The Indian Premier League

Posted on 02 Jun 2008 under Random

And finally, a point about the talent uncovered during this IPL. Yes, it’s true that not many unknown names have become house-hold names. Yes, it’s true that this privilege has been limited to a few players like Gony, Raina, Asnodkar, etc. However, it’s much more important for youngsters to rub shoulders with their icons and heroes than it is to become instantly recognizable faces. I remember reading an article recently by an iconic bowler, and he mentioned that one of the turning points of his career was playing in the same match as one of his childhood heroes. The fact that he ended up with better figures than his icon gave him the confidence and impetus to really put his heart into his bowling. There’s much to learn from players with experience. Just to get a chance to share a net session with them, I’m sure, has probably been the highlight of the IPL for many young Indian players having tremendous potential to be tapped.

Yeah, I know I’ve probably only covered the positives of the IPL here. I do have quite a few things I dislike about it. Some of the teams’ names were ridiculous (one was named after an alcoholic beverage, for crying out loud!). The cheerleaders’ fiasco was even more ridiculous. A storm in a tea-cup, in my opinion. Cricket haters, purists and overzealous conservatives probably had a field day, though. And I must say, it was quite funny to watch semi-buffed up men try to dance with pompoms. It was even funnier to watch cheerleaders for some teams completely covered up with full-body black innerwear. However, at the end of the day, the IPL was a much-needed change from what cricket has become these days. Purists will disagree, I’m sure, and I don’t really care much about them. Let us not forget that it’s only an annual event taking about 45 days. See you next year, IPL.


10 Responses to “The Indian Premier League”

  1. well. its just a twisted way to get housewives into the game. i would rather see them watch serials than talk cricket.. feels wierd.. its one of the last forts men still hold :P

  2. That’s why they should legalize strip clubs in India :D

  3. What an interesting article! The match was awesome. Didn’t see the whole of it, but I did see the last parts. The closing ceremony was terrific. The stadium is just round the block and I’d seen the rehearsals and stuff right in front of my house. Lucky eh? :P

    But yeah, the match was good. The Rajasthan team totally deserved it, but both played very well. The last ball was the best lol. One run to go and one ball. That was edge of the seat excitement even for someone like me who doesn’t give a shit about cricket. Great match and I’m definitely looking forward to the next season.

  4. Yeah, so am I.

  5. There’s not much I miss about the year I spent studying in England during high school (I particularly don’t miss the food).

    But strangely, I grew to love cricket. Strangely? Sure; I’m Italian, and I now live in the USA. Not much cricket in either place!

    The IPL sounds great … maybe one day there’ll be an American Premier League. But then again, maybe not. ;-)

  6. You’re right, Mario. That’s probably the first time I’ve heard of an Italian fan of cricket, but it’s all good, dude. Sport is sport, and it can never have enough fans.

  7. Gurdit, you’re absolutely right … I’m busy trying to start loving baseball as much as I do soccer (and cricket of course).

    But it’s an uphill battle; I still don’t really get baseball at all.

  8. @Mario : One thing you can try to do is play some video games. Perhaps it sounds like a silly suggestion, but games do create interest in the sport itself.

  9. This beautiful and informative article, thank you very much. Use this page to your friend told you.

  10. thanks.good article

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