IPL 2026 | 'Adapt and adjust': Lockie Ferguson to bowlers as run-fests continue
IPL-2026 is witnessing unprecedented run-fests, with scores of 200+ becoming routine due to flat pitches and the Impact Player rule. Bowlers like Lockie Ferguson acknowledge the need to adapt, while Muttiah Muralitharan suggests entertainment drives these batting-friendly conditions. Ferguson also shared his personal choice to prioritize family over early IPL participation.
MUMBAI: IPL-2026 will be chronicled as relentless run-fests. Scores of 200 and even 220-plus are no longer exceptional. They are routinely chased down, prompting concerns that the balance has tilted heavily towards batters.
Flat pitches, coupled with the Impact Player rule, have deepened batting line-ups to No. 8 or 9, leaving bowlers with shrinking margins for error. Recent games underline the trend.
Punjab Kings chased down a staggering 265 against Delhi Capitals in Delhi, while Sunrisers Hyderabad made light work of 244 against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede. On surfaces offering little assistance, bowlers have been forced to rethink their approach. Punjab Kings and New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson believes adapting, not complaining, is the way forward.
“Coming into the tournament, you know it’s going to be high-scoring. Curators are preparing fantastic wickets, and the batting talent in India keeps improving. Every year, new players emerge who can play all the shots,” Ferguson said on Saturday.