Season 19 - The Pacers have a good thing going....

Over all these seasons, one thing has always been very clear. We care for close games more than anything else. Season 19 teams were designed basis some of the seasoned veterans being split across both teams. And the mistake you often make when HK is on one team is that your over balance in order to make it fair game. 

Now what one does not account for very well is availability of key personal and more importantly players developing new skills that were previously untapped. 

Week 1 of Season 19 started with the Pacers and Aashiqs trading blows and the intensity back after a forgetful Season 18 that was as one sided as can be.  Everyone was again talking about a great season ahead with large turnouts. 

So coming back to the men who have really seized the moment so far and made the Pacers lead 10-2 after 6 games. 

Susmit whenever he has shown up has walked away with MoM performances. He was outstanding with the bat and ball. 

The old war horse Hari seems to have found his love for cricket and life in general. We all hope it just continues because his batting is next level and you almost dont want to say anything more to jinx it. He is hitting the ball longer than ever before and his desire to succeed is almost scary. 

The young turk Ayush is just beyond impressive. He missed a few games because of injury but came back and found a new weapon. Old school left arm spin. Not sure how many of you spotted it but he gave no boundaries away in his 4 over spell today. Quiet, workman like and super effective. 

Having one left armer in your squad is a bonus, having two is like a bounty. Dinesh came in as a hard hitting batter but its his bowling and the unplayable lengths that have been wonderous. And dont forget his fielding and superlative catching. He was interestingly a player both squads almost missed picking but the Pacers are blessed having him. 

Aproov started the season saying he was not valued enough. He has been the catalyst for the Pacers with both bat and ball. Its amazing what a little confidence does. Fully committed cricketer and great team man. 

We dont speak enough of Kiran but he has had such a solid season with the bat. Will do anything for the team with zero ego but his batting has gone to the next level. Today he was standing a foot outside the crease and smoking it. You can never have enough of Kiran on your team. 

Gopi and Raghu have been the most solid openers you can have, that set the stage for the explosivity to follow. Gopi is just a super keen reader of the game and is always present. Raghu can drop anchor and soak in pressure like no one can. Together they are impregnable. 

And finally Vicky. Always high on energy. Always in control and adds so much to the team by just being there. The way he marshals the field and pushes the team is just outstanding. 

Ahaan is now believing in himself more and I personally hope he continues doing that. 

KG, please get back to being your effervescent self. We need that. Your catch today was a glimpse of the magic only you can do. 

Vikram has been fully involved with the team. His old habits are not gone but when he is on the ground he is 200% on. 

HK....had to leave the best for last. As a team we want to win without him and I think he is happy we win without him too. Cant say more. 

You guys have been amazing. I am sorry I wrote this so that I could read it in 10 years and maybe again in 20..