The world cup has kicked off around the same time when many people started questioning the relevance of the 50 over format. Two weeks into the tournament, the future of the 50 over format seems secure (doubters can ask the English skipper Andrew Strauss). Apart from a few inconsequential matches, we’ve had our first upset, first tie, the fastest century (still blown away by Kevin O’ Brien’s innings), the most successful run chase in a world cup.
I personally feel that 50 over cricket offers teams many more opportunities to get back into a game vis-à-vis the 20 over format. A few good overs for either side can change the balance. The India-England tie is a case in point. The match swung in favour of India in the 42nd over and by the 49th over it was out of our hands again. The addition of the Batting Power Play has also played a key role in keeping the excitement of the format. It should ideally used by the batting side to push the batting side to put the game beyond the opposition. However it’s increasingly seen by the bowling side as an opportunity to pick up a few wickets and change the balance of the game.
Let’s hope the world cup is able to sustain this level of excitement. There’s nothing like a successful tournament that puts to rest the doubts about the future of the 50 over format.
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