Those deliveries are not called wides, but if a batter misses those attempted shots they are called wides, which is really strangling the quick bowlers. The good batters will actually use it to score runs as we have seen with the hook shot, the ramp shot or the upper cut. Most quick bowlers are going to get the ball just above the batter’s head in any case. A bouncer should be called a wide only if it is way above the batter’s head. The definition of a wide for a bouncer is also not in favour of a good short-pitched delivery, so the bowlers can often feel that they are bowling with one hand tied behind their backs. This shorter format is extremely tough on the bowlers, with short boundaries and big bats, and it is not fair to be harsh on them. On most occasions, they flatter to deceive with the odd six or two but unable to take their team over the finish line. This is where the so-called big hitters are supposed to earn the mega bucks they are given. The net run-rate can come into play more towards the later half of the tournament when there is usually a gap between the top two teams on the points table and the others looking to finish third and fourth. Sure, the net run-rate is important to be aware of, but the first priority always has to be to win the match and get the points. Whether it is pressure or the urge to be a hero, players go for the big shots when a couple of sensible, less risk shots can win the game. Lucknow was in a healthy position with nine wickets in hand and 31 runs needed with six overs to go. The best example was the reigning champions Gujarat stopping the Lucknow team from chasing 130, the lowest total defended in the tournament so far.

While the first week of the tournament saw teams that were set a target winning most of the matches, the next round saw teams batting first defending even small totals. Sachin Tendulkar: Modern cricket has changed batting completely

Just let go courtney walsh