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Another season of IPL concluded on a high note. 45 days of non-stop Cricket action kept everyone glued to their TV sets.

Summary of the Indian Premier League 2019 | Planet "M"

#IPL2019: As it happened

Find below the summary of Indian Premier League Season 12 in the form of an infographic. Enjoy!

#IPL2019: As it happened
Infogram

Born and brought up in Himachal Pradesh, Rishi Dhawan is a bowling all-rounder and loves to play cricket 24×7. The 24-year-old Himachal boy has also led the Himachal Pradesh state team in the domestic circuit. After realizing the potential of his dreams and fewer opportunities available back at home, Rishi left his home-town Mandi few years back, to earn a name for himself as an aspiring cricketer.

#KXIP Star of the Week – Rishi Dhawan | Planet "M"

Rishi Dhawan and Akshar Patel of Kings XI Punjab

When he was induced in the Kings XI Punjab squad for the IPL 2014 season, Rishi was thrilled to play amidst Sehwag, Miller and Johnson.

“I did watch the IPL auctions that day at my nani’s home in Amritsar. I was certainly thrilled like any other player when there was bidding on my name. But that was it, and now I don’t even talk about it anymore. I know it will only count if I make a winning contribution to my team,” said Rishi Dhawan in an interview.

Team KXIP met Rishi Dhawan this week for an exclusive chat. We asked Rishi a few questions about his life as a cricketer.

To whom you would like to bowl for your life: Sachin Tendulkar or Virender Sehwag?

Rishi Dhawan (RD): Both. I had bowled to Sachin paaji in nets only. It was a great experience. Recently, got a chance to bowl to Viru bhai during Vijay Hazare Trophy. Both are legends. So would love to bowl both.

What do you love more: Books or Cricket?
RD: I don’t read books so cricket only.

What is the best advice given to you?
RD: Sachin paaji once told me that you are good bowler and batsman so concentrate on both. Do your best to be a good all-rounder. I always keep that in my mind.

If you were a Film Director, whom you would sign as your lead actor and actress?
RD: Hero..obviously me [laughs] and heroine koi bhi Bollywood ki. Chalo Katrina Kaif ko le lunga. (Any Bollywood heroine. Okay, I would sign Katrina Kaif)

What does Rishi Dhawan like the most about his life as a cricketer?
RD: Best thing is that I get to play cricket which is my love. I just enjoy a lot when I play cricket so best thing about life is that I am a cricketer.

He was named the best Under-19 cricketer by the BCCI for the 2012-13 season. After that, his performance with Kings XI Punjab brought him the Emerging Player trophy for the 2014 edition of IPL. He took a five-wicket haul in his second only first-class match against Delhi last year; whilst his performance with the Under-23 team helped India win the 2013 ACC Emerging Teams Cup.

Coming from the ranks of Junior cricket with gradual transformation to the Senior side, Gujarat’s Akshar Patel has a lot to promise with both bat and ball.

Akshar Patel – The next breed of Indian stars! | Planet "M"

Akshar Patel of Kings XI Punjab with his team-mate David Miller

An admirer of batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, cricket never came as the first choice to the lanky southpaw spinner. When Akshar expressed his wish to become an engineer, it was actually his father who forced him to play cricket seriously.

Since his First-Class debut in 2012 to the ongoing India-Sri Lanka series, he capitalized the chances given to him. Be it the 2013/14 Ranji season with Gujarat or the debut IPL season with KXIP this year – his performance in the One Day Internationals made everyone a fan of him.

He has 29 First-Class wickets to his name with an impressive economy of 2.10 whereas his best bowling figure stands at 7/75 – all that from just 8 matches.

Talk about his performance in the shortest format of the game, his bowling average falls at 22.52 in comparison with 24.10 that he manages in the First-Class cricket.

While his bowling records impress equally in the List A career, his batting ability lower-down the order often comes handy. It was seen during the Quadrangular series finale – in August this year – where he and Rishi Dhawan paired to add 93 runs for the seventh wicket that thumped Australia A in a close encounter at Marrara Oval in Australia.

The same kind of hitting he did during the 1st ODI between India and Sri Lanka at Barabati Stadium of Cuttack: scored 14 off just 4 balls that he faced, out of which two went on for sixes as India put 363/5 on board after brilliant centuries from Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan for the first wicket.

His bowling figure of 3/40 in the 3rd ODI at Hyderabad even left R Ashwin shy of him who managed just one at the expense of 43 runs. Note that Akshar Patel bowled a maiden over too.

At the age of just 20, Akshar Patel, however, has had a brilliant start to his career. While it may be too early to comment on his all-rounding ability, especially his comparison with Ravindra Jadeja for an ODI slot, performing at the international level is one thing and staying there while improvising your own game is another.

But when he said “I have set a goal, to play for India when I am 23 or 24, and I am working towards that” in an interview last year, it can be assumed he knows his game even better.

They say IPL is not cricket and T20 should not be promoted heavily for the sake of prolonging Test cricket. While some may argue the role of franchisee-based tournaments to promote sports including cricket; though, you would agree that it’s a launching pad for many aspirants out there to showcase their talent and in turn earn a national call.

Parvinder Awana – KXIP’s home grown hero! | Planet "M"

Parvinder Awana is the 3rd most successful bowler of all time for Kings XI Punjab.

We have seen it in the past. The rise of the IPL not only proved beneficial to Indian cricket in particular, but also did wonders to other cricketing nations as well. Shaun Marsh, Shane Watson, Kieron Pollard, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Ajinkya Rahane, Mohit Sharma…you just name it and the list goes on.

Parvinder Awana, however, joins a different list of achievers. Remember Rahul Sharma (Pune Warriors), Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals), and R Vinay Kumar (Royal Challengers Bangalore). The trio have one thing similar between them – they have grown up through an IPL franchisee, contributed to their team’s success, and earned a national cap for self.

After an impressive domestic season with Delhi Ranji team back in 2011-12, Awana immediately found a spot in the KXIP squad ahead of IPL season 5. He didn't disappoint and lived up to the expectations; ended his maiden IPL season as the highest wicket-taker for Punjab: 17 wickets off 12 matches whereas his team found sixth place in the points-tally with 16 points.

The IPL charm continued to keep Awana in headlines when he was rewarded a place in the national side for the T20I series against a touring English side in December 2012. His magic with the ball didn’t work this time. He remained wicketless, managed to have an economy of 11.83 from 6 overs throughout the series.

Soon after, he broke the jinx with the ball in IPL 2013. Kept the opposition batsman tickling, paired with Azhar Mahmood he jointly led the wickets tally for Punjab with 15 wickets from 14 matches. Again in the IPL 7, he found himself with some wickets though only appeared in fewer matches.

In the recently concluded CLT20 he dismissed the likes of Suresh Raina, Pawan Negi and MS Dhoni in quick succession – during the 2^nd semi-final – only to realize after a while that it’s a hat-trick. However, Punjab didn’t win the final against Chennai but Awana, once again, remained the leading striker for the side: 9 wickets from 5 matches.

Fate or fortune, however you may say, Kings XI Punjab look a totally different side with him in the playing XI. Though statistically, he is not as good a bowler citing an economy of 8.26; yet he managed to stay in the top 3 bowlers who ever played for Punjab.

It’s his wicket taking ability that makes him special. So what if he didn’t deliver the same at the international level, given the maiden chance against England back in 2012! As long as there will be wickets in his kitty, an Indian call is just around the corner.

Here hopes more happy times for Awana and his journey with KXIP!

Ever since the start of the IPL, there have been numerous youngsters who hit headlines through it. From International stars to the Indian domestic cricketers, the lucrative T20 leagues still might be a topic of long debate; yet the exposure to unknown cricketers has been a boon!

Here are the find-of-the-season amid domestic stars who shined in an IPL season:

1. Ravindra Jadeja (Rajasthan Royals), IPL 2008 :

Ravindra Jadeja

An 'under-rated' rockstar who, by today, has established himself with the honor of 'Sir' - Jadeja came upfront as the key performer for Rajasthan Royals' lone champions triumphs back in 2008.

Before the debutant IPL season, he acknowledged self as a part of victorious Indian U-19 cricket team - led by Virat Kohli in Malaysia, 2008 - followed by a dominated domestic season with 739 runs and 42 wickets in 2008-09.

He might be regarded as a lucky prone who has given weight-age ahead of another deservedly candidates, but the three triple centuries with his name in the domestic circuit surely does make him talent of a kind.

2. Manish Pandey (Royal Challengers Bangalore), IPL 2009 :

Manish Pandey

If it takes just one inning to flash your name in leading media outlets, then Manish Pandey has proved it absolutely right.

Coming from the Under-19 world cup winning squad - Manish is an unknown entity to limelights until he bagged 'First Indian Centurion of the IPL' in Johannesburg, SA where he amassed brave 144 against the then champion Deccan Chargers.

A consistent top-order performer for the Karnataka Cricket team, he has been a reckoned name amid Ranji scorers. Nevertheless, vividly enchanted (yet) for his IPL heroics.

3. Saurabh Tiwary (Mumbai Indians), IPL 2010 :

Saurabh Tiwary

Speaking Ranchi, Jharkhand and if only Dhoni pops out on your mind, then you have to meet this look-a-like MSD clone - Saurabh Tiwary.

Another addition from the U-19 WC team, Saurabh put his power packed hitting on front whilst playing for Mumbai Indians in IPL season 3. Top scorer after Sachin, he has 419 runs off 16 games with 18 sixes alongside his name speaks the volume of his talent.

A southpaw version of Dhoni, Saurabh has got natural ability to hit runs. Though, he is yet to make a mark beside his 2010 find-of-season.

4. Rahul Sharma (Pune Warriors India), IPL 2011 :

Rahul Sharma

A lanky spinner and a trademarked Pune Warriors' find - Rahul Sharma well regarded for his impressive Economy rate on the bowling card.

Back then in IPL 2011, he not only finished as the joint 7th highest wicket-taker but also stand ahead of the likes of Malinga, Vettori and Warne in terms of economy rate.

Soon after, his IPL stat brought national call for the limited overs; where he debuted 3/43 against the West Indies at Indore in December 2011: the same match when Sehwag hit 219.

5. Ajinkya Rahane (Rajasthan Royals), IPL 2012 :

Ajinkya Rahane

The next Dravid-in-making, Ajinkya Rahane well known for his shot selection and timing.

A composed and determined lad from the cricket producing land - Mumbai, he has emerged as a potent batsman who scores beautifully. In IPL 2012, while playing for Rajasthan Royals, he remained leading run-getter for the side with 560 runs with an average of 40.

A regular feature in Mumbai domestic cricket team, Rahane has got sound temperament and good technique, which, in turn, has brought him to the international circuit lately.

6. Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals), IPL 2013 :

Sanju Samson

Another find from the 'Talent Academy' Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson is the latest sensation what Rajasthan based franchisee could offer to cricket.

Being the youngest cricketer to have secured an IPL contract, Sanju is basically from the state of Kerala.

A promising striker of the ball, who has played instrumental role for Royals this season - Samson' shot selection highly lauded by cricket pundits and cricketers around the corner of IPL. Thus far, he has accumulated 206 runs off 10 matches; where his 41-ball-63 vs RCB made everyone a fan of this teen sensation.

Here are the cricketers who amassed century in the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League:

1. Shane Watson (Rajasthan Royals)

Shane Watson

101 off 61 balls vs Chennai Super Kings: A part of the Rajasthan Royals since 2008, Shane Watson smashed the first ton of IPL and still ended up on the wrong side. Watson will consider himself unfortunate as all the other centuries of the tournament ended up in a winning cause.

2. Chris Gayle (Royal Challengers Bangalore)

Chris Gayle

175* off 66 balls vs Pune Warriors: The giant Jamaican is one of the finest exponents of the T20 game. The lazy gait overshadows the raw power and timing that is generated by minimal footwork. Considering his previous bashings of the bowlers, this one was expected. For Pune Warriors India bowlers, it was their bad luck that Gayle chose them. Records tumbled as Gayle knocked fastest century in history of cricket, highest T20 score and most sixes (17).

3. Suresh Raina (Chennai Super Kings)

Suresh Raina

100* off 53 balls vs Kings XI Punjab: The last time Raina celebrated a century in IPL was when he reached 98 and mistook it for a century in 2009. He had to wait four years to slam his maiden IPL century and he did it in style against Kings XI. Once again he celebrated when on 99 and thankfully he reached his century.

4. David Miller (Kings XI Punjab)

David Miller

101* off 38 balls vs Royal Challengers Bangalore: While everyone were talking about Gayle, David Miller was fancying his chances against RCB. Facing an improbable target after losing three wickets in eight overs, Miller played a blinder and made Virat Kohli pay for one of those rare dropped catches. Such was his ferocity that RCB bowlers ran out of idea and by the time they came up, Miller had finished the game with two overs to spare.

Here are some of the 'uncapped' cricketers who have impressed everyone with their performances so far in the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League.

1. Mandeep Singh (Kings XI Punjab)

Mandeep Singh

219 runs from 8 matches with an average of 31.28, he is the top run-scorer in the tally of 'uncapped' players which eventually speaks of his worth.

2. Manprit Juneja (Delhi Daredevils)

Manprit Juneja

As the Daredevils failed to repeat their old form where openers constantly failing short, Juneja in the middle order slot has ensured some quick runs (125 off 7 matches) with a strike 97.65

3. Kevon Cooper (Rajasthan Royals)

Kevon Cooper

A key component in Rajasthan Royals' winning triumphs Cooper being the leading wicket-taker for 'uncapped' players list. Thus far, his card reads: 10 wickets off 7 matches with an economy of 8.46

4. Mohit Sharma (Chennai Super Kings)

Mohit Sharma

A T20 debutant from this IPL, and probably another find for Chennai, Mohit has notched up 6 wickets from 6 matches with a handy economy of 6.16

5. Ashish Reddy (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

Ashish Reddy

Been a bowler for the Hyderabad Ranji team, IPL has discovered a fine lower-order batsman in him where he has collected 120 runs from 9 matches at the strike rate of 144.57

IPL 6: An analysis of opening combinations of teams | Planet "M"

Mumbai Indians' practice session

1. Mumbai Indians :

Even as they have journeyed from the famous Ponting vs. Tendulkar debates during India-Australia clashes to 'Pondulkar', the two batting maestros of cricket failed to create a similar magic for the Mumbai Indians. With only 109-runs between them, Ricky Ponting must either promote Rohit Sharma or Ambati Rayudu ahead of him.

2. Delhi Daredevils :

If the backbone fractured Delhi Daredevils were underwhelming with David Warner-Unmukt Chand as the openers, the the arrival of Virender Sehwag hasn't assuaged their concern. Though, skipper Mahela Jayawardene has been among runs, Delhi yet to find the perfect combination.

3. Royal Challengers Bangalore :

With Chris Gayle being their key player, RCB has tried Tilakaratne Dilshan, Mayank Agarwal and Lokesh Rahul in the opening slot and yet to figure out the best. An all-guns-blazing Bangalore have competitive players in them, but none to partner Gayle at top.

4. Sunrisers Hyderabad :

The newbie in the house, SunRisers comprises T20 specialist batsmen but lacks local talents. With four-overseas players rule, they need local talent to post a bug score on the board.

5. Kolkata Knight Riders :

The defending champions, KKR, could open with either Jacques Kallis or Eoin Morgan as opener since Bisla is consistently falling short with runs. With Gautam Gambhir doing well at top, Manoj Tiwary should be promoted to the No.3 slot. Nevertheless, they have been one of the most balanced sides of IPL.

6. Pune Warriors India :

Pune Warriors is one side which is replete with all-rounders. They should persist with Robin Uthappa-Aaron Finch as an opening pair. Middle-order batting is a cause to worry though as the too fragile to convert starts though problem lies in the shaky middle-order which is leaking wickets rather scoring runs.

7. Rajasthan Royals :

The Rahul Dravid-led Royals where the batting revolves around Shane Watson, Ajinkya Rahane and Rahul Dravid at no. 3 has been delivering consistently. Rahane has continued from where he left last year, amassing runs. Brad Hodge has been a reliable finisher for them.

8. Kings XI Punjab :

Kings XI has not been given good starts by Adam Gilchrist and Mandeep Singh. The middle order has been quite consistent but need the openers to fire to exert dominance on the opposition.

9. Chennai Super Kings :

They have always been slow-starters but have also been the most consistent side. With Vijay showing some form, Michael Hussey would be the best man to join him at the top. The middle-order’s over dependence on Dhoni is a worry though.

“Here, I’m not speaking in favour of MS Dhoni neither I want to escape him for wrong decisions. Rather, I want him to bring back this Indian team on the right track. And to regain the winning mantra once again. Criticism must be there for the sake of betterment. In between the line of a win or defeat, I don’t know how much it affect a player, a captain, a coach or any other individual…but as a fan, it really hurts the way India performing in the current scenario. Those down shoulders, tired mind-sets, pathetic run-outs, unfortunate catches and crucial innings, indeed, shattered heart of an Indian fan.” Writes Monika Arora

Team India: Stop upsetting the fans! | Planet "M"

Virat Kohli, clean bowled.

If you believe a team is as good as its captain then you have to admit a captain, too, is as good as his team. It’s not about who is scoring how much and at which number for the side. What matters is how much you contribute to keep your team in the game.

Back to cricket, like every team game, collective effort is what counts. Yes, an individual’s score matters and following the same trend doesn’t mean next 10 boys aren’t worthy enough. Team management could separate individuals in a specific role but it's captain’s responsibility to bring the best of his men.

Speaking about the state of Indian cricket from last year’ English summer, things are getting worse on every note. People may debate endlessly on the team combination, field placements and even the role of seniors or the balance inside. In the end, what matters most is the result – either a win or lose.

One side, a win not only brings back faith amongst the fans but also the belief in their heroes. Whereas, a defeat exposed all weakness and, somehow, overshadowed some quality performances – be it from a senior or a debutant or whoever.

But no one speaks about the actual issue – the commitment and composure. The pride to represent your nation. The role of support staff. The mentorship of the head coach. The attitude in the dressing room. The seriousness lies between team atmosphere both on the ground and off the ground. And the moderation tactics applied by a captain.

In today’s competitive cricket where commercialization of sports not only adds viewership and money inflow but also decide the fate of an individual – be it Sachin Tendulkar or MS Dhoni or today’s demanding stars Virat Kohli. The more you shine on the ground, the more you endorsed off the ground. The reason behind the mammoth success of IPL is no more an exception. It not only brings domestic players at bigger platform but also fetches public attention.

In such cases, the role of the skipper becomes crucial. His leadership has to control individual’s commitment and mind-set. He has to set the flow of the team’s performance graph. His footsteps are not only modifying team’ morale but ensures his mates – someone is there to lean on as a backing force. After all words, the captain is only questioned and criticized for each fault. A captain can inspire, lead from the front or even ease one’s losing nerves. But he can’t replace a bowler. He can’t bat twice. He can’t run behind every catch. He has to be one and self-driven.

Yes, I want my team to start winning – not only at home but also on tours. But sacking seniors, infusing young guns or demoting skipper is not the solution. Surely, major reforms needed in current Indian Cricket. But it takes time to build a team. Our senior players have to be more responsible. Rather focusing on individual records, they should set examples in front of youngsters. And Dhoni needs to play a sheet anchor’ role.

It is not that our bench strength is meager or we don’t have talent for the futuristic Indian team. We lack with discipline. We lack with the right mindset. We are lacking in with the perfect mentor.

And we lack with answer of these questions:

Are our players tired of playing cricket? Or, indeed some rifts reside in the team regarding the captaincy issue? Are we giving over-indulgence to individual records rather than the collective efforts to win? Where has the winning spirit gone away? Or, our players have become insensitive? Is our obsession shifted to IPL from Tests or ODIs? Or, are selectors don’t have proper strategy? Does BCCI care to make strong decisions rather limiting its employee’s freedom to make statements in the media?

Here, I’m not speaking in favour of MS Dhoni neither I want to escape him for wrong decisions. Rather, I want him to bring back this Indian team on the right track. And to regain the winning mantra once again. Criticism must be there for the sake of betterment.

In between the line of a win or defeat, I don’t know how much it affects a player, a captain, a coach or any other individual…but as a fan, it really hurts the way India performing at present. Those down shoulders, tired mind-sets, pathetic run-outs, unfortunate catches and crucial innings, indeed, shattered the heart of an Indian fan.

“In the ongoing T20 Word Cup Bhajji has returned with a bang against the English. His next opponents are the Aussies against whom he had some epic battles and on most occasions Bhajji has been the winner. It is expected that Bhajji will prove critical against them tomorrow!” Writes Monika Arora

World T20, Super Eights: Australia and the Harbhajan factor | Planet "M"

Harbhajan Singh is back !!

His inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad was a pure gamble since he has been seated out from the national team for more than a year. Later in the month of August, this year, some wicket-cruising performances with English county team Essex have brought sigh-of-relief moment for veteran Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh.

Despite his chirpy but headlined career summary, Indian camp sound more feasible with Bhajji’s Man of the Match performance in the group match. A match winning spell of 4-wickets left England nowhere but amidst of 90-runs defeat being tagged with “Bhajji is back”!

The most reputed spinner of Indian contingent who has been considered as a lone match winner after legendary Anil Kumble’ retirement, it left a sorry state when the same didn’t happen. Debuted in International cricket at the age of 17, however, the X-factor of Harbhajan often comes up against the Australians vividly.

Being played under the shadows of Kumble and Javagal Srinath, Bhajji was never been considered as India’s first choice spinner until 2008. The grit and composure of Turbanator brought in-light by former skipper Sourav Ganguly where he has achieved enormous success.

In his entire International career, he has claimed 687 wickets from 351 matches out of which 114 wickets (from 46 matches) came up against Australia. When it comes to World cup, he has scalped 36 wickets from 39 matches out of which 3 wickets attained against Australia from 5 matches considering 6 world cup tournaments in the year 2003-2011.

Timeline against Australia…

1998:

After an ordinary performance in the Board Playing XI with 1/127, debuted in the 3rd Test at Bangalore; ended first break with 2/136 and a score of 4* including a duck.

2001:

A life-line to his test career, courtesy Kumble’s injury. A sheer collection of 32-wickets in that home series; under Ganguly, the rise of Harbhajan made him the first Indian to have a Test hat-trick – dismissed Ricky Ponting, Adam Gilchrist and Shane Warne in a row. He also managed his career Best Bowling in an Inning – 8/84 in the second inning of the 3rd Test at Chepauk.

His dream spell (in 2nd Test) ended Australia’s 16-successive winning streak in Tests whilst conferred himself with ‘Man of the Series’!

2003:

Grabbed 2 wickets in the final of 2003 world cup but could not stretch the Aussie win for long. He was given an edge over Kumble that time but the team batting led to sheer disappoint. Later in the year, delay in surgical finger forced him to stay out from competitive cricket for 5-month, which include India’s tour to Australia.

2004:

Returned in Tests against Australia, he managed 21 wickets from 3 matches with an average of 24.00 including three 5-wicket haul. The hot moment arrived in the 4th and final match of the series which ended on day-3 where the Australians strived shabbily in the second inning to 93 all out; Bhajji claimed 5/29 to seal the game which last for 202.1 overs!

2007-2008:

Beginning of Australian downfall at the international arena where lots of whopping controversies took place including Symonds-Bhajji Monkeygate and Ponting’ raised finger. Bhajji, too, no more left a pure cricketer that year; trapped himself with SreeSanth Slapgate during the inaugural season of the IPL.

That year witnessed an all-rounder in Harbhajan’s spinning web – 4 half-century vs Australia in 6 Tests having 23 wickets in the kitty.

2009:

The said to be high time for Harbhajan who was now India’s first choice spinner. Sadly, exit of Kumble from competitive cricket left Bhajji as a failed case. His all-rounding ability derived him for huge sixes instead of trapping batsman with spin tricks. His economy rose-up ahead of pacers while the wickets tally has gone lesser than part-timers. Against Australia in 7-match ODI series, he managed 8 wickets with an Economy of 4.51 where Jadeja accumulated 6 wickets at 4.77.

2010:

First Test series against Australia where Bhajji was in the role of the senior spinner; arrival of next in-line spinners troubled him in the same way like he did during Kumble’s legacy. Kumble didn’t scrabble that time, but Bhajji was found confused. Pragyan Ojha straight away gave him tough competition as Bhajji ended with 11 wickets at 2.68 and Ojha maintained 9 with better ease of economy at 2.57.

2011:

Quite sour and pathetic year not for Harbhajan but for entire team India. His poor form in the recent past dropped him from the team along with some injuries fate.

Although, his career is full of disciplinary action – be it over-appealing to the umpire, snubbed media and photographers, an advert with Royal Stag where he appeared without turban or dispatching aggression after wicket dismissal, Harbhajan’s wicket-taking ability is no more a coincidence.

In the ongoing T20 Word Cup, Bhajji has returned with a bang against the English. His next opponents are the Aussies against whom he had some epic battles and on most occasions Bhajii has been the winner.

It is expected that Bhajji will prove critical against them tomorrow.

What if cricket had the status of soccer, I wonder.. Such numerous playing nations alongside with high profile Leagues and International fixtures, would cricket be less followed than soccer? Moreover, is the game still fascinating you in the same way?

Don’t get tangled, let me explain.

Sri Lanka Premier League: Do we need it? | Planet "M"

Sri Lanka Premier League 2012

This is the 3rd quarter of the year, and once again we’ve authenticated another T20 League to bear. The T20 trend that began with the Bangladesh Premier League in late March, August complemented another Asian child to their sole mother – Indian Premier League. With the Twenty20 Cricket World Cup in line, followed by the 4th edition of Champions League T20 in October; I can hardly see any need of such a tournament.

Isn’t the Lankan board aware of Team India’s fate due to IPL? The entire world has witnessed how pathetically the Indians fell down in the last two T20 World Cups – 2009 and 2010, with Champions status back in 2007.

Prior to the prestigious T20 WC tournament, the Indian players were completely absorbed by a demanding and lucrative T20 league – the IPL, which not only shattered them into the club-pieces, but also gifted ill-affordable fatigue and paid injuries. As a result, the team didn’t even click as a unit; nevertheless there wasn’t enough time to gel up either.

What will happen if the Lankans fair poorly at the T20 WC with due name and fame in front of the home crowd? Would anyone come ahead to take account of failure at the supreme level? Or, does your countryman not care to hold such epic loss?

You know, the Lankans have been continuously playing non-stop cricket since August 2011 – the beginning of their home season. In the recent series against India, they gestured for a needed break. Tired body language, mental fatigue, and drooped shoulders failed to spark a winning spirit as a team.

It’s time to bind your players as a unit instead of stretching them into several colorful outfits to obtain profits. The World Cup is approaching, come on!

What has happened to these cricket boards, I ask vividly. You can’t use talent this way. It is not a way to nourish future cricketers. It’s a good practice to provide a high level cricket environment for adolescents but mind you, they follow where you guide. For them, it is a learning process, not improvising.

Though purposes of such tournaments are to improve and enhance cricket culture within the nation, they need to be done with class. After completion of 5 successful IPL seasons, one can hardly count residing benefits, but many side effects.

It is understandable to follow one’s idea but you’re not forced to follow the same, are you? Can’t they come up with a similar age, or even first class cricketers equation? Just like we have an age restriction formula for several tournaments – under-15, under-17 and under-19 to name a few.

Instead of adding International players of all ages, SLC had new concepts to look at. After all, it is said to be their “domestic tournament”, isn’t it? I won’t blame the BCB and SLC for the concept of BPL and SLPL. The charm and identity IPL has brought to the cricket world at the initial level can attract anyone.

There should be an advancement from traditional methodologies and concepts of learning processes. But at the same time, you need to show concern about the affected budding cricketers. Giving them a T20 environment at an early age won’t save your test cricketers, let me say.

Having many veterans or reckoned international players’ retirement as a new ‘cricket trend’, how would you encourage your boys to play for the nation? Your T20 leagues are already giving them enough advertisement, headlines and livelihood. I’m not saying we need to stop these T20 leagues for the sake of the betterment of cricket. But there should be some provisions and policies which not only provide better cricket conditions for the young guns, but also boost sportsmanship and pride to represent the nation in the international arena.

From 2008 to 2012, we’ve seen three nations came up with separate T20 leagues; wisely tagged under ‘domestic tournament’ to earn world class fame and monetary benefits. And, of course, I won’t surprise with another ‘+1’ !

By the way, would you mind answering me this: with CLT20 established as the ‘battle of the world’s best cricket club’, do we need the T20 World Cup any more? I mean, if every ICC member starts their own T20 league we can hardly have enough time to ‘fit’ the WC there!

Still, I won’t hesitate to ask – can anyone guarantee those documented beliefs and widely spread promises? Can you assure me – by keeping your gems busy, at both International and National Level cricket activities, there will be betterment of cricket instead of cricketers?

Do we badly need a T20 league?

IPL 2012: Sourav Ganguly and IPL - An unlucky chase | Planet "M"

The IPL journey of the fighter from Kolkata

Very few captains from India dared to walk on the water. Very captains from India dared to throw the newball to an unknown youngster; very few dared to encourage the Youngistaan. Very captains in India could be an engineer of the ‘New India.’

He taught his men to get hungry for win, to chase the impossible dreams. He gave them the self-belief to pull matches out of the fire. He never hesitated to make daring decisions. Overall, he was an aggressive Indian skipper and perhaps the only one.

He was none other than our Dada, Sourav Ganguly.

They say name is enough to reckon. I would say ‘Dada’ was enough to ensure the winning mantra.

After retiring from international cricket, Dada started his career in IPL. The prince of Kolkata – Sourav Ganguly is all set to bid adieu from IPL as a player. So far, the glory he has as an International player; sadly IPL draw some poor sketches in the courageous journey of India’s most successful captain in Tests.

Let’s have a look at Dada’s IPL journey so far:

Season 1 –

It was an oomph moment for Kolkata peoples and DADA fans when Kolkata Knight Riders going to be captained by their own local hero. Being stated among the iconic players for IPL-1, it was a big tournament for him after taking retirement from International Cricket in 2008.

He ended the season as top scorer (349 runs from 13 matches) for his side. The combination of Ganguly and Buchanan failed to make any impression on the team standings.

KKR ended their season with 13 points (6 wins, 7 loss, 1 no result) at No. 6.

Such epic performances raised questions over these two think tanks amongst the franchisee. Ganguly was forced to step down as skipper and Buchanan as coach.

As soon as the news flashed in the media, fans started protesting against SRK (Shah Ruk Khan). With knowing people’ s sentiments towards cricket, some reports from Shah Rukh’s resources claimed to change Kolkata Knight Riders to Knight Riders.

After all, what could remain in KKR without Ganguly as skipper!

Season 2 –

Like their owner, KKR always loves to be in lime light. This time, they came up with “multiple captains” theory, courtesy Australian coach – John Buchanan. It was a slight signal from KKR management that they no more want Ganguly as skipper for the side.

Ganguly was kept in the same franchisee but wasn’t respected with skipper’s cap. Brendon McCullum of New Zealand was declared first person for the side, a sharp and calculated move by the KKR think thank. NO?

They knew that this year IPL would be held in South Africa and why they should care about Ganguly! Poor gesture by SRK but what else he could do as an owner! But remember, it’s a business that demand profits and nothing else.

Words with McCullum who was supposed to be bring-it-all man, KKR this time demoted to number 8 in the points tally with 7 points (3 wins, 10 lose, 1 no result).

Like his captain status, in season-2 Dada failed to score enough runs and was dropped to number 3 (189 runs from 13 matches) in the leading KKR batting list.

However, he was introduced to a new kind of KKR venture in 2009. Kolkata began a talent hunt competition named as “Knight and Angels” to select their cheerleaders. For which Dada was appointed as a judge. But the winning team wasn’t allowed to perform in Africa due to the authorities out there.

Season 3 –

In 2010, IPL and DADA both are back to their deserved places. With non-availability of KKRs supposed to be captain – McCullum and Ponting, Ganguly once again given the responsibility to motivate the low-in-confidence side in order to produce better results, Buchanan replaced by Dave Whatmore as the head coach.

With giving full marks to Ganguly as skipper, KKR had an awesome start to the season comparatively to their old track records. Their evergreen stats of being highlighted in controversies - KKR again ended season with spear of thoughts.

But the season-3 had the most controversies – from player auction to franchisee stack, from IPL management to political connections and corruption within league.

But Dada’s performance used to shine brightly and overshadowed everything. He once again not only scored most runs (493 from 14 matches) for KKR but also ended the season as the 4th highest run-getter.

KKR improved their rank from IPL-2, but equalize their stat with season-1 position – summed up at 6th place with 14 points (7 win, 7 lose).

Season 4 –

Leading the side twice with same results, IPL 2011 brought greatest set back for India’s most successful captain. Ganguly remained unsold in the players’ auction. Height of mockery!

Over-aged, fitness issues, inconsistency in performance, conflicts with franchisee owner and coach, continuous downward curve of results – given reasons by the authorities for Ganguly’s omission.

But look at the popularity graph, entire season of IPL-4 he was more in every cricketing conversations rather than the ongoing cricket. Campaign to bring back Dada got hyped. There was hardly anyone who is not aware of it or not be a part of it.

Efforts didn’t go in vain. After lots of hoo-ha, Pune Warriors bought Dada in their squad on May 3, 2011 as a replacement for injured Nehra and then arrived one of the most sentimental moments of cricket.

Dada fan breached security to meet him in the Pune vs. Hyderabad (IPL 2012)

In a match against Hyderabad, a devotee of Dada breached security to touch his feet. It was his comeback match in IPL and fans were equally excited to witness it as much Dada himself.

That’s what we called worship for cricket, a scenario that DADA too will never forget.

Although, Pune Warriors had the brilliance to go a long way in the tournament, but their inconsistency in defeats powered them to 9th place out of 10.

Ganguly too didn’t impress much with given matches and scored 50 runs from 4 matches.

Season 5 –

The Dada fans were waiting for the IPL to watch him playing again and hours before 2012 IPL auction, a statement from Subrata Roy – PWI owner, shook every cricket fan. The press release from franchisee officials claimed to pull back their all stack in IPL and BCCI from the tournament.

It not just halted many cricketers career, but also for Dada who was once again considered in the lime lights. I, too, felt sad with the given mishap. What irony destiny claiming against him, after all.

Is this the price of being a fighter?

But the drama is not yet over.

February 16, 2011 brought smiles as BCCI and Sahara concluded all the difference within themselves and the Pune Warriors were all set to rock in IPL-5.

In the absence of Yuvraj Singh, captaincy once again handed over to Dada. Their beginning of the IPL-5 campaign too was sound. But as soon as the tournament progressed, the Warriors lost their way.

A string of 8 matches defeat shattered all their chances to survive in the IPL, another disappointing season for Dada and somehow, quite enough to take a call on his IPL career.

Sources from Warriors too claimed that this is the last year for Ganguly to play in IPL as a player and he could be appointed mentor of the side for the next season.

Special mention:

‘Apparently, such farewell moments of cricketers strike fans' heart. It’s the only time, when all your efforts honored and appreciated at once without any criticism.

Today, it’s gonna be his last LIVE performance on the field and that too against his own home team - KKR. A journey that began as Knight Rider is about to end as Warrior. Truly suited to his dignity.’

We salute your spirit and enthusiasm towards cricket.

All hail the Prince of Kolkata!