SURE, the T20 version of the game has its haters, but there’s something somewhat irresistible about the IPL.
Yes, there are some annoying things – like commentators calling sixes ‘maximums’ – and other such commercial commentating.
But that aside, it does see the world’s best short-version cricketers producing their best, and sometimes worst, in the Bollywood meets cricket cauldron.
The stadiums come alive like (arguably) no other venues in the world.
After the breath-taking final at last Sunday’s T20 World Cup, where the West Indies defeated England in borderline miraculous fashion, it’s hard to argue against the excitement the game provides.
Yes, it’s not the purest form of the game, and yes, luck plays a role.
But come on… are you still using your landline and refusing to use a cellphone? Or travelling to work on a horse when cars are available?
It’s the way cricket is. Just enjoy it. Ultimately it’s really all about the competition. How long it takes doesn’t really matter.
One of the great things about IPL is that the ‘overseas’ players are pitted with and/or against their own teammates.
For example, AB de Villiers gets to bat with Chris Gayle for the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
It’s wonderful for the camaraderie in the game.
It should be noted that Chennai Super Kings are not in the tournament, due to various off-field issues.
MS Dhoni and company are now playing for the Rising Pune Supergiants.
There are a lot of South African players involved, in the following teams.
Delhi Daredevils: Quinton de Kock, JP Duminy, Imran Tahir, Albie Morkel, Chris Morris.
Gujarat Lions: Dale Steyn.
Kings XI Punjab: David Miller, Kyle Abbott, Farhaan Behardien.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Morné Morkel.
Mumbai Indians: Marchant de Lange.
Rising Pune Supergiants: Faf du Plessis.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: AB de Villiers, David Wiese.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: None.
