The imbalance in ODI cricket

Virat Kohli

Another score of above 300. Another India chase. Another Kohli special. Another India win. Sigh.

Who wants to be a bowler in this world?

The bats have become enormously bigger, the boundary lines have invaded the ground, bouncers are restricted, only four fielders are allowed outside the circle, there is 20 overs of powerplay, the pitches have lost its venom, reverse swing has been taken out of the equation by two new balls and the benefit of the doubt still goes to the batsman.

Isn’t cricket a game between bat and ball? Where is the contest these days?

Ball beating the bat can be as beautiful as a Kohli flick. A bouncer aimed for the throat can have the same effect of a Gayle’s demoralising blow. After some years, the real bowling will be extinct. What will prevail is cutters, slower balls bouncers, and wide Yorkers. No youngster will ever be encouraged to deceive the batsman in flight.

Will the administrators care about cricket for once? It’s time to restore the balance.

The boundaries can be made longer so that the fielders can prove their worth. It will also keep batsman looking for extra runs. Spinners will be motivated to toss the ball above the eye line. Spectators will enjoy the contest. Who wants a lopsided battle?

Increasing the maximum number of overs for a couple of bowlers to 12 will be an innovation that will be welcoming. The best bowlers will have the edge. The captain will also become important in deciding where and when to use his best bowlers.

Instead of two new balls or reducing the number of fielders outside the circle, there can be numerous changes that could be made in favour of bowlers and cricket.

But who will do it? Is cricket really a batsman’s game?