Scores were exceptionally high in early IPL 2020 games—especially in Sharjah—due to a mix of ground dimensions, pitch freshness, and weather conditions. Here's why:
🧨 1. Short Boundaries in Sharjah
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Sharjah has very small dimensions, especially straight and square.
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Even mistimed shots cleared the ropes, making it a paradise for big-hitters.
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Bowlers had little margin for error—yorkers and slower balls were often punished.
Example: KXIP vs RR (Sharjah) saw over 440 runs scored in a single game.
🌱 2. Fresh, Flat Pitches
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The pitches hadn’t been used extensively in months due to the pandemic.
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Early surfaces were hard, even, and full of bounce—perfect for strokeplay.
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No cracks, no spin, no seam movement—just pure batting tracks.
🌡️ 3. Hot & Dry Conditions
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The dry UAE climate baked the pitches, removing any early moisture.
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This made ball come onto the bat nicely, especially under lights.
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Outfields were also fast, helping boundaries flow.
😷 4. Rustiness in Bowling
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Players had returned after months without competitive cricket.
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Bowlers struggled with rhythm, control, and adapting to the heat and pressure.
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Captains were experimenting with combinations, which gave batters an edge.
💨 5. No Crowd Pressure
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With no fans in the stands, batters could focus purely on execution.
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Less adrenaline, more clarity = smarter shot selection.
🧠 Quick Summary:
| Factor |
Impact |
| Short boundaries |
More sixes, pressure on bowlers |
| Flat pitches |
Easy for batters to play shots |
| Weather conditions |
Helped dry, consistent surfaces |
| Bowling rustiness |
Loose deliveries, poor execution |
| No crowds |
Less pressure, more calculated risks |
Would you like a list of the highest-scoring matches in the early part of IPL 2020?