Aakash Chopra questioned Rajasthan Royals’ decision to limit Trent Boult to just two overs, suggesting he could have been used more effectively in exploiting the conditions during their defeat to Gujarat Titans in IPL 2024.
In a surprising upset, Gujarat Titans defeated the top-ranked Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024 at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium. Despite setting a challenging target of 197 runs, GT successfully chased it down.
Aakash Chopra, analyzing the game on his YouTube channel, expressed confusion over RR’s bowling strategy. Chopra questioned why Boult, who conceded just eight runs in two overs, was limited to such a short spell. He suggested that Boult could have been utilized more effectively, particularly during the middle overs, instead of relying heavily on spinners like Keshav Maharaj, who conceded 16 runs in two overs.
“Why did Trent Boult bowl only two overs? I didn’t understand that. Two overs, eight runs, and he bowled only two overs. Why? Keshav gave 16 runs in his two overs, so only 24 runs went in those four overs. Trent Boult could have been given overs in the middle but you didn’t do that. You went towards spinners,” the former India opener said.
“If you are bowling with a dry ball, then if you have scored enough runs, you should have the bowling to defend it. The truth is that Rajasthan has the bowling. They didn’t play Nandre Burger but despite that, they have the bowling. Keshav Maharaj made his debut and they got him to bowl only two overs,” he added.
Reflecting on Rajasthan Royals’ batting performance, Aakash Chopra also praised the dynamic partnership between skipper Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag, which propelled the team to a formidable total of 196/3.
Joining forces at 42/2 after 5.4 overs, Parag contributed significantly with a blistering 48-ball 76, while Samson remained unbeaten on 68 off 38 deliveries. Chopra commended Samson’s elegant and beautiful style of play, noting Parag’s fiery presence at the crease, describing him as more than just a spark but an absolute force to be reckoned with.
Next, the Royals face the Punjab Kings on April 13, while the Titans have a break until April 17, when they clash with the Delhi Capitals.
Last Updated on April 11, 2024
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