Played in unique conditions following the rampage of the global pandemic (COVID-19), the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year churned out one of the most competitive seasons in the league’s history. Despite the razzmatazz league taking place outside the country, the 13th edition roped in the highest viewership ever.
A season full of entertainment, drama, and emotions concluded with the Mumbai Indians lifting their 5th title. They won back-to-back IPL titles and became the 2nd team to do so after Chennai Super Kings who won consecutively in 2010 and 2011. A low scoring final witnessed a Rohit Sharma classic, brilliant bowling from Trent Boult. For Delhi, the first time IPL finalist, it just didn’t click when it mattered the most.
Let’s take a look back at IPL 2020 yays or nays:
- Mumbai Indians – A big yay: Why? The Rohit Sharma led side started with a loss against CSK in the opener of IPL 2020. After the inaugural game, they didn’t look back. Riding on sheer dominance, they won 9 out of their 14 league games. They went on to win Qualifier 1 of the Playoffs and eventually the final. Mumbai’s team management yet again proved why they are the best. From utilizing their resources to planning tactical changes, the men in blue and gold simply outsmarted all the other teams. A solid middle order, all Indian players in phenomenal form, and all the foreign players contributing consistently were some of the highlights of their campaign.
- Chennai Super Kings – a solid nay: Led by India’s World Cup-winning former skipper, MS Dhoni, CSK always boasted about their experienced team of seniors. However, it seemed to backfire in what turned out to be their worst outing ever in the league. For the first time, they failed to qualify for the playoffs. A team that consists of behemoths like Shane Watson, Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja failed miserably to stay alive for the top 4. While occasional brilliance did show that they still are the best in the business, it just didn’t happen this year for them. Out of 14 league games, they lost 8 and finished the season at the 7th position.
- Going by the faces – an obvious nay: This year’s IPL turned out to be a flop for a handful of big names. On the contrary, there were quite a few new faces who put up a stellar show. Speaking about big names – Glenn Maxwell, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, David Miller, Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins are well known for their brilliance. But it’s about time franchises make their teams going not by faces but by opting for consistency.
