauls in the IPL
20 – Jasprit Bumrah
20 – Yuzvendra Chahal*
19 – Lasith Malinga
17 – Amit MIshra

Gary Stead, the head coach of New Zealand, expresses confidence in Kane Williamson’s fitness ahead of the Mt. Maunganui Test against South Africa. Williamson, a key batsman, had to withdraw during the T20I series against Pakistan due to a minor hamstring strain.

Dealing with injuries over the past 10 months, including an ACL rupture in IPL 2023, Williamson’s selection has been approached conservatively by New Zealand’s team management, prioritizing his workload management.

Stead anticipates Williamson’s return to training in a few days, emphasizing the importance of allowing him sufficient recovery time. Despite the temptation to ease Williamson’s timeline given South Africa’s inexperienced Test side, Stead is cautious, recognizing the challenge posed by the Proteas and their determination to prove themselves. New Zealand has never beaten South Africa in a Test series, adding significance to the upcoming contest.

Stead’s Outlook: Williamson’s Return and Boult’s Future in Focus for New Zealand

Trent Boult, not bound by a central contract and now a free player, may return for the T20Is against Australia, with an eye on securing a spot in the T20 World Cup squad later in the year. Coach Stead plans to discuss Boult’s future this week, acknowledging uncertainty but highlighting the team’s preparedness, evidenced by impressive performances from Ben Sears and the returning Lockie Ferguson in the bowling department against Pakistan.

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Stead commends the bowling group’s excellence throughout, noting the alternating performances of Sears and Ferguson, along with accurate and demanding spells from Southee, Milne, Henry, Santner, and Sodhi, putting significant pressure on Pakistan in the series.

Trent Boult, with his left-arm spin, and years of experience knows how to exploit movement with the new-ball better than most going around. Despite the common notion that the white ball does not provide much movement, Trent Boult has shown that he can extract enough to keep batters under pressure. His left-arm angle further makes him all the more tougher to face, making him an asset to any side he place for.

With the Mumbai Indians, his ability up front made it easier for Mumbai to spread Bumrah’s overs around the innings. Now, with the Rajasthan Royals, Trent Boult, tasked with the first over as always, has completed a rare feat of picking up two wickets in the first over on four occasions in his IPL career. No other bowler has managed to achieve the same feat more than twice in their career. His feat though indicates his ability to break batting line-ups as early as ever. He did so last night against the Capitals, picking up Shaw and Pandey in the first over to kill the Capitals chase before it even started.

His ability has also allowed his side to think about defending low scores. Last year, in the Big Bash League, Trent Boult replicated his efforts as he helped his side make a score of 122 look a lot bigger than it actually is. His ability has been proof that quality, swinging left-arm pace is among the toughest to face with the new-ball. Beyond swing in his first over, Boult has done a fair bit in the other parts of the powerplay. Since IPL 2020, no bowler has taken more wickets in the powerplay as him, and very few left-arm pacers have looked as menacing as him with the new-ball.

His double wicket overs this season though had a lot more to be happy about given the situations they came in. Against both the Capitals and Sunrisers, Rajasthan got off to a really good start in the powerplay, which shows that the new-ball is negotiable, and can even be taken on. Against the Capitals, Rajasthan got five boundaries in the first over to set things rolling, and on both occasions, they finished with really good scores.

Trent Boult though, proved that the new-ball still looks menacing with the right skill behind it. He came in with his unique angle and ensured the stumps were in play through his spell. His new-ball figures in both games are clear indicators of his skill, which can only be replicated by a fair few in today’s cricketing World.