Anurag Kumar
Mayank Markande, a leg-spinner for Punjab, has found this Indian Premier League (IPL) to be odd. Despite bowling googlies and taking 10 wickets, the form of his team, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), has been declining. On Saturday, Markande’s bowling and reflex capture resulted in the dismissal of Delhi Capitals (DC) opener Phil Salt after a 35-ball 59 that turned the tide at Ferozeshah Kotla.
Markande ended the 112-run partnership between Salt and Mitch Marsh, paving the way for SRH’s nine-run victory.Also, Markande dismissed Priyam Garg for 12 runs. His wickets have been taken at a respectable economy under seven.
“I am pleased with my bowling, particularly my goolies. I had a fantastic domestic season playing for Punjab in all formats, and I am able to continue that form into the international stage. Domestic contests are extremely competitive. I suppose that has helped me acquire confidence and be well-prepared for the IPL,” said the 25-year-old, who played his lone T20 game in 2018 following an impressive stint with Mumbai Indians in the 2018 IPL.
Markande, who transferred from DC to Rajasthan Royals, did not receive many opportunities, as leg-spinners Rahul Chahar and Rahul Tejasvi were preferred. In his first season in 2018, he participated in 14 contests and claimed 15 victims. In the subsequent three seasons, he only got to play three (2019), one (2021), and two (2022) games.
ALSO READ :Russian freight train exploded near Ukraine border, 2nd in a week.
Markande has appeared in six of SRH’s eight matches this season due to the management’s confidence in him. Muttiah Muralitharan, a spinner from Sri Lanka, has also played a crucial role.
“His presence has benefited me tremendously. He does not demand a great deal of change in terms of his abilities, but he works diligently on tactical adjustments. Markande, who had a fantastic first game of the season against Punjab Kings, claiming 4/15 in Hyderabad to restrict PBKS to 143/9 and help SRH win by eight wickets, said his coach emphasizes mental preparation and mindset.
Ambati Rayudu of the Chennai Super Kings was bamboozled by his googly delivery. The veteran coach Munish Bali stated, “His form this IPL season has been outstanding. In previous seasons, due to a paucity of opportunities, he was unable to garner much attention. However, SRH is supporting him, and he is not disappointing them. He is currently one of the finest spinners in India.In addition, he has diligently worked on his batting abilities. He is aware that one must be a versatile player in order to receive more opportunities.
Bali persuaded Markande to transition from medium-pace to spin bowling.
“His bowling has been very consistent, particularly his goolies. Exceptionally acute, dexterous, and quick. It is now challenging for the batters to decipher them. He understands what he must do to return to national prominence, and he is doing just that. Regarding his catching abilities, he is exceptional,” said Bali, referring to Markande’s sharp capture against DC to remove Salt.
