T20: Change is the only constant

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For a generation that is struggling with technical flaws, T20 is a godsend to conceal the same.

However the first half of the IPL has proved that it is not exactly hit and giggle as the previous editions (barring 2009 in South Africa).

Teams laying stress on solidity at the top and deploying ‘new’ openers suggests a new line of thought. “By the way things are going even retiring a batsman out could be a tactical ploy in future.

The key is to get the best strikers in the team to play the maximum number of overs in T20,” said former Indian batsman Sanjay Manjrekar.

Pacemen like Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel and Lasith Malinga have altered perception on power play as well. Teams look at seeing the new ball without losing too much momentum at the top.

S. Badrinath for long was seen as the anchor in the middle overs while James Franklin was the clinical finisher.

Both have been elevated to open and their success only showed change is permanent in this format. “There is scope and space for an anchor in this format as well.

Any side would look to have a steady start, 120 deliveries is still quite a number,” according to CSK coach Stephen Fleming.

The defending champions have excelled in the end overs and preserving wickets has been the key.

All the changes, though, have not worked as well. Demoting Chris Gayle to No.4 was not seen as a logical move, primarily because the left-hander has a proven track record of setting the game up in a few overs.

“I am not against shuffling of batting order as the format demands a certain amount of risk taking. It is all about flexibility and it is a matter of maximising player potential and how well he can contribute to the team,” explained former Indian opener WV Raman.

It is not without reason that three of the five all time top run getters in the IPL are openers. As long there is not much dabble with the first two and have a settled combination the rest of the pack can be worked around them.

All the nine teams have had changes made to their top-order, some have clicked, some have left pundits mug faced, that’s the nature of this variety.

Most strategies are worth a try and if they come good it is best to continue without tampering them.