TATA IPL 2023 IS BACK - WHAT TO EXPECT!
Lights, Camera, Action! TATA IPL is back, the most awaited, glamorous, and hyped cricketing event in the world. Like every year, TATA IPL seems to get bigger and better, and this year is no different. With less than 30 days to go, let’s look at what this season has in store for the cricket fans.
2023 Auction
The buzz started with the recently concluded mini-auction, which saw exciting talents going under the hammer, and teams engaging in a mega-bidding war. Some more records were broken in the process!
Sam Curran became the most expensive buy ever in the history of IPL, returning to his old home, Punjab Kings, who paid a whopping 18.5 crores for the English bowling all-rounder.
That was just the start. Cameron Green became the 2nd highest-paid player in the IPL, with Mumbai Indians splashing 17.5 crores for the Australian all-rounder.
Chennai Super Kings bought Ben Stokes for Rs. 16.25 crore, becoming CSK’s most expensive player ever, and the third-highest bid ever in IPL history.
Lucknow Super Giants put in a surprise bid for Nicolas Pooran, paying 16 crores for the Windies international, making him the most expensive wicketkeeper in the IPL.
Looking at the mighty figures, Sunrisers Hyderabad seems to have cracked the best deal. They signed the swashbuckling opener from England, Harry Brook, for 13.2 crores, a batter who is currently giving his opposition many sleepless nights.
Introduction of Impact Player Rule
IPL 2023 will see an introduction of a new rule called Impact Player. Under this rule, each team will name four substitutes in addition to the playing XI at the toss, and only one of them can be used as an Impact Player during the match. Both teams can use only one Impact Player. The move isn’t mandatory. A captain can introduce the Impact Player before the start of innings, at the end of an over, and at the fall of a wicket or when a batter retires. The rule further states that the replaced player will play no further part in the game, not even as a substitute fielder.
It will be exciting to see how teams use this new rule strategically to get ahead in the game.
Teams to Watch Out For
Gujarat Titans
The defending champions beat all odds last year to win the trophy in their debut season. A fine balance of tactics and leadership saw them go all the way in 2022. They are expected to continue their solid display this season and will be touted as one of the favorites to win the trophy. A well-oiled and balanced squad with Hardik Pandya leading a confident team, Gujarat Titans is the team to watch out for
Key Players: Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan, Shubhman Gill, David Miller
Rajasthan Royals
Last year’s runner-ups, Rajasthan Royals boasts a balanced and strong squad. A perfect blend of youth and experience, the Royals looked like they had finally arrived in last year’s IPL. With Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswa l, Yuzevendra Chahal, Trent Boult, and Ravi Ashwin in the mix, the Royals look frightening and would test the nerves of any opposition. They will want to go one step further with their second place last year and have all the credentials to do so.
Key Players: Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, Yuzevendra Chahal, Trent Boult
Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians had a strong identity of being the best IPL team before Gujarat Titans knocked them off their throne. Mumbai Indians had a forgettable IPL in the 2022 edition. With a change in team and style of play, they failed to replicate their previous form and thus came out with a sub-par performance.
However, it's no secret that Rohit Sharma’s credentials as a captain and player are unmatched. He will be itching to get back strong. With the acquisition of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green and Jofra Archer’s expected return, the Mumbai Indians will feel confident again. If they get their rhythm back, one can never count them off.
Key Players: Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Cameron Green, Jofra Archer
Where to Watch?
The IPL 2023 returns on March 31 and once again promises to entertain the cricket fans. Watch the best T20 event at the best destination with Sling TV! Catch all the action live on Willow HD with Sling TV at the best price of $7 for the first month.