The ongoing IPL 2024 season has been dominated by the bat, with bowlers struggling to contain rampant run-scoring. This has prompted former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, mentor of the Kolkata Knight Riders, to propose a bold solution: switching the ball manufacturer.
Gautam Gambhir: Uneven Contest
With batsmen frequently chasing down totals exceeding 200 runs, concerns are mounting about the balance between bat and ball. Gautam Gambhir believes the current Kookaburra ball used in the IPL doesn’t offer enough assistance to bowlers as it wears down throughout the innings.
“If a manufacturer cannot produce a ball which can last for 50 overs, might as well change the manufacturer. There’s nothing wrong with changing the manufacturer. What is this compulsion with only using the Kookaburra?,” Gambhir said in 180 not out podcast.
Duke: Ball for Swing and Seam
Gautam Gambhir suggests the introduction of Duke balls, known for their pronounced seam and ability to swing in the air. This would provide bowlers with more attacking options, particularly on pitches that don’t offer natural swing or bounce.
Bhogle also backs Duke balls
Adding weight to Gambhir’s argument, renowned commentator Harsha Bhogle also called for a switch to Duke balls on social media. He emphasized the need for a “ball with a more pronounced seam, that allows more lateral movement” to create a more even contest between bat and ball.
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Seeking More Balanced IPL 2024 match
Cricket analysts are actively searching for solutions to address the current imbalance. This potential change in ball manufacturer is just one suggestion amongst many, all aimed at creating a more exciting and competitive T20 format where both bowlers and batsmen can showcase their skills.
The idea of introducing Duke balls is bound to spark further debate, with some questioning the need for such a drastic change. However, Gambhir and Bhogle’s proposal certainly highlights the concerns surrounding the current state of the game in the high-scoring IPL.
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