The ongoing IPL 2024 has seen a significant rule change aimed at balancing the contest between powerful batsmen and often-beleaguered bowlers. Pacers can now unleash two bouncers per over, a move that has sparked debate within the cricketing fraternity. Gujarat Titans all-rounder Vijay Shankar, a player who has experienced both sides of the coin, believes the new rule presents a strategic challenge for both bowlers and batsmen.
“It’s actually quite tricky,” Vijay Shankar said in a virtual press conference. “As a bowler, you can’t just keep bowling bouncers. If a batsman picks those off for a boundary or two, it becomes difficult for the bowler to switch plans effectively.”
Shankar highlights the importance of using the bouncer judiciously, especially on grounds with large boundaries. “There are a few grounds in India with massive square boundaries, and on those pitches, every fast bowler will be tempted to use the bouncer,” he observed.
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However, the two-bouncer rule isn’t just about bowlers adapting their strategies. Batsmen, too, need to be prepared for a wider variety of deliveries.
“Traditionally, after facing the first bouncer, batsmen would adjust their approach to target boundaries,” Vijay Shankar explained. “Now, with the bouncer being a possibility at any point, batsmen need to be much sharper. They have to be ready to face not just the bouncer but also slower variations.”
Bowlers have been allowed two bouncers in an over in IPL 2024 but they must use it the right way, feels Gujarat Titans allrounder Vijay Shankar
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Shankar, who has batted at both number 4 and number 6 for the Titans so far this season, emphasizes the importance of flexibility for modern batsmen.
“It’s not about the specific batting position,” he clarifies. “It’s about adapting to the situation and taking the team forward. Whether I bat at number 4 or number 6, the key is to be flexible and contribute meaningfully.”
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Viajy Shankar highlights the need to adjust batting techniques based on the position and the match situation. “If you’re batting anywhere between number 4 and 7, you need to be adaptable. You might need to play a more aggressive role at number 4, while number 6 or 7 might require a more cautious approach depending on the score and wickets remaining.”
Looking beyond the new rule and his own batting role, Shankar expressed his confidence in the leadership of the new Gujarat Titans captain, Shubman Gill.
“Honestly, there hasn’t been a drastic change in terms of captaincy,” Vijay Shankar said. “When players receive clear communication regarding their roles from the management and captain, it simplifies things. Last year, it was Hardik Pandya, and now it’s Shubman. Both have provided excellent leadership.”
Shankar also praised the team environment fostered by head coach Ashish Nehra. “It’s one of the best team environments I’ve been a part of,” he said. “The way Ashish Nehra deals with each player is truly commendable. It’s not easy to ensure everyone feels valued, but he manages it exceptionally well.”
“Whether it’s a senior player, a young IPL debutant, or anyone in between, everyone is treated equally in this team environment,” Vijay Shankar added. “That’s been a hallmark of the Gujarat Titans for the past three years, and it’s a big reason for our success.”
The Titans, currently boasting a win and a loss, will face the Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next match at their home ground in Ahmedabad on March 31st. With the two-bouncer rule adding a new layer of strategy to the game, this encounter promises to be a thrilling battle between bat and ball.
