Hales has shown serious form in all the three formats this season (©GettyImages). Alexander Daniel Hales has taken English cricket by a storm. A guzzler as he seems to me (he wants a run every ball), the Nottinghamshire lad is even better than a rehoboam.
Related Articles
- Alex Hales smashes another century for Nottinghamshire
- Alex Hales' form could prompt England batting overhaul
Rare talent
A sweet timer of the cricket ball, he is one of those rare commodities who are suited to the whole goddamn game, not just a particular format. This is what makes him special and the next big thing in world cricket (at least in my view).
Ever since he smashed his maiden T20 hundred, thwacking the Sri Lankans to all parts of the ground to complete a truly astounding victory, it'd be fair to say he had become the cynosure of cricket pundits' discussion on England's ODI squad.
However, doubts still did exist as to whether his technique was fine enough for the longer versions.
What did he do hence? He nailed it. In other words, he didn't leave a stone unturned and blew those doubts into smithereens. That is what match-winners, determined players like him, actually have a craving for; these lads like to answer their critics with a bang and then begins a new chapter, like on this occasion.
Not just 'gung-ho'
Many part-time observers are of the perception that Hales is a mere slogger, a fifth-sixth gear operator or a T20 specialist, an opinion that only insults the his capability.
In fact, he is someone who likes to first set his eyes on the pitch (rather than having a go from the first ball itself), see how much the new ball is doing and then only does he open up to play his strokes.
He isn't about sheer hitting but a melange of aggression and moderation which are not the qualities of a slogger. He builds an innings rather than smoking one, the former being the better way of course.
Throughout his knock that generally goes at a strike rate of 100+, he'll show you maestoso drives, those beautiful back-foot punches and powerful pull shots to make his innings look perfect and the bowler rubbish.
One-day cricket world is raring to be hit by the Halestorm. Coming into his 50-over debut, the Nottinghamshire lad is carrying a heavy bag full of hopes and expectations. If the shortest version established him as one of the cleanest hitters of the white ball, ODIs should earn him greater respect.
It seems a perfect time then to shine for Hales. On the cards is the birth of a batting superstar.
No comments:
Post a Comment