Ten matches, eleven days, two venues, one undefeated team, one double-header, no major controversy, two five-wicket hauls, one hundred, lots of sixes, and no spectator sum up the progress in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 until now. Here is a roundup of the last week of cricket.
Performance of the week: Andre Russell’s 5-15
Russell is, till date, the only cricketer to have been named the IPL MVP twice, but his batting played a major part in that. While he is still looking for that golden touch, he has thrived with ball. Eoin Morgan has reserved his overs for the very end. Against Mumbai Indians, he bowled overs 18 and 20, and finished with career-best figures of 2-0-15-5.
Star of the week: Arshdeep Singh
With its initial matches scheduled in Mumbai, Punjab Kings did not hesitate to go in with four fast bowlers. Despite the presence of Mohammed Shami and by BBL stars Jhye Richardson and Riley Meredith, the unheralded Arshdeep Singh emerged as their star seam bowler (5 wickets, economy 7.11). He is only 22 and barely quick, but his canny variations and nagging accuracy make him special.
Comeback of the week: Jaydev Unadkat
Jaydev Unadkat leads Saurashtra, but for Rajasthan Royals he is not even the top-choice Saurashtra left-arm seamer. That is Chetan Sakariya. When picked, however, Unadkat took out Delhi’s top three inside the Powerplay, leaving them reeling at 36/3. He finished with 4-0-15-3, and was named Player of the Match.
Surprise of the week: Royal Challengers Bangalore
Given how frequently they do not make it to the top four, it is surprising how Bangalore have managed to retain a fanbase this strong. This time, however, they have managed to convert their potential into performance – until now, at least. They are, after all, the only unbeaten side of the tournament.
Quote of the week: Chris Morris
“There are guys that get paid to bat and guys that get paid to slog, and I know which I am. That’s why I play so much golf.” – Chris Morris reveals his secret slog recipe.