'It has actually been a very tricky one' - Vijay Shankar shares insights on new two bouncers per over rule

The introduction of a new rule allowing two bouncers per over in IPL 2024 has added an intriguing tactical dimension to the game according to Gujarat Titans all-rounder Vijay Shankar. While limiting short-pitched bowling appears batter-friendly, Shankar feels it puts pressure on both bowlers and batters to be smart in utilization and preparation.

A member of the Titans since their inception in 2022, Shankar was part of the squad that won the maiden IPL title that year before finishing runners-up in 2023. In the first two matches of the 2024 season, the 33-year-old has scored 18 runs while batting at number 6 and 4.

“It has been a very tricky one, as a bowler, you can’t keep bowling that (bouncers). As a batter, if you set up and hit one or two (boundaries), then for a bowler to go to another plan is not easy. As a bowler, one has to use that in the right way. There are a few grounds in India which are big in terms of square boundaries and on those venues, every fast-bowler will use bouncers,” Shankar said during a virtual press conference.

He added that batters too need to be prepared for anything.“Usually, after the first bouncer is bowled, as a batter, you then become ready to hit the stripes. Now it is that anytime the bouncer can be bowled, or they can even use a slower bouncer. So, we need to be smart as a batting unit and be prepared about the different kinds of deliveries one can face in a game,” Shankar added.

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I can adapt myself in a given situation: Vijay Shankar

Shankar believes his role is to adapt to different batting positions and game situations. “If you see the first game, I batted at number six, and in the second, I batted at number four. For me, it is about adapting to different situations because it is not easy for a player to keep playing up and down, but that is what is expected of me," he said.

“Even last year, I batted at different batting positions and was able to do well for the team. It’s not about where I bat; it’s about whether I can adapt myself in a given situation and if I can take the team to a good position. If I can help the team win one or two from there, then it will be the best thing for me,” he further added.

The veteran praised the leadership of new captain Shubman Gill and head coach Ashish Nehra, highlighting GT's brilliant team environment. “Honestly, it has been one of the best team environments in terms of everything. The way Ashish Nehra deals with every individual in the team is so heartening to see because it’s not easy to give importance to every individual on the side,” he said."

“Honestly, I don’t see a big difference because as players, when you get your role clarity from the support staff, management, and even the captain, it becomes very simple. You just have to go out there and do what is expected of you. Last two years, it was Hardik (Pandya) and now it’s Shubman, so there’s been no difference actually,” he concluded.

Also read: 3 changes Gujarat Titans should make to get back to winning ways

GT won their opening game of the season against Mumbai Indians at home but lost their first away game against Chennai Super Kings. The Shubman Gill-led side is preparing themselves for their third clash against the Sunrisers Hyderabad at home on March 31.