Delhi Creates Unique Record in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: All XI Players Bowl in T20 First

In an unprecedented move, all 11 players, including wicketkeeper-captain Ayush Badoni, bowled for Delhi against Manipur in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on November 29, 2024. This marks the first instance in professional T20 cricket history where every player on the field bowled during an innings.

Delhi’s bold strategy saw none of their bowlers complete the standard four-over quota. Three players bowled three overs each, while Badoni contributed two overs, impressively delivering a maiden, conceding only eight runs, and claiming a wicket. The team restricted Manipur to 120/8 in their 20 overs, showcasing an experimental approach in the domestic circuit.

This move broke the previous record of nine bowlers used in a T20 innings, a feat achieved by teams like Bengal, Kerala, and Meghalaya during earlier editions of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Internationally, some IPL franchises like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Lucknow Super Giants have also used nine bowlers, but never more. India’s national T20 side, on the other hand, has only gone as far as using eight bowlers.

The decision has sparked debate within cricket circles. Former cricketer Dodda Ganesh criticized Delhi’s tactics, calling it a “mockery of professional cricket.” He acknowledged Manipur’s effort while questioning Delhi’s approach, stating it undermines the competitive spirit of the game.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time a wicketkeeper has bowled in professional cricket. Former Indian captain MS Dhoni occasionally rolled his arm over, even claiming a wicket in the 2009 Champions Trophy against the West Indies.

A Rare Strategy or Unnecessary Experimentation?

While Delhi’s move showcased innovation, it has also raised eyebrows regarding sportsmanship and competitiveness in domestic cricket. Fans and analysts remain divided on whether this record adds value to the game or trivializes it.