Hindustan Times ST (Mumbai)

Shikhar always gets unfair scrutiny: Moody

- HT Correspond­ent

Shikhar Dhawan went through a tough phase last year The stylish left-handed opener saw his position in the nationa side become uncertain after some inconsiste­nt form.

However, Dhawan has not let negativity affect his performanc­e in the IPL . The Delhi player is currently fourth in the top run scorers’ list with 341 runs from nine matches. He has also scored two half centuries. This comes after some good showing in other domestic tournament­s.

Dhawan’s performanc­e was praised by Sunrisers Hyderabad coach Tom Moody on Monday “Shikhar, according to me, has always got unfair scrutiny. He has played a significan­t part for Sunrisers Hyderabad. His per formance last year was one of the reasons we played in the final,” said Moody.

“You compare him with any other opener, he is among the best and does consistent­ly well. Yes his strike rate is not 150. But he provides balance to the side.”

“The partnershi­p between David (Warner) and Shikhar is a significan­t one. It has been the most potent opening attack in the IPL and they complement each other. But you will always have a more naturally dominant player who can decimate any attack And David showed just that against KKR,” said Moody.

“But if you have two opener who are going hammer and tongs then things will fall apart and Shi khar has balanced that pretty well for us.”

Moody also lauded Bhuvnesh war Kumar, who is currently the leading wicket-taker with 20 scalps. “His economy in the last over is around 7, which is great in T20 cricket. He has the ability to strike regularly and is among the top few bowlers when it comes to death bowling,” said Moody.

“There are only few bowlers who can bowl wide yorkers con sistently as him He and Jasprit

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