Not much power in Powerplays

The two bowling Powerplays in the fifth ODI yielded the least runs in this series. India, from 71 for no loss after 15 overs, lost three wickets for only 10 runs in the five overs of bowling Powerplay on Sunday. Somshuvra Laha reports.

The two bowling Powerplays in the fifth ODI here yielded the least runs in this series. India, from 71 for no loss after 15 overs, lost three wickets for only 10 runs in the five overs of bowling Powerplay on Sunday.

England were 131 for one but lost four wickets for 10 runs in that phase. With only three players allowed outside the 30-yard circle during Powerplays, the batsmen have ample chance to free their arms. And the ICC wants to capitalise on it and make the 15-40 overs more exciting. But it seems teams are not willing to risk all in the batting Powerplay since 10 overs remain after that. The bowling Powerplay especially has found few takers in this series. The 35 runs England scored off their bowling Powerplay in the third ODI at Mohali was the highest in this series.

Former Mumbai coach Praveen Amre said: "Teams would always want to have as many wickets in hand as possible when going for the slog."

Former national selector and wicketkeeper Kiran More told HT: "Overall, the batsmen have done fairly well during Powerplays but kudos to the English for bowling well. Sadly, the wickets in India have not allowed them to be effective."