IPL 2024: Big scores spark Gavaskar's call for larger boundaries, suggests BCCI to support bowlers

Gavaskar to BCCI: Increase boundary sizes

IPL 2024 will be remembered as a high-scoring season, with batters dominating the games. Teams have surpassed the 200-run mark 15 times, and five innings have even crossed the 250-run threshold. Sunrisers Hyderabad have been particularly explosive, achieving scores over 250 on three occasions, including their match against Delhi Capitals on Saturday at Arun Jaitley Stadium.

In that IPL game, SRH amassed 266/7 in 20 overs, with an astonishing 125 runs in the powerplay. Travis Head set the pace with a blistering 16-ball 50, finishing with 89 off just 32 balls.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has expressed concerns about this trend and recommended to the BCCI ways to better support bowlers.

In conversation with India cricket legend Anjum Chopra, Sunil Gavaskar suggested that boundary ropes could be moved further back, particularly at smaller venues. He highlighted the gap between the advertising boards and the fence marking the beginning of the stands.

He stated that he would not recommend changing cricket bats since they comply with regulations. However, he has long advocated for increasing boundary sizes at all venues. He pointed out that on this ground, there's enough space to extend the boundary by a few metres, which could make the difference between a catch and a six. By moving the LED or advertising boards back, the boundary rope could be extended by 2-3 metres, offering bowlers better protection.

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar expressed concerns about the current state of T20 cricket, stating that excessive power-hitting can become monotonous over time. He noted the lack of contest between batters and bowlers, likening the recent T20 games to practice sessions where players swing their bats carelessly. Gavaskar acknowledged the initial excitement of such hitting but believes it quickly loses its appeal, opting not to use stronger language to describe his dissatisfaction.