Friday, December 14, 2007

Semi-Final 1: The Trump Cards


The Superstars and Tigers will give it their all, in an attempt to clinch a final berth in the inaugural season of the ICL Indian 20:20 Championship. Taking into account the recent turn of events, there are a few players who are expected to create the biggest impact.

Ian Harvey (Chennai Superstars)
| Matches: 5 | Runs: 207 | Average: 51.75 | SR: 126 |

The multitalented Aussie will hope to set the pace for his team when the essential rematch against the Kolkata Tigers gets under. He is expected to play a crucial role, may it be with bat or ball.

* Has emerged as the highest run-scorer of the tournament.
* Versatile all-rounder – Opens the bowling and batting for Superstars.
* Has smashed 8 sixes at the event.



Craig McMillan (Kolkata Tigers)
| Matches: 5 | Runs: 182 | Average: 45.5 | SR: 141 |

The captain of the Kolkata Tigers has led from the front to steer his team to victories from tricky situations. He is an impact player and can give the Superstars the knock out punch when the teams collide.

* Second highest run-scorer of the tournament.
* 11 massive sixes to entertain the crowds – more than anyone so far.
* Always amongst the wickets too, leading from the front.



Abishek Jhunjhunwala (Kolkata Tigers)
| Matches: 5 | Runs: 126 | Average: 25 | SR: 135 |

The promising young player has been a steady number three batsman, chipping away with crucial knocks in four of the five matches. He is the pin up boy of the league and will hope to continue prop up McMillan and co.

* Has hit his straps with good quality knocks in the last two matches.
* Eighth highest run-scorer, second highest for Tigers.
* Lively player – great fielder, runner between the wickets.



Thiru Kumaran (Chennai Superstars)
| Matches: 4 | Wickets: 10 | Average: 10.5 | BB: 6/21 |

In a format that was initially touted as a batsman friendly setup, Thiru Kumaran has emerged as one of the most effective bowlers in the tournament. The veteran Chenani bowler has bowled sensibly, using plenty of variations.

* Highest wicket-taker of the tournament – 10 wickets.
* Experienced veteran, bowling leg-cutters and slower deliveries.
* Didn’t play in game 1 against Tigers, could prove to be surprise element.



Lance Klusener (Kolkata Tigers)
| Matches: 5 | Wickets: 9 | Average: 11.5 | BB: 3/16 |

Started unhurriedly but has picked up the momentum with the course of the tourney. ‘Zulu’ has played a few match-winning knocks already and has been the perfect first change bowler for the Kolkata Tigers. Is a power player and is capable of influencing match single-handedly.

* Has maintained an impressive economy rate of 6.10
* A perfect finisher, courtesy of his lusty hitting.
* Vast experience of playing in previous semi-finals.


Source : http://www.indiancricketleague.in/

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