In fantasy cricket, top-order batters and strike bowlers often steal the limelight. However, there’s a hidden gem in every game: the tailenders. These players, who typically bat at the bottom of the order, are often overlooked in team selection. While their primary roles may revolve around bowling, fielding, or simply holding the fort during a collapse, tailenders can significantly influence your fantasy points tally when used strategically.
If you’re looking to maximize your chances in a fantasy cricket game, it’s time to recognize the underrated importance of tailenders. Here’s why they matter and how you can utilize them effectively when you play fantasy cricket.
The Role of Tailenders in Cricket
Tailenders are generally players who are better at bowling than batting. Yet, their occasional heroics with the bat and consistent contributions with the ball make them invaluable assets.
- Unexpected Contributions with the Bat
While tailenders are not known for piling on runs, their ability to hit quickfire boundaries during the death overs can turn games around. For example, bowlers like Mitchell Starc or Shardul Thakur often step up in crisis situations. These quick cameos are worth valuable points in fantasy cricket. - Bowling Prowess
Many tailenders are frontline bowlers, delivering breakthroughs and maintaining economical spells. Bowlers like Trent Boult or Jasprit Bumrah, who are also capable of taking wickets in clusters, are essential picks for fantasy teams. - Fielding Contributions
Tailenders often shine in the field, taking crucial catches or effecting run-outs. These contributions, though less celebrated, add vital points to your fantasy score. - Partnership Breakers
In addition to their main roles, tailenders sometimes bowl in pressure situations. Their ability to break partnerships and contain runs can sway the course of the game
Why Tailenders Are Crucial in Fantasy Cricket
1. Cost-Effective Options
Tailenders are often priced lower than top-order players in fantasy cricket apps. Including them in your team allows you to allocate more credits toward premium batters or all-rounders while maintaining a balanced lineup.
2. Dual Contributions
Tailenders contribute in multiple areas: bowling, batting (albeit occasionally), and fielding. Their ability to earn points across categories makes them versatile and valuable picks.
3. Death-Over Dynamics
In limited-overs formats like T20 and ODIs, tailenders often get opportunities to bat during the death overs. Their ability to clear the boundary under pressure can fetch unexpected points, turning the tide in your fantasy game.
4. Wicket-Taking Abilities
Many tailenders are specialist bowlers who take wickets at regular intervals. Capturing wickets is among the highest-scoring actions in fantasy cricket, making them a vital component of any team.
5. Game-Changing Performances
There’s always the possibility of a tailender pulling off a surprise performance. Who can forget moments like Pat Cummins’ explosive 50 in the IPL? These performances translate to big points in fantasy cricket.
How to Effectively Use Tailenders in Fantasy Cricket
1. Analyze Match Conditions
Understanding pitch conditions and weather forecasts is crucial. On green pitches or swinging tracks, bowlers who bat in the lower order are more likely to have a significant impact.
2. Focus on Form and Matchups
Choose tailenders who are in good form and have a favorable matchup against the opposition. For instance, pacers who excel at exploiting weaknesses in a batting lineup can be game-changers.
3. Select the Right Format
Tailenders tend to perform better in T20s and ODIs compared to Test matches in fantasy cricket. The shorter formats offer more opportunities for quick runs and frequent bowling spells, making them valuable. So, play fantasy cricket by including tailenders in your squad.
4. Role Clarity in Playing XI
Before selecting tailenders, ensure they are part of the playing XI and understand their role. Most fantasy cricket apps provide updated team sheets, so make sure to confirm their inclusion before finalizing your lineup.
5. Use as Captain or Vice-Captain in Certain Scenarios
While this might seem unconventional, choosing a tailender with proven wicket-taking abilities as your captain or vice-captain can yield high rewards, particularly in low-scoring games.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the Batting Contributions
Many fantasy players overlook the runs scored by tailenders, focusing solely on their bowling. However, even a quick cameo can make a difference. - Overloading on Star Players
Allocating too many credits to top-order stars might leave you unable to pick quality tailenders. Strike a balance. - Neglecting Fielding Points
Tailenders are often excellent fielders, contributing catches or run-outs. These small points can add up over time.
Conclusion
In the world of fantasy cricket, every player on your roster plays a crucial role, including the often-underestimated tailenders. Their ability to contribute in multiple areas—whether it’s delivering a fiery bowling spell, smashing a few sixes, or making a game-changing catch—can make them the secret weapon in your strategy.
When you play fantasy cricket, remember to value the versatility and cost-effectiveness of tailenders. With careful analysis and a bit of foresight, these underrated players can provide the edge you need to outscore your competition. So, the next time you build your team, don’t just focus on the stars; look at the tailenders who can quietly win you the game.
