I have enjoyed watching the Indian Premier League, this spring. Some of the matches I have seen so far have been one-sided, but there is always something going on, and some of the techniques on display are spectacular.
Watching the master classes from the Little Master really demonstrates the benefits of a sound, bascially orthodox approach to batting, even in the shortest form of the game. With not a hint of a slog, Sachin scores as fast as most, and more reliably than almost anyone. A great example to young players.
I have been less convinced by some of the seam bowling I have seen. Slower balls, changes of line and length, variations a-plenty [including wides, full tosses...] - I wonder if the game-plan might benefit from a (slightly) more conservative approach?
Watching the slow bowlers, several of whom have been very successful in this year's IPL, you do get to appreciate the subtleties of the spinners art. Yes, they vary their pace and bowl their wrong-uns, top spinners, doosras and sliders, but all within a tightly controlled range.
Lots to enjoy, and lots of lessons to learn.
