I have always believed that sitting behind deep mid-wicket or deep extra cover is the best way to watch cricket. From this vantage point, you can sense the speed of the bowler’s run-up, see the delivery stride, and witness the batsman’s technique as they face the ball. This perspective captures the essence of the game in both its leisurely and ebullient forms.

Reflecting on my experiences watching Ranji Trophy matches at the Kotla in Delhi and the Wankhede in Mumbai, I have observed the evolution of cricket from a serene setting to a fast-paced spectacle. The contrast between traditional formats and the glitz of T20 cricket was highlighted recently with the success of the Indian team in the World T20 and Jammu & Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy win.

As we navigate through this unique cricket season, it is essential to recognize the distinctiveness of T20 and longer formats. Players like Auqib Nabi, who excelled in the Ranji Trophy, deserve recognition for their performances in the Test squad, without being overshadowed by the glamour of the IPL. It is crucial for selectors to value consistent performances in domestic competitions to maintain the integrity of the Ranji Trophy and uphold the essence of cricket in all its forms.

Follow Franchise Cricket for more IPL news.