IPL Season 2: Story So far

The IPL season 2 started with usual aplomb and fanfare and I must say I was pleasantly surprised by the splendor of the opening ceremony. Consider that SA cricket had just 3 weeks to organize all this, it is been real good. Lalit Modi and SA cricket have done a good job. The matches so far have thrown up some unexpected results and some old war horses have been match winners. Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Vetori and Warne turning out to be match winners is pleasant but not expected by the most. It shows that love and passion for cricket and the proven skills are never out of vogue in any form of cricket. However, two most talking points of the IPL season 2 have been:

1) Weather: Weather has been a real spoil sport so far turning the matches into very much "Unlike 20-20". This form of cricket is known for blistering pace and hard hitting with usually high scoring matches. For once, it has been more sedate. The matches are being shortened, there are multiple interruptions, D/L baba creating grossly unfair propositions for other team, it is all happening. I think, even Lalit Modi would not have expected this. Hopefully, Rain Gods will be kinder henceforth and matches will be usual 20-20 slam bang ones.

2) Strategy Break: The strategy break has been a talking point since IPL season 2 started. It is mandated to be taken after 10 overs (or midway) in both the sessions. The duration is of 7.5 minutes. In the rain curtailed match yesterday, it was taken even after the match was reduced to 12 overs. This particular instance has raised the hackles of purists of the game and even some experts. Obviously there are some who support this and others who oppose it. I also thought to join the bandwagon and give my point of opinion. Well, in my view strategy break should always be an on-demand break. Every team should be given a 3 minute strategy break every session based on when they deem it necessary. Obviously, a change of strategy or strategy re-thinking is required when things are not going as per the plan. The captain/coach should decide the time to take the break. The coach's role is important and typically the captain is so involved in the actions around him that he needs a fresh approach or input to take corrective actions. That's why I feel it has be a on-demand break rather than a pre-determined one.

Cheers