April 19 , 2008

For the Love of the game - Cricket

Well, the IPL is now kicked off and officially on its way. There were much rambling about it by many people. Some say it is a death blow to “cricketing spirit” and some argue it made the cricketers sheer “commodities”.

Regarding the first argument, I think there is no better time than now to revisit the definition for true spirit of the Cricket? Is it only when one country plays another? So, is it a “nationality” spirit or “Cricket” spirit? So, where were these guys when Ranji Trophy was played where National players faced off each other under their respective leagues? Also why no one complained when our players played in English County cricket? In fact, it used to be a moment of proud to mention that Tendulkar got selected to Yorkshire or Kumble played for Northamptonshire. So, is it the inherent feeling that whatever rich countries do is all good or is it the simple jealousy to accept the fact that the local players are getting so much recognition.

Coming to second comment, whether you accept it or not, Cricket is always coupled with money and the players are one of the richest in the country. The amount of betting that goes behind the scenes; the match fixing scandals do speak about the bulk of money involved in this game. Cricketers are always “commodities” and will continue to be. In fact any money making person will become a commodity if exposed to the public. We are so used to supporting Cricket only when it is played at the national level. There is no harm in coupling passion for the game with patriotic spirit but it should not be restricted to that level. This mind set amongst our Indians killed the regional cricket in our country. With a population of 1.3 billion there are only 11 guys who get all the attention and of course money following it. There was a huge cry for survival among regional players who could not penetrate through the ridiculous competition. It is irony that, Ranji trophy performances are still the yard stick for player performances to be selected to National level but there will be hardly any audience to witness one. IPL will definitely open avenues for recognition to many such players and may become launching pad for many new talented careers. Young players get to play with international players and can learn a lot. I think IPL in one way regularized the money involved in the Cricket game. With the way country is booming, young population multiplying in leaps and bounds Cricket is one of the money churning franchises and let nobody speak against it!! I agree it is difficult to adjust the mindset to watch Ricky Pointing celebrating a wicket along with Ishant Sharma, but we better get used to it. It was the same feeling when Shaqeel O’Neal plays against Kobe Bryant in NBA but hey, it is all part of the game. But for a common cricket fan like me, I would say watch it “for the love of the game”. A good out swinger bowled, or a fabulous cover drive, or a splendid catch always brings sparks in my eyes!!.

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