‘FraserBerserk’ for Delhi
Australian batting sensation Jake Fraser-McGurk has sent a brutally blunt statement to T20I selectors, bludgeoning a blistering IPL innings that left commentators and fans in awe.
Fraser-McGurk on Saturday produced his third – and best – half-century for the Delhi Capitals yet, smashing 84 runs off just 27 balls in an innings that included 11 fours and six sixes.
The 22-year-old was seemingly eyeing off Chris Gayle’s record for the fastest ever IPL century (off 30 balls), but was caught at deep mid-wicket 16 runs short.
He reached his 50 off just 15 balls – the equal second quickest half-century by an Australian in T20 cricket.
“This guy is something else,” commentator Sanjay Manjrekar said. “He thinks ‘maximum’ every ball … and lets his bat do the talking. It’s all handeye co-ordination.”
Fraser-McGurk’s first two IPL half-centuries – 55 against Lucknow Super Giants and 65 against Sunrisers Hyderabad – came batting at No.3.
But the Victorian played with incredible presence, power and authority opening the innings this time.
He said it was pleasing to set the tone for his side.
“That’s my role: go out there and try and score as many in the first six (overs) – and if I go on with it, I go on with it,” Fraser-McGurk said. “Trying to get the team off to a nice start, so it was good I was able to do that today.
“I feel like it’s something I’ve always had, just getting that base right.
“That took me a few years to develop and having the right stance for me, so just trying to stay as still as possible.”