Professional sport is a tough arena where only the best equipped survive. It requires tremendous amount of self confidence to walk back into the field with the held high after being mauled badly on the previous occasion.
Though they were both left-arm orthodox spin bowlers, they were as different a chalk and cheese.
Shepherd, Ashutosh and Shashank were not exactly household names before this IPL commenced but they have, through their exploits with the willow during the last fortnight, become popular with fans of the game across the country.
It may be better to allow him to get some more to get some more exposure at the first-class level before being pushed into the high pressure arena of international cricket.
The wicketkeeper-batter has got back to peak physical fitness in the shortest possible time.
Even though Dhoni has stepped down as captain of CSK, his close association with the franchisee and city is set to continue uninterrupted in the years ahead.
Pant’s return will certainly bolster the fortunes of DC.
Bazball did not fail as a strategy but it could not yield desired results as the England batters were not technically equipped to handle the Indian bowlers.
The next target on his horizon will be Kumble’s Indian record of 619 Test wickets.
He will also do well not to fall for phrases like 'Jaisball' style, as the same critics who have coined this and are singing his praises today will be in forefront to rubbish him and ask for his head.
It will be a tragedy of epic proportions if his career suffers an early demise due to mismanagement and excess workload.
The loss in the final will rankle the youngsters who are part of the squad. But they should take heart from the fact that they got an invaluable exposure which will stand them in good stead in their future careers.