Howdy, fellas! Sunscreen’s back out—it’s time to battle the summer heat.

Spring always hits me with a wave of nostalgia. I remember racing home after cricket, face drenched in sweat, clothes covered in dust, and a chilled mango shake waiting in the fridge. I'd rush to switch on the TV, buzzing with excitement for the day's IPL match—only to hear my mom yell, “Change your clothes first, you mannerless idiot!”

I like to think I’ve grown up since then. But my love for the IPL? It’s only multiplied. And that got me thinking—what are some common trends from past IPL seasons?

#1 Nail-biting drama

IPL is notorious for producing highly competitive (no surprise) cricket matches. The league’s success is majorly down to high drama, sea-saw battles between the teams. Whether you religiously support a side or not, it will keep you on the edge of your seat. It will be nothing less than spectacular this year too.

#2 It’s a batter’s game innuendo

T20 cricket’s nature no doubt favours the batter. Every year a debate re-sparks around keeping a balance between batting and bowling, especially after a high-scoring match where bowlers are mere spectators. It’s a truth we should accept sooner rather than later. Say what you will quality bowlers still find the way to dominate 7 out of 10 times.

#3 Fan’s War on Social Media

Some of the meme worthy content produced by fans and social media accounts deserves praise. Fans are the heart of any sport, but some take things too far, projecting their frustrations onto players. Do yourself a favour—avoid the toxic debates, endless trolling, and unnecessary hot takes.

#4 Rcb mathematics class

RCB in the past 17 seasons has done more for mathematics in India than many teachers. Somehow, they find themselves in a position where they must rely on arithmetic equations to make the playoffs, all sorts of different permutations and combinations come into play for the race of playoffs. Jokes aside, kudos to the burgeoning RCB fan community for supporting the franchise even without a title.

#5 MSD’s last ball six

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's popularity is no hidden truth. His one look is enough to give goosebumps to his die-hard fans. Yippee ki-yay monstrous sixes. Every year, fans wait just to watch him bat, even if it’s only for a few deliveries. If this really is his farewell season, soak in every moment.

#6 The next big thing

One of the IPL’s greatest gifts? Discovering raw talent. India’s insane squad depth is largely thanks to this league. I can’t wait to see the fresh faces lighting up the stage this season. And in case you missed it—there’s a 13-year-old in Rajasthan Royals’ squad. Insane. Oh, and let’s not forget the redemption arcs of seasoned pros.

#7 Controversies

IPL and controversies are a package deal—on-field spats, umpiring blunders, off-field scandals, you name it. While the league has cleaned up its act in recent years, making it more professional and globally respected, not really. Case in point: the BCCI dropped new rules just 48 hours before the season opener. Plenty of time to prepare, right?

The return of saliva on the ball—didn’t feel right writing this sentence. Meanwhile, the introduction of two new balls (second one after 10 overs) in the second innings for night matches (depending on the umpire’s directive) has given new-ball bowlers a fighting chance again. Fair enough. But major rule changes like this? They should be discussed before the auction, not after.

#8 Statistics and Data

A shoutout to data analysts and statisticians for making the game even more beautiful. Context is everything. For example, did you know Rajat Patidar has the highest strike rate (182) for middle-order batters since 2023 (min. 500 runs)? Why does it matter? Because he attacks when most teams struggle to accelerate, easing pressure on his side during the middle overs. Numbers tell stories—if you know where to look.

#8.5 Thinking cricketer’s miss-at-your-expense cricket content, psychological insights and life philosophy on Twitter, Instagram and your email inbox

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