From nurturing horses, criminals, cricketers....and what more??

Horse Race: Turf Club : Horses::Cricket: Stadium : Players!...makes for a pretty good analogy, isn't it ?.

Notwithstanding the shifting of the Bangalore Turf Club to the city's outskirts, the launch of "KPL" or the Karnataka Premier League is proving to be the ideal replacement. With a total of eight teams likely to be owned by filmstars, movie production houses, underworld dons and politicians the league provides them with a great breeding ground for establishing a wider base in the state, not to mention all the betting, gambling that comes along.

While the relocation of the turf club comes as a disappointment to many, for some the KPL comes as a blessing to make more money, catapult growth of unscrupulous elements, all in the name of 'CRICKET'. It doesn't come as much of a surprise with Anil Kumble making his displeasure evident. Kumble has a point when he says the league will encourage lot of backdoor entry. The former captain is spot on. From betting on horses to cricketers, the action from the Bangalore Turf club shifts a few miles down to the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium.

With two teams from Bangalore, six teams from mofussil's and media coverage the stakes are high. Another point Kumble makes is about the modest pay caps on players and the overall format. With each association getting an annual grant from the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India), the K.S.C.A (Karnataka State Cricket Association) certainly has the wherewithal to run a tournament, develop the game throughout the state on its own terms. If at all the state association believes it lacks the marketing abilities, it could have brought in expertise from professional sports management firms like IMG, develop a business model and take the game forward.

Over the years Karnataka cricket has seen the greatest of cricketers represent the country. Its hypocritical when all those bidding for these teams vouch for the game's developement. And it surely doesn't require a KPL to be held to foster talents. Encouraging elements for whom the game, it's players and the development is of least priority would be the last thing that cricket needed. But at the end of the day it boils down to business.

For the player's, with instant success, fame and money through the IPL's (Indian Premier League) and KPL's the desire and motivation to play for their state teams, Ranji Trophy and the longer version of the game is sure to take a beating. And the signs are ominous. Hope sanity prevails.

Owners bidding for teams include :

Upendra, Ramya, Sudeep, Rockline Venkatesh (actors & producers), Muthappa Rai (underworld don-turned-politician), Sriramulu (Minister), Ambareesh (actor&politician), industrialist Jagannath Y, politician Jayprakash Hegde and educational group Jain Group of institutions.

Likely team owners

My neighbour - "Teresa"..

If there's one place where I've spent more time than Bangalore, its Bristol. There was a great connect with the place in a lot of ways. And when things happen unexpectedly you tend to enjoy all the more. Sometimes it takes time to adapt and the initial days were quite boring. But soon it was fun. Everything about Bristol was great. The food, travel, shopping, soccer, Horfield sports center, cricket, cycling, the pubs and much more :-)

While i kind of hated travelling initially, i realized it was infact great fun going around Europe. That was the best thing to happen. Although a veggie, food was never an issue. I loved the McVities chocolate biscuit and almond croissant from Tesco, the breakfast at my workplace Aztec West which included scrambled eggs, toast and honey, hashbrown and bakedbeans, the cereal bars and Lucozade sports drink. Everyone loved the Horfield sports center, for its facilities were magnificent. It had a swimming pool with warm water, squash courts, gym and a makeshift basketball/football/badminton court. The 5-a side football game at Horfield was a great pastime and everyone of us (Caritor/Keane employees) would be eager for the weekend to kick some ass on the court.

While i cherish the whole experience one thing which i miss about Bristol is my doting neighbour Teresa Lines. When i came back to Bangalore i made it a point to keep in touch with her either through phone or mail. Her husband Vic, an avid sports lover was on medication for quite a long time and passed away in 2007. Her grandchildren lived close by, couple of roads away but Teresa lived alone. Whenever i called her she'd instantly recognize through my voice and would start the conversation in her own inimitable style "khaaaurtikkk(read karthik).... hi my love.... how r u????" with a laugh. I'd always joke around with her and crack some stupid jokes whenever i spoke to her. She was quite fond of me always enquiring about girl friends, my work, my parents and ofcourse my gym!

During one of my recent phone conversation, the voice on the other side trembled. I realized something was wrong. She said "Khaaurtik..... I've not been well for a while now.... I've just had a surgery and some x-rays for the lungs.....I've turned 80 and its not getting better". After the conversation i went into a reverie trying to remember the days in Bristol.

Teresa was like a guardian. Am sure the rest of the guys who stayed at 42, Third avenue opine the same. Not many in their 80's would have the energy and enthusiasm as she did. It was fantastic to see how she cared for us - the boys next door. She would enquire about our work, the life back in India , the soiled curtains, gardening and a whole load of things. She'd update us with what had happened in the neighbourhood, the thefts, burglaries, prayers at the church and much more. Infact, a lot of times she'd remind us of the day when the garbage collection happened and the color of the bin which was supposed to be kept outside.

Most times I'd bump into her with my shorts and jerkin before heading to the gym. She'd ask me not to come back late from the gym as there were few instances of people getting roughed up. She would talk about football and her grandson Chris's stint with the Bristol Rovers. She was extremely proud of him and one day invited me over to her place to show a collection of his photos and articles that appeared in the local media.

Although very sweet I vividly remember an instance of Teresa getting charged up. That day when we had locked the house and left the keys inside. Teresa helped us get a ladder from her neighbour and we tried to sneak through a small opening unsuccessfully. We finally reached the landlord for a duplicate key and were asked collect them. We informed Teresa about this and left to get the duplicate keys. Little did we know Teresa would be waiting for us the whole evening. I must admit it was quite stupid of us to not inform her once we were back. We were in our rooms when she knocked the door hard and started shouting at us for not letting her know. Teresa had a point, for she usually went to bed early and had been waiting for us that day only to realize we'd been home an hour back! It was shameful and embarrassing as she left in a huff saying she wouldn't help us again. I'd been feeling guilty for what had happened and decided to repair the damage done. The next afternoon i wrote an apology letter, got a small teddy bear from the greeting shop and dropped it at her doorstep as she wasn't at home. As i sat watching TV in the evening someone knocked the door. It was Teresa. She was emotional as she hugged me saying it was all fine. The letter and the bear had done the trick :-)

One very poignant moment hard to forget was during the Mumbai train blasts. I came home from work a bit late. Teresa was outside watering the plants. She enquired me about the blasts and the situation in Mumbai. Just as we chatted she broke down. Incidentally she'd lost her son in the war and felt miserable about all the violence in the world. Its hard to react at such times. It was just silence all round.

She loved displaying greeting cards. I think it was during Easter or Christmas, when the cards were all over on the fireplace, window panes and on the table. The best part about Teresa was when she'd prepare home made cakes and distribute. To say they were great would be an understatement. She kept her house spick and span, very contrasting to the one next door!

She loved her cat -"Shandy". Shandy and Teresa had some kind of connection. After Vic's death i paid a visit to her place. Shandy was quiet, didn't move around much and coiled in between my legs quietly. She knew something was definitely amiss.

With just 2 months away before i departed Bristol, i had my parents come over after an Europe trip. The way in which she interacted with them was remarkable. Although my parents couldn't quite comprehend the fast paced English she spoke they were able to understand what she intended to say. Probably telepathic. By the end of their stay they were touched by Teresa's warmth and gesture. Am sure Adi's parents who visited him in 2008 would testify the same.

The week before i left (1st week of July) i presented her with a classic pendulum clock along with a note of thanks. Any number of words wouldn't suffice to express something to Teresa. She hugged me and gave a peck on my cheek. She said she'd miss me and that i was a great lad. That for me was one of the best compliments that I've ever received from someone. Certainly not bragging, but that was something special. I remember messaging Malavika about that.

It was sort of a trend for those who left that place (I'd seen atleast a couple of them) to leave a bouquet at her door. I did the same on July7th. As i left Bristol, i saw Teresa watching from her window and waving at me for one last time.

Teresa was expressive and always spoke her heart out. Her laughter was addictive with great energy in them. She'd introduce her friends, make great cakes. She'd sign off in style saying "alrightttt...take care my love.... byee khaaaaaurtik" and she did mumble the other night when i spoke to her.

She'll always remain special...Home away from home..

India's political and cricket fortunes

Well, the events that unfolded over the last few weeks have been quite invigorating, bit like a roller-coaster ride. It couldn't have been better with the IPL happening both on and off the field (Indian Premier League & the Indian Political League).

Firstly, the uncertainty over any sort of clear majority in the Loksabha elections was palpable. The IPL in South Africa was pretty much similar. For, almost 6 teams jostled for a place in the top four to make it through to the semi-finals. Like the Congress and BJP which formed the fulcrum in their respective alliances (UPA & NDA) with numerous smaller parties revolving around, the Delhi Daredevils and Chennai Superkings were probably the big players on field with the rest beating around the bush trying to have their share of pie.

The mandate looked to be clearly divided with no clear winner emerging. So much so, that the leaders from relatively smaller parties like Mayawati, Sharad Pawar nursed ambitions to become the Prime Minister. While the BSP's and NCP's ebbed away, the resurgence of Royal Challengers and Deccan chargers is a distinctive part between the elections and cricket with the underdogs emerging victorious.For Royal Challenger's the road to the top has been a challenging one especially to stage a comeback after four loses. A testament of the team's will to succeed despite all odds.

The last three matches (Royals Vs KKR, KingsXI Vs Superkings and Royal Challengers Vs Deccan Chargers) were almost like the days before the counting on May 16 with no winners in sight and every party bargaining with every other party in town. While the Royals went down without a fight against the battered Knightriders, KingsXI despite losing to Chennai seemed to be in contention for the semi-finals provided the Royal Challengers lost by huge margins. For Kings XI to make it to the top four, required Deccan Chargers to chase a total of 170 by 11.2 overs, which was quite unlikely.

On the field the wait and the anticipation finally ended with the Royal Challengers joining Daredevils, Deccan and Superkings. At last the points table looked as stable as the people's mandate for the Congress and its allies. Of course, the aftermath was evident with the market shooting up 2000 points like the upsurge of the Royal Challengers. An upsurge that wasn't serendipitous.

With the party's and teams having made and shown great promises it remains to seen if they have the wherewithal to deliver when it really matters.

IPL is more International

The critics wrote it off, the former cricketer's disliked the shorter format and some believed the city based culture was hard to establish given the nationalistic sentiment about the game in India. By and large there were more skeptics than an optimistic audience.

But the IPL took off with a bang, with a hope to nurture young Indian cricketers giving them an opportunity one could never ever fathom about - sharing the same dressing room with the connoisseurs of the game or effecting a run chase with Sachin Tendulkar or setting a field in consultation with Adam Gilchrist or a keeper saying "Common Warney" when Shane Warne is about to bowl! The IPL was a boon that began with a boom, no doubt.

Now in the middle of the second leg of the IPL one wonders if the IPL has actually had one of its objective fulfilled, which is to have some fine young prospects forming the back bone of Indian cricket. With 8 teams and over 60 Indian players, the percentage of an Indian prospect outshining a player of international repute is very negligible. Barring a few like Ravindra Jadeja, Shadab Jakati, Abhishek Nayar, Rajat Bhatia and Pradeep Sangwan the rest of the chunk has failed to create any considerable impact.

Time and again the onus has been on the established players to either make or break the game. While the IPL was expected to have some young talent shining through amidst the galaxy of stars, its still players like Hayden, Gilchrist, Tendulkar and Warne who continue to reign.

The game against Mumbai and Royals (May 14th) was an example of the inability of the Indian talent to take responsibility and perform. The idea of sending Yogesh Takawale and Rahane up the order before Sachin and Jayasurya backfired. Eventually it was upto Sachin to help resurrect Mumbai Indians. The Royal Challenger's, Bangalore have been largely dependent on the experience of Anil Kumble while the likes of Robin Uthappa, Karan Sharma, Rajesh Bishnoi haven't delivered as expected. Similarly, Chennai SuperKings have been doing well, thanks to Matthew Hayden and Delhi with AB De Villiers and Dirk Nannes. And for Punjab its a certain Yusuf Abdulla from SouthAfrica.

While a few performances have been heartening, its the international players who have been the kingmakers of the IPL. However the experience of being the subordinates amidst all the master's is sure to keep them in good stead. And with a hope they will rule one fine day.

Batting
ML Hayden -> 486(Runs)

AC Gilchrist -> 329(Runs)

SK Raina -> 322(Runs)

AB de Villiers -> 315(Runs)

SR Tendulkar -> 307(Runs)

JP Duminy -> 301(Runs)

Bowling
SL Malinga ->16 (Wkts)

RP Singh -> 16 (Wkts)

A Nehra -> 15 (Wkts)

YA Abdulla ->14 (Wkts)

SK Warne -> 14 (Wkts)

A Kumble -> 13 (Wkts)

Royal Challenger's timely Resurgence

Not withstanding last year's debacle, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) owned by the liquor baron were expected to be on high spirits right through the 2009 IPL season. The expectations were certainly high after the signings of Kevin Pietersen, Jesse Ryder alike.

But the last couple of games for the RCB (match 41&44) against the battered KnightRiders and a balanced SuperKings outfit is sure to give them a high. A high better than Whyte & Mackay whisky, the team's sponsors.

The Knightriders can't help ruing their luck, thanks to their bowlers. Despite being in shatters McCullum's knock was a testament of grit. 170 by T20 standards is a winning total and any team ought to have defended it. On the other hand the Superkings were undone by some sensible bowling and fielding by Kumble and co. While not many team's have capitalized on Suresh Raina's weakness for the short pitch deliveries, the RCB had surely done their homework well. The think tank comprising of the coach, analyst deserve the credit, for Raina has been in pristine form in the shorter version ever since his return to international cricket.

Considering the myriad of drop catches in the tournament, RCB's fielding was quite refreshing. Van Der Merwe's caught and bowled of a straight drive from Dhoni was brilliant. Dhoni's wicket was probably the turning point, for he along with Hayden were putting on a nice partnership. The rest of the lineup fell like a pack of cards after Dhoni and Hayden's departure when the Superkings were reduced to 101/4.

In response the RCB didn't quite seem to be confident enough in chasing at over 6runs per over. Robin Uthappa's form has been disastrous, Virat kohli's form patchy and the onus was again on Ross Taylor to see the team through. And he did do it with elan. However Van der Merwe's complacent running would deserve some stick from Ray Jennings, the RCB coach.

While the RCB may have lost an opportunity to up the run rate considering the fact that the Mumbai India's and the Royals have that one point advantage (courtesy:a wash out of the first game between MI and Royals), it was a humdinger of a performance by their "go-to man" Ross Taylor nevertheless.

Whether the RCB can make it to the top 4 still remains a mystery, if only they can grab the horse by its ears and create those opportunities rather than playing it too safe.

Playing your Natural Game - a silly theory

Rahul Dravid during the Newzealand series said he didn't quite understand what the whole "natural game" thing was all about and what mattered was it is the ability to adapt for any player, which makes him a great player eventually. I think it's become a cliche of sorts. Thanks to the power play's in ODI and the T20 format.

While most of the player's credit their success to the "natural game" phenomenon, i feel it has seldom worked barring for a few. The whole problem is, it is embarrassing for the players and teams ending up on the losing side. The game between Rajasthan Royal and Royal Challengers Bangalore was a testimony to this.

First it was Robin Uthappa who succumbed with a mistimed shot with the score reading 17/2 with 15 overs to spare. At this point, all that was required of Robin to stick his neck out and build a nice partnership alongside Kevin Pietersen with Dravid due to come next. The Royals had their share of natural game players in Asnodkar and Tyron Henderson. Asnodkar trying to pull of a good length outswinging delivery wouldn't have even impressed Shipla Shetty, for it made him inept to handle quality bowling.

However it was the master who came out and showed how the game is played. Having lost early wickets Dravid ensured he played a long innings, building partnerships and once set paced the innings brilliantly with boundaries. And deservingly the knock earned him the man of the match which is sure to keep the critics hiding behind their couch.

Clearly it is the ability to play to the situation accordingly and use the natural game as a weapon to counter the opponents at the right moment. The Gayle's, Tendulkar's and the McCullum's know it at the back of their mind and that is why they succeed.

A one off knock could just be a flash in the pan. But its high time the mentality amongst the youngsters change, or else playing the natural game every time would make you look really stupid.

South End Road - A Paradise Lost

What makes Bangalore special apart from the weather? Hard thing to answer. Its not about the IT revolution, the malls or anything else. When it comes to food, most people identify themselves with Idly, vada, sambhar or the masala dosa's at the various fast foods like SLV, Adigas or the Brahmin's coffee bar or the famous Vidyarthi Bhavan.

While parks and trees are in abundance there's one place in particular that holds a special place in our hearts. From young couples koochi-kooing, to elders and joggers exercising in the parks, to motorists, "South-end road" (aka Rose Garden, Nanda Talkies road) is a great boon to Bangalorean's.

Surrounded by gardens throughout the stretch, with canopy of trees and beautiful tree avenues the place makes for a pleasant sight. A ride or stroll under the tree canopies, even the hottest summer in town can go unnoticed. The breeze running through the face is like balm. For those commuting to Jayanagar, J.P.Nagar and few parts of South Bangalore travelling through this stretch is mindblowing. And for those coming from outstations, the beginning of this stretch really makes you feel at home. An experience nonpareil.

This day for me and most of the fellow Bangalorean's it is sad and depressing as we realize that this fabulous place or a part of it would be gone forever. Thanks to the Bangalore Metro project, this place as we call it the "heaven on earth" will never be the same again.

While the government maintains it has taken measures to plant samplings elsewhere in the city, it is hard to comprehend why anyone would even try to mess up with this beautiful area which has been a part of most of us. More importantly something we identify with. If Delhi can have an underground metro why not Bangalore.

That Bangalore is known as the Garden city is testimony to places such as these. Unfortunately in years to come, the paradise will be lost and the identity too to an extent. And soon enjoying a sumptuous breakfast after an early morning fitness might just be a thing of the past.

But as the cliche goes "life goes on".

The Dressing Room

Cricketers in India are demi-gods. We worship them when they do well on the field and burn effigies when they fail to perform. For the world outside the perception about our cricketers is different – that cricketers are stars and sometimes arrogant. At times it seems justified for very few are privy to their lives inside the dressing room or their behavior outside the field.

I've been a sports fan and more so a cricket fanatic for long. Having grown up idolizing these stars it was a dream to meet them at some point in time. I've been lucky to have witnessed the cricketers, few of them and observe their personalities to an extent. It was in September 2004 when I had a first hand experience in terms of the effort each player instills in his game. The Indian team had their conditioning camp at the K.S.C.A, Bangalore where I had the privilege to assist the team as a wicket-keeper.

Keeping wickets to Anil Kumble, Harbhajan Singh and few others was phenomenal. John Wright the coach then watched the players from behind the nets along with keeper Parthiv Patel beside him. Sairaj Bahatule, the Mumbai leg spinner bowled one down the leg and I had collected the ball well when I heard John Wright saying “good job” mate and explaining my movement down the leg side to Parthiv Patel. The next couple of deliveries I had goosebumps literally. I remember Sachin Tendulkar having recovered from a shoulder injury and tried his hand at bowling. During one of his deliveries Sachin had bowled a googly which I failed to read and went the wrong way while the ball went in the other direction and Sachin gestured with a smile indicating how I was foxed. The 3 weeks I spent with the players was remarkable.

Almost four years later I had an opportunity to experience something similar. This time around it wasn't with my white dress and keeping gloves, but trying to learn the nuances of my new job or part of it I must say, sitting in the dressing room alongside the players. It was a Duleep trophy game between South and Central zone having great players and prospects like Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, L.Balaji, Badrinath, Piyush Chawla, Kaif, Dinesh Karthik to name a few. To be sitting in there and not get distracted by their presence is impossible. Looking at them speak, conduct themselves, prepare for the game, their food during breaks was fantastic. The starry nature of theirs isn't visible for they are completely natural in the dressing room atmosphere in comparison to facing thousands of autograph seekers outside.

As I sat with my colleague trying to learn some new stuff, right next to us was Venkatesh Prasad speaking about banks and a whole lot of things happening around before he departed. Rahul Dravid who failed to create any impact was alone, not much of interaction, laying his hands at almost every newspaper and discussing a murder case that appeared on the first page with Robin Uthappa. Chief selector and Sehwag of the 80's Krish Srikanth was in his own inimitable style talking aloud and smoking. South Zone were struggling at 81/5 when Dinesh Karthik went out to bat. In the current scenario even a double century by Karthik would be hard to earn him a recall to the test and ODI side and moreso since Dhoni is at his peak. As he walked down to the field, Srikanth shouted at him in tamil saying " dai machaa... Jolly aa valaaadu" (meaning enjoy your game).

The best of the lot of was VVS Laxman. That Laxman is humble, friendly and liked by everyone was a testimonial to what I observed. Laxman, Kumble and Srikanth spoke a bit of every language (tamil, telugu, hindi,english). Srikanth mentioned that the role of a selector was a thankless job along with wicket-keeping and umpiring. He went on to say that the selector could only pick any one of the 3 best contenders for any slot and dropping the other 2 was a sin. The aftermath, the “gaaliyan”(abuse) that a selector receives on dropping players was the worst part.

Dravid eventually joined the three and burst into a laughter when Srikanth mentioned that his “expert analyst” role with one of the news channel was the best as he would sit in his lawn with his “dhoti” and answer few questions from the studio. They spoke about the Satyam scam, recession, stock exchange losses, investments and real estate. On the field Dinesh Karthik did just what Srikanth told him, to enjoy the game, as he resurrected the south zone innings with a fine 152 of 112 deliveries. The whole team stood up and applauded as he showed his bat towards the dressing room. Laxman on hearing the noise sat beside coming fresh from a nap and ordered some tea enquiring about Karthik's knock.

John Wright in his book “Indian summers” mentions Laxman was pivotal in forming a bridge between the old and the younger lot. He was spot on. The way he carries himself is wonderful. Simple, no nonsense, approachable and most importantly liked by all. The general chat revolved around Laxman as he chatted in with Dinesh Karthik, enquiring Balaji about his home in Chennai, Badrinath and few others. Piyush Chawla later came in saying “Laxman bhai I couldn't bowl well as i lacked practice with the Kookabura ball” as part of the new experiment. Post match, Laxman would get Sreeshanth to analyse his bowling and the plan for Day 2 relishing with a plate of Rava Idly.

Personally having had an opportunity to watch these greats from close quarters was fascinating and a day well spent, I'd say.

A cricketing delight - Test cricket at its pinnacle best

Two weeks of magnificent test cricket, two teams with amazing cricketing pedigree vying for the top spot and two great run chases. The Aussie winning streak is at a low ebb. Cricket couldn't have been any better.

Proteas Power - “Staying Sharp”

Playing against Australia on their home turf is quite a task. To give the Aussies a stern challenge and beat them on a regular basis by opposition teams is quite an achievement. To be doing it repeatedly is even more remarkable.

After being confronted by the Indians, the Proteas have done just that. Chasing a target of 414 on day 4 and day 5 of a test match at any part of the world is an herculean task.

Batting by both teams in the 1st innings wasn't quite up to the mark. The Proteas seem to lose the sting on both occasions failing to clear the Aussie tail. Bowling in particular by Makhaya Ntini and Mitchell Johnson's was inspiring. Mitchell Johnson was a revelation. Johnson's bowling at a consistent 145 kmph along with his slower cutters was splendid. The Proteas top order was shaken as there was a carnage of wickets on Day2. Fielding by both teams, to say was terrific would be an understatement.

Brad Haddin notched up a well compiled 94 along with a wagging tail that contributed considerably in the 2nd innings. The knock is sure to keep him in good stead and assure him the wicket-keeping slot left void by Adam Gilchrist. The rest of the Aussie batting failed to create much impact. However it was the 2nd innings that saw the proteas bounce back. Two outstanding catches by Ab De Villiers would have made even Peter Schmeichel stand up and applaud. Well, his website's tagline “Stay sharp” just sums it up.

The Aussie's probably underestimated the South African batting line up and were a touch over confident. For, Ricky and his boys would have thought chasing 414 on Day 4 and 5 was improbable.

Greame Smith with an injured elbow played a captain's knock of 108 ably supported by Hashim Amla. The Aussies were at him as they realised it wouldn't be easy to play his drives with a tennis elbow placing fielders disabling him from playing to his strengths. Ian Healy rightly said - “Test cricket is all about finding ways to score when its not comfortable”. It was indeed as Smith stood resilient and nothing could deter him from achieving his goal as he punished the bad balls and rotated the strike.

Ricky Ponting's frustration was evident. Amla on the other hand was seemingly elegant comfortable both on the back and front foot. Amla's return to form as a much improved player is refreshing considering the criticism he's been under for his technique. However the tables really turned on the extended final session of Day 4 when Jacque Kallis surprisingly took an aggressive approach smashing Jason Krejza and Peter Siddle building on a steady partnership with Ab De Villiers.

Their approach on Day 5 was noteworthy as they milked the Aussie bowlers sensibily ensuring they maintained a run rate of close to 3 runs per over. Even as Kallis perished, another partnership between De Villiers and debutant JP Duminy started brewing. Incidentally the best advice De Villiers ever received came from Jonty Rhodes who'd said “Take every innings ball by ball”. His unbeaten knock of 106 was testimony to this. Duminy on debut played like a man with tons of experience behind him scoring a maiden half-century and the winning runs. History had been created in one of the great run chases knocking out the Aussies in their own backyard.

While the once formidable Aussie's grapple to fill the void left behind by Warne and McGrath, the Indians and Proteas are on their way up with bright prospects in their ranks. Test cricket has never been so competitive of late. Incredible sessions marked by individual brilliance that could alter the course of the game. Partnerships that can ensure any target is achievable. That test cricket is the real test of skill has never been in doubt. It would be a shame to lose out the charm of test cricket. Is Test cricket on a decline? Not at all.

England's Gift to India

That Sports can be a binding factor in any adversity proved to be more than just a cliché. Thanks to the England team for they made it possible despite all that transpired after the Mumbai terror attacks. Any amount of praise showered on Kevin Peitersen and his men wouldn't suffice, for the first test between England and India at Chennai was testimony to this.

Amidst all the action and emotions around, the contest on the pitch was exceptional marked by brilliant performances by both teams. A resilient batting by Andrew Strauss with consecutive tons followed by a solid bowling display by Andrew Flintoff, England never really looked short of practice. If only their spearheads had supported Fredie from the other end, the result could have been different.

The cyclone across the Bay of Bengal seemed to have crossed over to the pitch of the Chidambaram Stadium in the form of Virendra Sehwag. While England failed to accelerate during their final session setting a target of 387, Sehwag bludgeoned the bowlers like there was no tomorrow. A knock that had an impact on both the teams psychologically, with India gaining impetus after a rather depleted performance for over 3 days.

While there is no debate on the knock, Sehwag was helped by a toothless performance in the form of Steve Harmison, James Anderson and Monty Panesar. Sehwag is one of the finest players of the cut shot. It was precisely for this reason he was picked at the last moment (courtesy Ian Chappell) for the Australian tour which has fast, bouncy tracks. And to be bowling short and wide on slow Indian wickets is beyond comprehension. The damage had been done.

Day 4 clearly belonged to Sehwag and day 5 had more in store. After the foundation laid by Sehwag, Tendulkar crafted an innings to perfection along with an unlikely star in Yuvraj Singh. In fact Tendulkar had proved a point or two, for his contribution to the team's success in the 2nd innings has eluded him for years. Secondly, it was a satisfying knock that helped his team win a test on the same ground which saw him score a brilliant 136 against Pakistan in vain when India lost by 13 runs.

One of the nation's most revered sons, dedicating the win to the whole nation during troubled times was a nice gesture. India created history but eventually cricket emerged victorious. No second thoughts on that.

Third world - Mayhem..

Why did it happen? How did it happen? Why can't we stop this? Does no one really care? A plethora of questions ran through the mind after the terror attacks in Mumbai on 26th of November. It has hit us hard. Brave men sacrificed their lives fighting for the nation, innocent people as always ended up as easy targets. The totem of Mumbai's heritage the Taj-Mahal palace was shattered. The Oberoi wasn't spared either.

In a way the incident is historical. The impact is massive. The feeling is numb and the public outcry just seems to intensify by the minute and understandably so. The only difference this time around was that it wasn't just the common man who suffered. The rich and affluent, echelons of the business world also bore the brunt of the attacks. The failure of our intelligence, the unpreparedness of our security was appalling. The state and central government's hitherto, needless to say, have been lackadaisical in initiating timely actions.

The previous attacks were similar, the magnitude probably lesser. Nationwide protests have been carried out, candle's have been lit across the country, celebrities and the business-world have come out in support to express solidarity. So what is it that's awakened us this time around?. Is it just because they ended up on the wrong side this time around? In a situation as volatile as this, it isn't quite right to talk about differences within the same section of society at a time when everyone ought to stand united. But let's face the reality. The divide between the rich and the lower strata of society has been palpable, television channels included.

We've been witness to a myriad of these attacks over the years. But 26/11 was nonpareil. Watching the 60 hour ordeal on T.V channels was an experience of sorts. No doubt it was the first of its kind for the media in India.

While hordes of reporters stood outside the Taj and Oberoi and presenters bragged about exclusive footages, the coverage on the CST where terrorists drew first blood leaves a lot to be desired. There was hardly any mention about the dead, injured in contrast to the Taj where guests where held hostage. While substantial footage was aired about the journalist who lost her life in the luxury suite on the 6th Floor of the Taj, there wasn't even a trace of the actual heroes.

Consider the case of ASI Tukaram Omble. Incidentally Omble intercepted one of the terrorists, and caught hold of the barrel of the AK-47 rifle with both hands and held on to it till his last breath even as a spray of bullets entered his stomach and intestines. Thanks to Omble's presence of mind, for we could nab the only terrorist alive and present a formidable case against Pakistan. Omble's efforts deserved to be told as much as the gallant acts by the Taj and Oberoi staff.

The views of citizens on television were nothing less than disgraceful. In fact one of them who claimed to be a designer was heard saying "I couldn't see the Taj burnt this way. I shall do whatever it takes to contribute to see the Taj and Oberoi resurrected". Where are these "contributing" citizens when train stations and markets are ripped off in similar fashion as the Taj. Probably some of them never ever have had the necessity to travel by trains, buses and shop in the bustling markets. And even more embarrassing were the irresponsible statements made by our celebs on national television, most of them clearly inept to be representing the general public.

My immediate thoughts after this went back to Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden who's comments didn't quite go down well with certain sections. Referring to India as a third world country Hayden said - "One of the things I love the most about India, is that you walk around the back of the hotel, and there's a man who's selling peanuts on the street for one cent a month, and he holds his head so high, and is so proud, as if he was making $2 million a month. There is a large portion of India that is third world that is below the poverty line. But from my experience, it is those people who I admire the most. They are the ones who send out the messages of love and passion and have that amazing enthusiasm for life. I greatly admire, and appreciate, all the wonderful sentiments they have conveyed to me over the years, and for anyone to suggest otherwise is way off the mark."

It is rather unfortunate that we ourselves fail to understand this. And our obdurate views also need to change, probably. In an optimistic sense, this scourge of terrorism could well be the catalyst that we needed to stand up for a cause, spirited, united and be heard as one. Hopefully things will change.

Cricket's not just Mumbai....

Mumbai and cricket are probably like the fish in water. They are quite inseparable. A place with impeccable cricketing pedigree. The talent that crops up from this part of the nation is noteworthy for it has produced many a gem time and again. Be it Vijay Hazare, Polly Umrigar, Sunil Gavaskar, Dileep Vengsarkar or Sachin Tendulkar. All of them, connoisseurs of the game who brought joy to millions of cricket fans around the globe.

For long cricketers from Mumbai have had an edge over their counterparts from other parts of the country. Samir Dighe, Paras Mambhrey, Ajit Agarkar, Wasim Jaffer had limited talent and ended up representing the country for a substantial period of time with not much impact on the national scene. While Agarkar and Jaffer have had their share of success, in hindsight their performances have hardly been consistent given the opportunities they've had.

Indian cricket is witnessing the transition of a team formed by individuals that made the country's national team a potent force to reckon with. A team game no doubt which produced players of such great repute worthy of emulation. It is almost the end of an era. Kumble and Ganguly have moved on. Sooner or later the remaining part of the "Fab4" will leave on their own terms. The void is massive and to fill it up is difficult but not impossible.

While the selectors grapple to find suitable replacements for the future, the obvious question is who next? Rohit Sharma, Badrinath, M.Vijay, Suresh Raina, Mohammad Kaif, Yuvraj Singh instantly come to mind, a mixture of youngsters and the tried and tested lot. The talent is available, but it is imperative to fill the slots with the right players. Rohit Sharma, Badrinath, Yuvraj Singh have been knocking on the doors for quite a while now. And it only makes sense for the selectors to pick the most suitable player irrespective of any bias whatsoever.

Dravid not being amongst the runs is a cause for concern, for the last two years have been forgettable for “THE WALL”. While it is premature to even think of a replacement for Dravid, the topic was subject to discussion in the recently concluded test series against Australia. Former players, however have been quite one sided in their views.

While Ian Chappell felt M.Vijay could be drafted in to the middle order considering his impressive temperament in the Nagpur test, Ravi Shastri's constant mention of Rohit Sharma was notable throughout. So much so that Ian Chappell retorted back to Shastri if his preference was due to the fact that the southpaw hailed from his state Mumbai. In an another interview to a television channel Sunil Gavaskar was heard overrating Rohit during a discussion on who was best suited to replace Dravid if his form deteriorated further.

Rohit Sharma no doubt is a great talent, a natural strokemaker, already displaying traits of a seasoned batsman. His drives of the backfoot are elegant as he stands tall, dispatching the fast bowlers with poise.

Indian cricket is not just about Mumbai, Bangalore or Delhi and former players need to be non-biased in their opinions. While there is no harm in pointing out an individual who stands out, it is imperative on their part to mention other players in the reckoning and discuss about the areas of improvement. And to do that they ought to have an understanding of the performances in the domestic circuit.

Afterall a word of praise or two from the 'legends' can only make a world of good for the players and the game even more competitive.

Reverse Swing

Australia v India, 2nd Test, Sydney, Day 5, India chasing a target of 333 runs were in a comfortable position until the dreaded finger of Steve Buckner went up, saw India's formidable batting line-up collapse. Rahul Dravid, who battled to 38, was sturdy when he pushed his pad forward to Symonds and hid his bat and gloves behind his front leg. The Australians yelled and India's comfortable position of 3 for 115 was soon to be 6 for 137. Gilchrist no doubt has been one of the game's greatest ambassador and his attitude nothing short of exemplary. For someone who volunteered to walk without waiting for the umpire's decision, the voiceforous appeal coming from Gilchrist was quite surprising. India eventually lost the match they deserved to win considering the nature of events that unfolded over the five days of the Sydney test.

Cricketers for long have been successful in making a transition to the media as writers and commentators. But given the spate of autobiographies cropping up, they might as well be successful marketing executives. John Wright's Indian Summers gave an insight into the Indian dressing room and more recently Marcus Trescothick's revelations about the use of mint to shine the ball during Ashes 2005. Adam Gilchrist's comments questioning the game's most revered player over the monkey gate incident in his autobiography "True Colors" is possibly headed in the same direction as the rest.

All Gilchrist has done is create curiosity in people's mind by raking up an issue that was amicably thought to be resolved between the two sides. The hype is a great marketing strategy and will help keep the cash registers ringing. If Tendulkar's statements have been contradicting as stated by Gilchrist then Michael Clarke's presence as witness in the hearing doesn't even stand a chance. Having edged the ball to Rahul Dravid at first slip, Clarke stood his ground as if nothing had happened while the Indian's celebrated his dismissal. In one of the matches in the same series the Australian players were found not appreciating the little master's century, very unlike Australian. So much for playing the game in the right spirit.

At a time when the Aussies are struggling to cope with the reverse swing on Indian soil, this one by Gilly might just go down the legside.

The Retrospective.

If October 2nd was a dry day for liquor lovers, it certainly was a dry day of sorts for me. Not that i was exasperated for not having laid my hands on liquor (am not a booze freak anyways) but it was a day when i was totally sapped and probably let myself and a team of 14 individuals down. That day when i felt distraught with my own actions.

The finals of the corporate cricket tournament between AOL & Wipro was scheduled for October 2nd at 9 a.m. The team had to be on the field an hour early. We had to win the match as there was quite a lot at stake. Another task i had in mind was to go for dandiya the previous night with a few friends. The plan was simple - I'd spend time at the dandiya party till 1 a.m, get some sleep and go for the match fresh the next morning. Little did i know what was in store the next day. Sometimes its the retrospective that helps you judge better - for better decisions in future, hopefully.

I must admit i had a blast at the dandiya party. But for some reason i was able to leave the venue only at 2 a.m. Saw my friends off and was home at 3 a.m. Two hours of sleep is by no means satisfactory considering the fact that i had to spend 4 hours on the field. Corporate events may not be as competitive as the regular league matches. But once on the field you don't want to be giving anything less than 100% for that is a great lesson sport can teach any individual. I was like an insomaniac clearly not feeling comfortable. One of my teammate asked me about my red-eyed eyes. For once i wished it had rained like crazy and the match got shelved. Anyways once on the field the everything else becomes immaterial.

Wipro batted first with former India batsman Sujith Somsundar in their ranks, was dismissed early. Despite the plethora of extras conceeded we kept the opponents under control who were 4 wickets down for 60 runs. For me the nightmare was just about to begin. A wicket-keeper's feel good factor is pretty much like a batsman hitting the first few balls he faces right in the middle of the bat. The sweet sound from the willow charges you up. Similarly, a keeper feels good when the ball lands with a thud straight into the center of the gloves. When that doesn't happen then something is certainly wrong.

It was terribly hot, I felt weak, feeling drowsy and was unable to squat well. But i couldn't show it out as the keeper forms the backbone of a team. It showed in my body language when i wasn't at my vocal best. Just when we thought we were cruising along well the new batsman edged an outswinging delivery. It went low to my right, hit the tip of my glove and was past me even before i could realise. When the ball is low, going away from you the best possible way is to stay low (knee bent) that enables the keeper to enable a smooth finish. Clearly I was late without the intended focus on the ball, a catch i would have snatched up on any other day.

The batsman eventually went on to score more than 50 runs that enabled Wipro to defend a formidable 180 in 20 overs. In the break i was down and out physically although few of my teammate's tried to cheer me up. I'd paid for my mistake overnight. The only way out now was to compensate with the bat and try to win the match for my team. I did my best batting reasonably well scoring at close to 10 runs per over and in the process managed to reach 100 in the 11th over as expected. At times i couldn't run those singles which i could have at relative ease, had cramps and felt like vomiting. My first thoughts were about the Dravid's and Tendulkar's playing a 5-day test match at Cochin or Vizag where the temperature can be unforgiving. And here i was, a non-entity who was passionate about the game playing a 20 over game in relatively better conditions.

We needed 80 runs from 8 overs with 8 wickets in hand. From now on it was a matter of sticking at the crease as long as possible and keep the score ticking. A realistic target for sure and a gettable one. By then i was watching the ball really well until the first ball of the 13th over when i top edged a short ball to a fielder at deep square leg.The bowler yelled as i walked back making it evident that he'd broken a partnership that would have seen AOL through for i was determined to finish the game at any cost. There was a great sense of resentment morseo since the drop catch played on my mind throughout. Eventually we lost the match and the finals by 10 runs. Ironically the batsman received the man of the match award while my teammates teased me saying i should have got the award instead.

As i mentioned earlier the level of competence isn't quite as comparable to the highest level. But for an individual such experiences, emotions are similar irrespective of the league one represents. The drop catch reminded me of Herschelle Gibbs who dropped Steve Waugh's catch in the 1999 world cup that helped Australia go through the finals. Incidentally Steve Waugh was famously quoted as saying "Son you've just dropped the world cup". My inability to finish the game later reminded me of the famous innings by Tendulkar against Pakistan in 1999-2000 in Chennai when he battled all odds with a severe back spasm scoring 136 before holding out to Saqlain Mushtaq. That loss in particular still continues to haunt Sachin.

I am no Gibbs or a Tendulkar but the fact is that i could relate to what these legends must have gone through. And to play under such pressure physically and emotionally at the highest level takes tremendous effort. As for the common man it is rather easy to be a couch critic and lament at these players when they have had a bad day on field. The underlying fact is that every athlete tries to give his 100 percent or more when he performs. Over a period of time they become champions who in the process toil hard relentlessly. It doesn't take much effort to comment on a drop catch of a Brett Lee delivery bowling at 150kmph, ridicule a 7-time Tour de France winner in Lance Armstrong with dope charges or a 8-time Grand Prix winner in Valentino Rossi. But to emerge victorious after every possible adversity like these champions do requires great effort and courage. Criticism is fair when it is constructive.

Michael Jordan in one of his quotes said - "I've always believed that if you put in work results will come. I don't do things half-heartedly. Because i know if i do, then i can expect half-hearted result". As for me it was a day that taught me a great deal. It was a lesson well learnt and that would be not to do things half-heartedly and to get one's priorities right.

Cricketing Apartheid

"It's nothing but a form of apartheid when the board dictates that you can play with X but not with Y.", Kapil Dev was quoted as saying referring to harsh treatment of ICL players by the BCCI.

Clearly some strong words by the legendary all-rounder expressing his displeasure over the standoff between the BCCI and the ICL or the rebel league. It doesn't come as a surprise when decisions taken by the BCCI, more often that not seem extremely immature. There seems to be no respite in the board's bitterness towards the ICL ever since its inception.

While the BCCI chances upon every opportunity to cold shoulder the ICL, the players in its own backyard aren't spared either. It was nothing short of a shocker when the BCCI decided to preclude the participation of its players (V.V.S Laxman, Piyush Chawla and Ajit Agarkar) in the English county circuit involving ICL players. This stance by the board whose sole objective lies in improving the game and provide support to its players is devoid of any logic and commonsense.

Over the years world cricket has been witness to the inability and inefficiency of its governing body (ICC) to take tough stands on its member associations and in tackling issues especially on the game's richest board. There is little doubt over BCCI's hegemony in world cricket. However, it does not have any morality in initiating decisions that could hinder the game or its players. To say the ICL is an "unrecognized" format of the game - is just a subterfuge. With the second season due to begin, one would expect to see the ICL fight for its recognition with the ICC or in the courts with some vigor. A lot of questions continue to remain unanswered and the answer is quite simple. If soccer can have different leagues in one nation then why not cricket?

To forbid players from playing based on such reasons seems just irrelevant clearly indicative of a restriction in freedom of movement which wouldn't stand in the court of law. Over the years soccer and handball have had similar issues eventually impacting world sport. One such case was by Belgium player Jean-Marc Bosman. Bosman’s contract with Belgium club side RFC Liege had run out and he wanted to be transferred to French club Dunkerque. RFC Liege, however, refused to let Bosman leave without the payment of a transfer fee which Dunkerque were unwilling to pay. Bosman claimed that as a European Union citizen, he possessed the right to "freedom of movement" within the European Union if he wished to.

Another case that had a major impact was the ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) involving a Slovakian handball player Maros Kolpak. Kolpak was employed as a professional by a German second division team. As a national of a then non-European Economic Area (EEA) state, Kolpak was not considered by the German regulator to qualify for the benefits emergent from the decision in Bosman case. On this basis the Handballbund club limited the number of non-EEA nationals which a team could field in any one professional fixture. Kolpak suggested that an association agreement between Slovakia and the European Union entitled him to be treated in the same manner as an EEA national as regards treatment once in employment.

The implications of the above cases were largely significant and one among them was the "quota system", that limited the number of foreigners in a team was illegal. This decision augured well for the players and EPL teams such as Arsenal and Chelsea. Meanwhile the debate ceases to rest either within the ECB (England & Wales cricket board)on the Kolpak issue (dual nationality) in county cricket or the FIFA, suggesting for a "6+5" proposal (6 national & 5 foreign players in a team) which if implemented is certain to be challenged again by the EU Law and the ECJ which prohibits any discrimination based on nationality.

Cricket unlike soccer is not a ubiquitous sport restricting itself to a handful of countries. Until very recently, county cricket in the U.K was the only professional format which recruited foreign players to enhance the domestic competition. However unlike soccer cricketing nations thrive on the success of its national teams. And with not enough money in the domestic circuit, for the players a stint with a county team in England meant - great experience in enhancing skills and a sense of financial security. However with mounting broadcast rights, sponsors and new leagues like IPL and ICL cropping up the players are in a better position unlike the ones in the past.

The ICL however has reasons to be optimistic having found some support with the England and Srilanka cricket boards. The Lankan board's decision to allow its rebel players to participate in their domestic competition's might have made the BCCI crimson with embarrassment. Specially coming from a senior statesman like Arjuna Ranatunga who heads Srilankan cricket and regarded as an individual responsible for Srilanka's cricketing renaissance makes it all the more significant.

The ICL certainly has its limitations which probably doesn't align with the BCCI's objectives and the way it functions. Country representation, selection issues are some concerns. But to treat the rebel league and its representatives as pariah is setting a sad example. If the BCCI has any objections with the rebel league it has to take it up on a different platform. It's high time cricket had its own Bosman's and Kolpak's to fight against the system and get rid of the monopoly of the board's on its players.

An article by Simon Boyes from the Nottingham Law School clearly sums it up - "It ensures that sporting institutions have the power to promote a sport in a manner which they consider to be the most consistent with their objectives, provided that their choices do not give rise to discrimination or conceal the pursuit of economic interests."

At the end of the day one has to realize that an average sports persons' career lasts for not more than 5-6 years. Very few manage to be at the peak consistently and it only makes sense to maximize the opportunities in the short span. To deprive them of their bread and butter would be insane.

Setting the Benchmark - The Aussie way

Australia's rise in world cricket over the years doesn't come as much of a surprise considering the kind of effort that has gone into developing the game. From investing in the grassroots to creating the right environment for cricketer's to hone their skills to managing the players', the results are apparent. A great team effort marked by the presence of shrewd individuals comprising of former players in the administrative ranks in concoction with a team of spirited athlete's on field testifies their dominance. In short there has been a great deal of emphasis laid on creating an effective work ethic that has helped them succeed.

Every administration has it's share of failures and cricket Australia is no different. There is little doubt their system has been infallible. However what sets them apart from the rest is their attitude towards the game as a whole - Execution of plans with a clear vision and their ability to learn from mistakes.

The recent incident involving Andrew Symonds after being sent back home in the event of missing out on a team meeting (who went out fishing instead) indicates the level of commitment expected by an individual regardless of one's position within the team. Symonds whose commitment to the game has been found wanting had left the Australian management in a rage. The aftermath was quite evident when cricket Australia with the leadership group decided to castigate Symonds leaving the all-rounder to ponder over his future.

Michael Clarke, a close friend of Symonds, along with coach Tim Neilsen and captian Ricky Ponting who as part of the leadership group decided it was time to take a call and that Symonds had to get his priorities right. There were no half measures in invoking the decision. Michael Clarke's statement later summed up the entire issue on how coveted a position it is to be part of the team. A clear demarcation between personal and professional relationships.

Clarke on quote said "It's so hard to play for this team. In my opinion we are the greatest sporting team in the world, and we have standards. They may be higher than other teams, but if you don't fulfil those standards, unfortunately, you're not going to be a part of our squad... The main concern for us as a leadership group and a team is commitment to the team. That isn't just about on the field - that's off the field, that's attitude. There are a number of things we believe he wasn't fulfilling."

Symonds might have had his own share of issues with the board, the infamous racial incident with Harbhajan Singh being the most prominent. While the punishment may sound harsh , cricket Australia's support to athlete's in distress deserves to be applauded. Afterall the Aussies are know to set high standards for themselves.

There are few who believe the issue is too trivial. However this isn't the first of its kind. Ricky Ponting earlier in his career was given a mouthing after his behaviour off the field wasn't going to help his cause if he was to be considered for the Australian captaincy after Steve Waugh's retirement. Shane Warne, who many believed was the best in the business to take over the reigns never had the honour of captaining his country, eventually losing out on the vice-captaincy to Adam Gilchrist owing to his constant misdemeanours.

There are a lot of lessons cricketing bodies specially the Indian (BCCI) and Pakistan Board's (PCB) can learn, who under their ranks have players under severe scrutiny on and off-field. Be it the slapgate incident involving Harbhajan Singh, Shoaib Akhtar & Sreesanth's antics or Mohammad Asif who seems to be reeling under the shadow of his disgraced bowling counterpart. Make no mistake - For these athlete's to emerge successful despite their struggles is a commendable feat. However there is little doubt that early success in sport or in any other walk of life can alter an individual's psyche.

Word's of encouragement goes a long way in motivating an athlete. Rather than leaving the player in a lurch, the Australian board in saying the player is welcome into the team at a later stage has done just that. Be it providing Symonds with ample support or Shaun Tait's recuperation after mental and physical exhaustion.The player's need to be made aware of their importance within the team and that nothing can be taken for granted, for there are player's waiting in the wings for over 10 years just to get a look-in. Ask Michael Hussey, Misbah-Ul-Haq or S.Badrinath and they would nod their heads in unison.

Every individual evolves with his own set of qualities and ideologies. And there are very few who despite constant success and adulation continue to remain grounded. A handful of players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Adam Gilchrist, Kumar Sangakara and Steve Waugh are worthy of a mention. The board's need to realise that they have an obligation towards educating players rather than avoid embarassment at a later stage.

There's more to it than just educating a player. Respecting the player is of paramount importance that is seldom the case in India. There's little doubt cricket in India rides high on emotions. Saurav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid instantly come to mind, having been omitted from the one-day squad in preference to the youngesters.

Ganguly, despite his high handedness and undoubtedly one of the most successful captians in Indian cricket definitely brought in a different prespective to the game exhibiting a great sense of passion and was instrumental in nurturing the youngsters. Rahul Dravid on the other hand, quite reticent in contrast to Ganguly, epitomized an individual with great discipline and grit. The least the board can do is to provide them with an opportunity to have a graceful exit, for their contribution towards the game has been impeccable. The BCCI in the recent past had to be alarmed when it was oblivious in honouring Anil Kumble's feat of 600 Test wickets. The list is endless and the discussions could go on and on.

The Australian board in complete contrast surely knows how to treat its heroes. To say Steve Waugh's contribution to the game has been remarkable would be an understatement. With all due respect, cricket Australia provided him with a mandate to end his eventful career while still on top of his game giving him an opportunity to sign-off the game in his own way at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) in 2004. On similar lines Tim Nielsen, the Australian coach when asked about a replacement for Matthew Hayden for the next worldcup iterated - "We really do think it's important to respect senior players' ideas of how they'd like to go out, as long as they're still performing and contributing to the group."

Clearly the Australian's have set the benchmark. If only the rest of the cricketing world could emulate from them, the game would be a lot better.

Thank you Abhinav Bindra

"If better is possible,good is not enough!"

The month of August holds a greater significance in India's history.Though there isn't one in comparison to August 15, we probably have a lesser but yet significant date in August 11 that is worth a marking on our calendar's and memories.That day when Abhinav Bhindra created history by winning the first ever individual gold that's been eluding for years.

For long we've been witness to cricketing wins uniting the nation in every possible aspect.The scene was no different after Bindra's riveting performance in China.From TV channels flashing with breaking news throughout the day, mail forwards, to "You've made us proud" sms'es exchanged, Bindra's win at Beijing was ubiquitous and rightly so.The aftermath of the effect was palpable.There is little doubt, sport once again proved to be the binding factor.

Lets face it.At a time when everyone hoped for a better performance than Athens 2004 with a touch of optimism from a select few, Bindra's feat is nothing short of a sporting spectacle considering the fact that we have a dearth of Olympic heroes.A concoction of self-belief, effective work ethic and perseverance that eventually paid off, the hallmark of a winner.To be witnessing Bindra stand on the podium with the National Anthem at the backdrop was so overwhelming.A poignant moment in our sporting history hard to describe.

Thanks to Bindra, for once a country of over a billion has an Olympic hero to brag about.Such is the irony indicative of the state of affairs when it comes to Olympic sports in India.The victory is an apt response to all the cynics who believed in the games not able to create an impact with the masses.Bindra's triumph at Beijing could just be the catalyst that was much needed.Will it inspire younger athletes? Hopefully,Yes.But to expect the same out of the sponsors would be premature given the fact that there is very little exposure of such athletes in comparison to cricket.

While the euphoria will continue to reside, there are valuable lessons to be learnt from the games.With hardly any assistance from the government it is a fine example of an individual succeeding with an effective support system (an Olympic standard shooting range in house) in the family, a far cry in Indian sports.

While it is necessary to savour the victory it is also about taking positives from the Olympics.Despite the losses the Indian contingent has put up some inspirational performances in the form of debutant's Saina Nehwal,Jitender Kumar,Anup Sridhar and few others progressing through.The experience at the Beijing Olympics for the youngsters is invaluable and is certain to hold them in good stead in the future.With age on their side these athletes are sure to make a mark at the world stage sooner.

"Be the change you want to see" - We've had a plethora of discussions and ideas to improve the state of sports but at the end of the day it boils down to execution which depends on the mindset of people running the show.It is time the government and the sporting bodies pull up their socks, got rid of the unprofessional set up that looms large and invest in creating an effective system.It is imperative to realise the kind of talent available within the country, back deserving athletes to the core and nurture them into being future Olympians.It is time to let go the ego and learn from countries like China and Australia and instill a strong sporting culture in terms of setting up academies on par with best in the world, offer athletes with sponsorships to train abroad and develop better infrastructure.

The rise of the Indian Railways, a case study in management circles is a fine example indicative of the advantages in forging a public-private partnership provided it is carried out with a vision.The federations can take cue from the success story of the Railways.A conjunction with the best sports management groups like the IMG could be a postive step in initiating change.

Lets be optimistic and hope victories such as these catapult into more such sporting wins in future.Only time will tell if history will repeat or if its going to be a flash in the pan.But for now its time to bask in the glory of an momentous occasion we've never been privileged to be a part of.

Thanks Abhinav..

From Mt.Abu to Jodhpur.....my favorite bus journey!

Thoughts, in a lot of ways are like the highway routes which connect to one another at some point of time.Incidentally this week has been full of journey's.First it was chennai and then to the temple town of Madurai for a U.K friend's wedding.It is a mere coincidence as i write this piece on one of the "most eventful bus journey" i've had.My return trip from Madurai was booked on airavata, supposedly one of the better luxury buses that exist.It costed around 450 Rs for which one gets to experience good pushback seats, a fully airconditioned bus with blankets provided to feel warm for those who aren't fortunate enough to be accompanied by hot girls and a complimentary water bottle that the customers can avail. With the roads leading to bangalore not upto the mark i realised travelling in the best bus might not be all that luxurious eventually.

It was past midnight when the driver stopped for a break and as it took off i lost sleep with my heads bouncing as the bus traversed through the even more depleted roads ahead.I started cribbing about my bus rides which very seldom have been good.As i went on a reverie, strangely my mind went back to the previous bus journey,an eventful journey in november from Mt.Abu to Jodhpur.I sat in the same seat(seat.no39) on the second last row - aisle seat on the right hand side!I wouldn't stop laughing thinking about the Jodhpur trip as the old man next to me continued to stertor right into my ears at a few good decibels .My immediate thoughts were about Mals (Malavika),tina (Sonatina),Karishma,Hayan and Divya.I vaguely remembered a few moments of that ride from Abu to the Blue city.

In the entire trip the only time when we didn't have tickets was from Abu to Jodhpur.After an eventful jeep ride from Dilwara temples to the city center, thanks to the driver's(Bhavani alias Nandi) antics, myself,mals and karishma went looking for tickets to Jodhpur which was hard to get by whilst tina,hayan and divya ordered some gujarati thali.Eventually we managed to get 6 "deluxe" bus tickets in the only available bus for the day.The ride to Jodhpur was memorable in more than one ways completely in contrast to the Baroda-Mt.Abu journey but had a few similarities with the airavata one.Little did we know the "deluxe" bus would be so terrific.It was sans push back seats,levers,suspension and even windows in that cold winter.Tina sat next to me and i remember both of us having a good laugh as i exclaimed "Oouch..!" when i parked my butt on one of the "push-back" levers only to realise later that they had been made non-functional throughout.

The bumpy ride was on as everyone's head almost hit the top.Mals and Karishma sat next to each other to my left.Later, i guess karishma decided to have an entire seat in front of me and her long legs hit mals at most times.Barring Hayan who had a gift to doze off anywhere i presume the rest had a bit of a nightmare.And to add to the fun midway a gay couple left Divya a touch dazed.I vividly remember one guy sitting on the other's lap as they downed some drinks during the break.The whole bus was asleep as it halted for a break during mid-night.I felt hungry since i hadn't had sandwich along with the rest when we kicked off.It was dark and silent and i couldn't reach for the sandwich conscious of awakening my fellow passengers due the rumbling noise from the plastic bags.I finally managed to get hold of it after 5min search.The whole night was spent finding a suitable position to fall asleep trying to avoid the chill (thanks to the windowless bus) and the levers from poking me again on the back.And everytime i thought i had a comfortable one ,was greeted by a set of humps all thanks to the the bus without suspension.Towards the end when i did manage to get some sleep we'd arrived at Jodhpur!

As we got down the bus early morning we had chai(more than one) on a road side stall enroute to the guest house and had a great time sharing our thoughts on our overnight trip.The best part of the overnight trip was everyone enjoyed it thoroughly,which could have beeen otherwise if we'd made a fuss about it.The first sight of jodhpur was filth all around.We were greeted by Shakti Singh who owned the guest house.As we sat on the terrace facing Merangarh fort (a remarkable sight) i must say all of us were impressed by Mr.Singh's hospitality.Not only did he get us masala chai(again!) & breakfast,but also made sure we had a good time,explaining about the fort and Jodhpur in general(this was around 5-6 a.m) and organised the auto trip for the entire day.

That to adapt to conditions at times,enjoy the moment and share them is what travel can teach you.It was great fun nevertheless.

My First SOLO Bullet ride - 700km

Bangalore - Kolar -Palamner-Chitoor-Ranipet-Chennai (Approx.700Km).

Return:Chennai-NewECR-Mahabalipuram-Kanchipuram-vellore-Bangalore highway NH46,NH7 Krishnagiri-Hosur-Bangalore)

A trip for my MOM !

Great sportspersons are always worth emulating often in their approach towards life .Their quotes in a lot of ways reflect the individual's attitude, character.Some of my favourite quotes are by legends who've struggled in life to be where they are.

I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying - "Michael Jordan"

He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life - "Mohammad Ali"

Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It's not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything - "Mohammad Ali"

This was my first ever solo ride and is quite close to my heart.I've tried to pen down every moment of the ride

Why did I ride?
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In 25 years i must admit, i've always been close to my friends than with any cousin of mine.There's hardly been any proximity or the much needed connectivity specially with the one's on my dad's side.So much so that its been almost 10-11 years since i bumped into some.Probably it was mutual, but i never regret that.Fortunately i've always been around with friends, had the best moments of life and the best of relations.At any given point, i'd prefer the latter without an element of doubt.To be honest, for me having good friend is the best thing to happen than a obligated relation.

I guess the absense of the "Bangalore cousins" resulted the elderly relatives (Uncle's/aunt's) who eventually began bombarding my parents with this question of "Why don't you get your sons along for wedding,upanayam's etc..?".I've been quite adamant in not travelling to a few places in the South because i simply hated being there.To attend a fucntion and meet a few people i didn't connect with was the last thing on my mind and was simply not possible.Over a period of time this got to my mother who insisted that i attend a cousin's wedding in chennai on June 1st.My reply was a simple "NO" and explained my reasons for refraining from such occasions.Before giving up on me she said "Just try making it once and henceforth i shall not pester you in future".

The Ride...... NH4(Hoskote-Kolar-Palamner-Ranipet-Sriperambudur
-Chennai)

After a nice heavy buffet at Harsha's housewarming party,Vegan Shake,coffee and pastry at the coffee day with Ameet the previous night, i woke up late in the morning to answer my mom's "last effort call" in persuading me to come over and the response from me was no different.As i sat reading the newspaper with tea in hand, i just wondered if i could make it to chennai to fulfill my mother's request and if so what was the best way i could do it? I really did't fancy going by train, Bus or even by flight.On the other hand i'd been wanting to do a long ride on my bullet to Badami and Hampi.Call it lack of likeminded compananions willing to travel by bike or procrastination, it never happened but i was so desperate to make the ride happen one day.I just said to myself that if i rode to chennai, attend the wedding for 2 hours and drive back i'd be a happy man! The next moment i called up my mom to inform her that i'd be coming, only to be told i had to be there before 09.00 a.m.

It was 1.00 p.m and the drive to chennai would take atleast 6 hours (approx.330-350 Kms depending on the route) and driving in the night would be hard.Googled a few best routes before i decided upon NH4-the Old Madras route through Kolar, Chitoor, Ranipet, Sriperambudur.Packed my bag, showed up my bullet with the mechanic for a checkup,filled up some engine oil, fuel and finally kicked off at about 3 p.m.All along i thought i had to cover the maximum distance in day light.Having spent the day without breakfast and lunch, my first stop was at Kamat near Hoskote.Ordered for Raagi Dosa, cool drinks and took off.As i enjoyed the thump on NH4 with a great sense of satisfaction little did i realise that the worst was yet to come.Kolar welcomed me with rains, luckily didn't last long.Briefly stopped at a Dhaba where i heard a guy telling his friend "hey alli nodo Jinke marigalu" (metaphorical to chicks)refering to a group of young girls who seemed to be enjoying their weekend!.The reason i say worst was because my helmet didn't have a wiser which would have helped me from the rain falling over my face.And little did i know my jacket would give in to the rains.

After the brief stoppage there was no looking back.I said to myself that the next break would be possibly after 150km.Was a bit harsh on myself but i had to do it if i had to escape from the rains and avoid the night drive.The road on NH4 was just splendid and with the thump reverberating alongside a few songs by Bryan Adams, at no point did i feel like stopping the bike.All the way i maintained a good speed hovering about 90-100 while at times i couldn't resist raising the throttle till 110-120.It was magical to be speeding along for hours together with the breeze straight on the face not having to worry about the traffic, roads, crowd or anything else that you hate in the city.
As i crossed Palamner,Chitoor and entered Ranipet there was a downpour for a while.I was relentless thumping along while i said a bad rhyming joke("PJ") to myself- "I think this place should be called "Rainpet" instead of Ranipet".Probably even the gods felt embarrassed with that when the rains stopped 0.5kms further.

My next much needed "pee" but no "tea" break was during sunset 153kms away from Chennai.Stretched a bit, clicked some pictures and started off.The nightmare was turning out to be true 120 kms to chennai when it rained like crazy.The precipitous rain hit my face like a sting, the eyeshades were wet almost blinding me, my jacket was soaked, the legs were getting heavy with water inside the shoes.I was running against time and there was hardly any place where i could stop for long in the incessant rain.It was instinctive at most times as i drove alongside the white marking in the middle of the road looking through the corner of my eyes.Risky it was, but after a while i was comfortable as i drove for another 40kms.Despite the rains i maintained a good speed zooming past few vehicles almost matching the lightning in the sky.I was nearing Chennai and just when i thought the ride ahead would be smooth, the bike ran out of fuel.I was confident enough of using up a little close to a litre(30 kms) but not more than that.I stopped at the petrol bunk only to be told there was no fuel.It made me worry a bit if there was some sort of a strike with the fuel price expected to increase.The next bunk was 1 km away and to make matters worse there was no fuel again.Drenched completely there was no way i could push the bike if it gave away mid way.Now i couldn't help but curse myself for not filling up the tank in bangalore.Since i'd filled up the tank a few days ago and with not much of travelling in between i thought filling up for 350Rs should be good enough as against an entire 500Rs.Anyway things were better ahead as i found a fuel station and made sure the tank was full this time around.

Chennai beckoned in typical style with a small road side food stall that read "FOOD READY- BAROTTA(read Parota),Chappatai and Dosai".I was extremely pleased for having made so far.My next major task was to navigate through Chennai to reach the wedding hall.Every alternate person i passed through was a "GPS" till i found my way out and must appreciate i was guided in the right direction.Finally reached the destination, parked my bike, called my mom downstairs.She wouldn't stop smiling and told anyone she met that i'd come all the way by bike.I met this kid who was not kiddish called Balaji who'd come down and was amazed when his dad told him that i'd driven all the way.While everyone was fast asleep, alone in the dining hall i was belting away some Uthappam and sweets and belched before catching up with some good sleep.If not for the ride which happened unexpectedly, i had plans of catching up with my friend Ravi Bellur from U.K, whom i'd no chance of meeting up with and also go around the school with Ameet, all of which i missed out on.

Day2:At the wedding Hall:
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I wanted to sleep till 8 a.m the next morning and with the function ending at 10.30 a.m, thought i would end up spending less time getting bored! I woke up to the sound&beat of the "Nadaswaram and Thavil" as early as 4.30 but managed to get some sleep till 7 when my mom woke me saying "get up u are the only one still sleeping in the entire hall" as some curious guests waked past the corridor staring.I dragged on for half an hour when my mom finally decided i had to get up.She was looking great in those "yards" saree.The first thing i asked her was "How long would i need to be here?" since i decided to travel to Mahabalipuram on the famous "ECR"(East coast road)".My presence was required for 15 mins where i had to perform a small procedure of placing rice pops(read puri),flowers etc.in my cousin's(bride) palm thrice.As my mom took me down to the main hall for breakfast expectedly some stared at me moreso for the "pony" and i even overheard some asking their neighbour - "Who's this guy and who's son is he?".Call it public relation or personal relation it was all happening.I finally met my cousins, some who said they couldn't recognize me in this look.10 years isn't a short span and the last 2 years were simply great!.And then each one introduced me to their respective other halves and every relation of their's who'd heard about me but never seen before asking me about the U.K, Europe trips and the cricket stories.All's well and the renewal finally happened!

Interview by kids!!
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I decided to call up Mani who's from Chennai to enquire about the ECR route which helped me and caught with the day's IPL action.The kid balaji sat next to me asking me a myriad of curious queries he had.He told me he was in the 6th standard studying in a Delhi school.Frankly i enjoyed speaking to the small boy than the rest for he didn't show typical childish traits.His mother came over and said her son was kind of hero worshipping "me" after the bike trip and was thrilled to know i'd been alongside Sachin Tendulkar and Dravid.He was a topper in maths, a chess champion at school and aspired to be a doctor.His joy manifolded when i showed him my picture with Sachin.The questions to me ranged from my favorite cricketers, IPL teams, chelsea players, soccer to Ronaldinho.The kid wasn't the only one curious to speak to me but there were two small girls who came up to me asking for how long i'd grown my hair and how i had maintained it for two years with a word of advice. I was called up on the stage to carry out the small procedure which ended even before i'd realized with the pundit handing over a plate with coconut and 1001Rs saying "Son,the money is for you!" and the rest of the plate had to be given back to the bride.I joked to the pundit asking him if i could do that procedure again and the crowd on the stage burst into laughter.It was a win-win situation having spent just 2 hrs at the wedding, made everyone happy with my attendance and had my expenditure almost reimbursed :-)

Towards ECR - Mahabalipuram & the identity crisis...again !!
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Freedom at last.Changed my attire, packed up my bag and bid adieu to all the maami's,maama's and the rest in the hall.The weather was good and i was all set to head to the ECR enroute Mahabalipuram.Mani was spot on with his inputs and all i had to do was ask a few people for ECR.East Coast Road (ECR) is an express highway built along the coast of the Bay of Bengal connecting Chennai to Cuddalore via Pondicherry. A trip along the East Coast Road gives rise to a spectacular scenic beauty with beaches and fishermen hamlets.On reaching Mahabalipuram i decided to visit the world heritage temple and the beach.

For the past few months i've been experiencing an "identity crisis" of sorts because of my pony, i guess!.After being questioned at the Red fort and Qutub minar during my trip to Delhi in February i found myself in a similar situation at the temple's entrance when the security asked me for my passport.He said "U r from India?".I replied "Sir, Bangalore-25 years!".He smiled at me saying "Aaapko Hindi maalum hai" to which i replied back in my broken Hindi saying "Haan sir maalum hai!".The last time i'd been there was on a school trip in 1998.

It was past 1 p.m and with the heat getting unbearable i wanted to make my way back to Bangalore.With no sense of direction i stopped to speak to a cab driver to decide upon the most viable routes.The driver said it would be 350km to Bangalore through Chengalpettu,Kanchipuram(Outskirts) and vellore.The road leading to NH46 was good and my next stop was at the Silk city-Kanchipuram.Had some good food at the Saravana Bhavan Hotel near the bus stand kicked off at3.15 p.m and in no time was on the Bangalore Highway.To say the the national highway(NH46) was outstanding would be an understatement.The last time i was witness to such magnificient roads and landscape was during my trip to Ireland in 2007.The NH46 along with NH7 and NH4 is part of the golden qualdilateral project initiated by Atal Behari Vajpayee.Filled up the tank, plugged in my ipod and what better way to kick-start the remaining 250kms with "Yeh jo Des" from Swades.Taking frequent breaks in between was imperative but with such great roads, the thump which was like music to the ears, scenic landscape breaking was not an option unless i really needed one.

A nightmare's nighmare & Lance armstrong's Maillot Jaune !
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There was a loud thunder followed by lightning and things didn't seem to look good with grey clouds all over.All i had in mind was to cover as much distance possible before i got snarled in the rains.It rained like there was no tomorrow and even if i'd wanted to stop the rains wouldn't in the next 1-2 hours.I had to move.The final 150kms was the worst ride i've had.My hopes of the rains stopping after a while vanished.A helmet sans wiser, an incomplete raincoat - it was like a blind person driving at full speed.With no place to stop on the highway i was soaked and without a break i had a terrible back spasm with my legs begining to ache.I was determined to move on for i realised stopping and getting back in the rain was even painful when i did once.All along i hit 90-100 kmph.It was frightening at times as i saw the signboards marked "Do not drive to hell", "Know Safety No injury,No Safety know injury"!

All through the pain two thoughts came up my mind.I don't know why!.The first was how 7-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong in his autobiography "Its not about the Bike,My journey back to life" details about his struggle with a life threatning Testicular cancer, the death of his team mate on the tour, the flicking in the peloton and ended up winning the Tour de France getting to wear the "Maillot Jaune" (Yello Jersey).The second thought was about this crazy guy called Bear Grylls who presents a survivor series on Discovery channel called "Man Versus Wild".I reached home with a great sense of relief and accomplishment at 20.15.

Final word:
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Looking back i would have liked to

1) do better in terms of planning,preparation
2) Write better hopefully in future when i really feel like again .......

In the end my bike the - "Bullet 350" was the winner.All i could do was marvel at how this piece of automobile engineering worked.The bike i'd have with me forever and hopefully take me to places in future.Like every bullet enthusiast my dream is to make it to Leh-Ladakh and Bhutan some day!.

This is for you Maa....

Cheers,
Karthik.