Aussies in command
Manoj Madhavan -
Friday, May 16, 2008 7:42 PM
The Australians have stood out in the IPL, so far.
Although Adam Gilchrist, Shane Warne and McGrath have retired from international cricket, there’s been no slip in their commitment and enthusiasm. Country cousins Mathew Hayden, Andrew Symonds and Michael Hussey, who are still playing for Australia, have performed equally well in IPL matches. Youngsters such as David Hussey and Shaun Marsh have not yet made it to the Australian squad but have been match winners for their respective IPL teams.
On the other side are the South Africans whose performance, to put it politely, has been disappointing. Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Mark Boucher, AB de Villiers, etc. all failed to live up to the expectations.
Among the New Zealanders, Brendon McCullum's 158 in the opening match is the only saving grace.
Sri Lankan’s performance has been mixed. While Chaminda Vaas and Mahela Jayawardane disappointed fans, Farveez Mahroof, Tilakaratne Dilshan, Muthiah Murlitharan and, of course, Sanath Jayasurya emerged as the bright spots.
Barring Shoaid Akhtar's match winning debut even Pakistani players haven't lived up to their expections (specially Shahid Afridi).
The performances over the past few matches, would, to a large extent decide the bids at the next auction. Aussies would, most likely, command the highest prize for their continued commitment and aggression in the game.
Among Indians, players such as Shikhar Dhawan, Abhishek Nayar, Manpreet Dony and Ashok Dinda would figure high in the preference list of team owners. Such players would be favoured over the likes of Wasim Jaffer, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Mohammad Kaif (most expensive player for Rajasthan Royals), Parthiv Patel and Ajit Agarkar.