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What is the parameter that is used to judge the best pitch and ground award in the IPL? Is it based on the runs scored in the season? Is it equated with how many fours and sixes are struck this season? Is it the advantage that is offered to the bowlers?
The 2024 edition of the IPL, which recorded 1260 sixes, has raised the bar so high that every staging venue, except Hyderabad, got Rs 25 lakh each for making pitches which were conducive for a deluge of sixes. Hyderabad took the cake as it got Rs 50 lakh for winning the top award.
If the number of runs scored in the T20 matches is the criterion, does Arun Jaitley Stadium deserve it more than Uppal Stadium?
Of the 13 venues, Arun Jaitley Stadium has the best numbers. Delhi has the best first innings score of 235.20. Even in the second innings, Delhi has 211.20 average runs. Comparatively, Hyderabad has a first-innings total average of 204.66 and 194.16 when chasing.
If the consistency of bounce also gets points from the match-referees, Eden Gardens can’t be left behind.
Kolkata has also produced belters, and no one can deny that, as runs came thick and fast. Like other venues, the high percentage of runs came in the first innings compared to the second innings.
The difference between the average scores inside the big Modi stadium is well-balanced. If the average score in the first was 172.5, the second inning average was 170.25.
The home for Punjab Kings, Mullanpur, had a narrow difference between the first (167.4) and second innings (167.60).
Ironically, the IPL final venue – Chennai’s Chepauk – has the worst numbers. The first innings average score is 169.88 while in the second it dips to 152. (Stats from Rajesh Kumar)
