DURBAN, April 26: The glitterati are finally giving way to cricket. The IPL will continue to live with its share of Bollywood, vivacious women, talent hunts and charity but with the honeymoon over it is time get the focus back on the game.

Playing T20 in South Africa has required a different approach. Some teams have got it spot on while others have got the reading wrong. The newly introduced ‘tactical timeout’ has only added to the captains woes. Saturday’s clash between Mumbai and Deccan Chargers was a classic example on how the break could affect momentum. Teams might well have to have their thinking caps on for a longer duration.

"We were doing well but the momentum shifted after the break. Teams will have to look at playing overs 11 and 12 more carefully especially while chasing. It is something everyone has to work around," said Sachin Tendulkar after his Mumbai Indians suffered their first defeat in the tournament.

Even in high scoring matches, there have been phases of play where the bowlers have had a role to play. The balance between bat and ball has been near equal and that has made viewing a far greater pleasure.

"In South Africa one cannot look at scoring in all the 20 overs. The good balls will have to be respected. With the wickets also aiding spin I am sure the spinners will have a bigger role to play as the tournament progresses," explained Sachin.

Poor weather has had a bearing in some games. It has also affected practice. "We came here with very little cricket after playing our first match on April 18. The long break did affect us but there can be no excuses at this level. The job is to stay focused," said Sachin. With the tournament moving towards its business stage, it is crucial for players to not lose sight of the bigger picture.

Openers have had a significant impact here. Sachin has taken the role of an anchor, a concept as novel as the format itself. "Anchoring in T20 has a different meaning. It is to rotate the strike, put the loose deliveries away and let the rest of the order revolve around. Anchoring is not just blocking like in other formats."

Preparation and planning have also been the keys to success. The Chargers are reaping the rewards of well thought out camp in Pretoria before the tournament commenced. Mumbai were here two weeks in advance with their trainers for their fringe players to get a feel of the conditions.