Kiwi leggie’s about-turn Sodhi has twist in his wrist
Australia’s Big Bash League gets a bad rap as a slogathon which favours batsmen. Pitches are sterilised, fielding restrictions imposed and boundary ropes moved in to encourage the batting adventure the crowds love.
While purists sneer at the bogan entertainment, they have to salute the financial attraction of guaranteed results as competitors show off their stunning collection of athletic talents and skill.
For those of us this side of the Tasman, there was a special glow this week as leg-spinner Ish Sodhi took six for 11 in a tick over three overs in his final game for the Adelaide Thunder.
It was a massive fillip for the 24-year-old, who had struggled with his form before making some headway here in the T20s with Bangladesh. Playing for the Thunder has helped to burnish that belief.
Encouragement from experienced skipper Brad Hodge about bowling in different conditions and conversations with former Aussie leggie Stuart MacGill bulked up Sodhi’s confidence.
He’d not had the control and bite he wanted in his deliveries until an intensive week bowling in the Big Bash reconfigured Sodhi’s confidence in his ability.
“Just to sit down with him [MacGill] was inspiring. He didn’t have to say much — he did tell me a lot, which was great — but just being in his presence was amazing.
“He’s a guy who gave me something to look up to when I was younger and something to look forward to. He taught me a lot and hopefully I can continue to make him proud.”
The New Zealand selectors should cash in on the leg-spinner’s renewed assurance and get him in to the squads for