Shouts against corruption?? How many times have we seen that before? But a Rajini movie on it?? Should be different! Well, that’s what I thought! AVM, Shankar, Rahman, Sujatha and the star himself coming together ought to be better!! Well, that’s what I thought! The costliest movie ever! The money spent doesn’t impress me, but yeah it is headline news! When so much money is spent it can’t all be that bad! Well, that’s what I thought! The one south indian movie the media country over gave so much importance! The reasons probably are what have been mentioned above! Hype, so much so, that it sparked off comparison as to whether Rajini is a brand as big as Amitabh or probably Shahrukh! When the media promotes I should have known that it is more a commercial showstopper than anything else! Well, I should’ve known!
So I thought now there’s a movie I should not miss! Being a tamilian, I cannot miss a Rajini movie can I?? I saw the movie so late that I became an outcast till then! Finally I thought I need to break the shackles! So I did go see the movie! I’m always called a biased fellow. Biased against bad movies! Unfortunately, a lot of Rajini movies do fall in that category... Though, movies like Annamalai, Baadshah will be in my all time favourite list for a long time!
Sivaji – It’s a movie for Rajini fans - ONLY. A rank outsider will never remotely connect with it, leave alone liking the movie. A good movie watcher (I consider myself to be one :P :P) will forgive the numerous pitfalls in the movie for one and only one reason! It’s a Rajini movie. Even before I take my seat I don’t expect anything! The only reason that Sivaji disappointed me was because of the hype it created! Understandable, coz when one spends so much money making a movie he would want to make it all back and more!
If someone can give u a brief of the first half in 10 minutes, believe me you can watch the second and rest assured you’ve seen the best part of the movie. Though the first lays the platform, I guess its about an hour and a half wasted on general cinematics! I still do not understand why this movie needs a romantic quotient, the resultant of which are incorrigibly shot songs! Am a Rahman fanatic and even a recorded sneeze of his is music to me! So one won’t be surprised to know I loved the music! The first half in a nutshell is the introduction of the hero, villain, heroine, and hero’s intention of doing service and why the villain has a problem about it! This strewn with a few songs, fight sequences and a whole lot of nonsense….
The second half is where the crux is! The renaissance of a man beaten down by the evils in the society! Clichéd? Yeah! But it’s always different when Rajini does it! It sure is! Whether that’s interesting or not is a diff question altogether! But anyways I did enjoy bits of the second half! The original “Shtyle” was back in full swing! Rajini’s second incarnation was a little irritating in terms of the attire, but was an eyeful in terms of the style!! The swing, the venom, the fire, the anger all reflects in his walk! Though some of that is a little “punching” the last 30 minutes is a total winner!
My clincher in the movie comes in the first 10 minutes! I’m totally fallen for this gal! Nayanthaara looks like a million bucks! She’s turned into one of these blinders over the last year! And the presence of Shreya through the movie was pleasing! Some of Vivek’s comedy was really good too! Music of course, particularly in the first half fight sequence in the music store where the instrument of fight was played in the background has ARR class written al over it!! But IMO Shankar could have saved a few bucks from the extravagant sets and his histrionic song sequences! But well, we know what to expect from him too!
The white Rajini is a concept beyond me! It’s like looking at a black swan! Or thinking of a Hispanic Tony Blair! As usual, one can’t understand why songs are there in the first place (That is true of most Indian movies, its now a no-brainer as to why they are there) That said, when its ARR making it, I ain't complaining! Though Rajini’s English vocabulary and accent has improved over the years a little less of it wouldn’t have been too bad… His forte is his tamil dialogue delivery and style and I don’t understand why that needs to be spared! There were very few of his well known for “Punch Dialogues” Some dialogues does show Sujatha’s class in it, but I would’ve wanted more of it from a Rajini movie! This movie will do it for him, what Baba failed to... Statistically and financially!! The fight sequences are taken really badly to say the least! Letting Rajini die is a brave move, but we all know there’s more to come! Suman as the bad guy is good! A sea change from his old bell bottom clad cycling days!
The message though is true and a problem to be tackled! Not too sure what the stars did for charity, but what would’ve been more appreciated was if the amount spent on the movie had been seed money for a college or a hospital! We didn’t need a movie to tell us what’s wrong with the country! I would’ve been happier watching one less movie (losing my sanity a little lesser), when someone elsewhere is gaining more sanity and perspective or when some poor guy’s family is saved! Then again, I could’ve chosen not to go to the movie and donated too! Guess I’m flawed too, but not as bad as the movie! Truth remains the “Rich get richer and the poor get poorer” Stating the obvious?? Exactly what the movie does too! “Hey it’s Sivaji Man! COOL!!!!”
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Really made my head Jhoom!
Just when I thought my time was getting too pricey for me to enjoy a sip of… ahem ahem.. and write a blog! Just when I thought I did not have the inspiration to write! Along come two colleagues! Both good friends of mine! (One a gal to add more spice to the story :P :P) They take me to this movie! Well one of them forced me to it, so much so he used the “I come with u – u never come with me when I want” that I stopped using more years ago that I can count with my fingers!
Anyways, we land up in this really good theatre! (From where I come most theatres here seem good!! Albert and Udhayam I still miss u!!) There are some movies which u know wud be good before they start making it! There are some movies that take u by surprise. There are movies that u read good reviews of and then think oh I missed it and u go watch! There are these other movies that before u get into the theatre u now is going to be a harrowing journey! There are these other set which u know wud be bad even before u start making it! I will bet my bottom dollar that this is one that falls in either of the last 2 categories! I whine all the way to the theatre and all thru the movie and the way back and I get told the true fun is in laughing at the movie and not with it!! Believe I did that quite a lot!
The star cast is all impressive to a normal move goer! I come from what I would like to call the beyond the stars elite crowd who watches a movie for what it is and not who’s in it! (Not to mention the oh so many movies of Salma Hayek, Demi Moore and a zillion other pretty women) Ten minutes into the movie most people watching it would realise they are in for a cruel ride! Turns out true when u touch 30 minutes! Nothing significant happened at 30! Nothing significant happened the whole way! Am sure u know what I mean!
The first half is a story where the leads gets lost in their own epic not quite true love stories! Lara, though chic to the eye, has a bad French – hindi accent, if ever there was one! Bobby does full justice being the steely rich guy.. Abhishek is watchable with the slang mundiya English! Priety, well not everyone who speaks with an accent is English… As u can see the plot starts so clichéd and carries on all through! Just before intermission or right after (I wasn’t even noticing at that point) u get to know the stories are conjured up! How many times have we seen it before I wonder??? The leads fall in love during this conversation! All of the conversation happens when they are waiting for a train, and the falling in love part is in under 2 hours! As one amongst those guys wondering if I will be eternally single, it totally beats me people! Seriously!
The second half is how they end up fooling each other as to their love story being true! The clichés continue! Some ideas borrowed too! A Sliver kinda guy who has video cams all over the world and calls his law firm Singh & Smith!, A usual suspect kinda finish where each had picked up stories from materials around them, songs at the drop of a hat, dialogues like “If u tell me an ordinary tom is the Taj”, situational backgrounds from yesteryear bollywood movies, how the movie leads always are the prime focus in dance competitions where 100 other professional dancers participate to name a few!
The second half is way better than the first for a few things! Lara looks much better as a hooker, way better than a Indian with a French accent. She is too classy to be a hooker, but then again the movie never ceased to amaze me! Bobby and Abhi are more bearable! A few funny sequences that I don’t understand why was part of the movie though am happy it was, and for the biggest reason of them all – I knew the movie was soon going to end! Just when I thought that, there came a 20 minute song sequence with the same song over and over!! (Movies with long anthakshari sequences suddenly seemed more acceptable for atleast there are different songs) Finally it did end the way we all know it would!If you have posters of Lara and Priety at home and u also have access to typical Punjabi comedy, or even a Punjabi channel on TV, I suggest u watch all these and stay away from the movie halls to go watch this coz I feel I enjoyed that bit coz my Punjabi sucks!
There were a few good things though! The company… yes ofcourse (Guys I know u would read this, so just trying to be polite!!) , the fact that a promotional credit card bought us tickets at half the price… yes, the fact that two people thought I was as important as the movie is and wanted me to tag along… yes, I was able to enjoy a serving of nachos with jalapenos… yes and that the movie was not as long as any other hindi movie – a big F^&%$#@ yes!!
Anyways, we land up in this really good theatre! (From where I come most theatres here seem good!! Albert and Udhayam I still miss u!!) There are some movies which u know wud be good before they start making it! There are some movies that take u by surprise. There are movies that u read good reviews of and then think oh I missed it and u go watch! There are these other movies that before u get into the theatre u now is going to be a harrowing journey! There are these other set which u know wud be bad even before u start making it! I will bet my bottom dollar that this is one that falls in either of the last 2 categories! I whine all the way to the theatre and all thru the movie and the way back and I get told the true fun is in laughing at the movie and not with it!! Believe I did that quite a lot!
The star cast is all impressive to a normal move goer! I come from what I would like to call the beyond the stars elite crowd who watches a movie for what it is and not who’s in it! (Not to mention the oh so many movies of Salma Hayek, Demi Moore and a zillion other pretty women) Ten minutes into the movie most people watching it would realise they are in for a cruel ride! Turns out true when u touch 30 minutes! Nothing significant happened at 30! Nothing significant happened the whole way! Am sure u know what I mean!
The first half is a story where the leads gets lost in their own epic not quite true love stories! Lara, though chic to the eye, has a bad French – hindi accent, if ever there was one! Bobby does full justice being the steely rich guy.. Abhishek is watchable with the slang mundiya English! Priety, well not everyone who speaks with an accent is English… As u can see the plot starts so clichéd and carries on all through! Just before intermission or right after (I wasn’t even noticing at that point) u get to know the stories are conjured up! How many times have we seen it before I wonder??? The leads fall in love during this conversation! All of the conversation happens when they are waiting for a train, and the falling in love part is in under 2 hours! As one amongst those guys wondering if I will be eternally single, it totally beats me people! Seriously!
The second half is how they end up fooling each other as to their love story being true! The clichés continue! Some ideas borrowed too! A Sliver kinda guy who has video cams all over the world and calls his law firm Singh & Smith!, A usual suspect kinda finish where each had picked up stories from materials around them, songs at the drop of a hat, dialogues like “If u tell me an ordinary tom is the Taj”, situational backgrounds from yesteryear bollywood movies, how the movie leads always are the prime focus in dance competitions where 100 other professional dancers participate to name a few!
The second half is way better than the first for a few things! Lara looks much better as a hooker, way better than a Indian with a French accent. She is too classy to be a hooker, but then again the movie never ceased to amaze me! Bobby and Abhi are more bearable! A few funny sequences that I don’t understand why was part of the movie though am happy it was, and for the biggest reason of them all – I knew the movie was soon going to end! Just when I thought that, there came a 20 minute song sequence with the same song over and over!! (Movies with long anthakshari sequences suddenly seemed more acceptable for atleast there are different songs) Finally it did end the way we all know it would!If you have posters of Lara and Priety at home and u also have access to typical Punjabi comedy, or even a Punjabi channel on TV, I suggest u watch all these and stay away from the movie halls to go watch this coz I feel I enjoyed that bit coz my Punjabi sucks!
There were a few good things though! The company… yes ofcourse (Guys I know u would read this, so just trying to be polite!!) , the fact that a promotional credit card bought us tickets at half the price… yes, the fact that two people thought I was as important as the movie is and wanted me to tag along… yes, I was able to enjoy a serving of nachos with jalapenos… yes and that the movie was not as long as any other hindi movie – a big F^&%$#@ yes!!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
And your footsteps will always fall here.......
Yesterday marked the end of an era. An era of class, artistry, mastery, skill, perfection, courage, spirit, resilience, pride and honour personified on the field. I have been blessed to be a part of this era, where there have been extremely talented cricketers, but extremely few who is even worth comparing to this man. Humble as always he bid adieu yesterday!! And he asked just one question to the public. “Did I entertain??” As if he even had to ask!! The answer was an overwhelming and not surprising, YES!! And am sure he would treasure that than the numerous man of the match awards
Eyes welling up he shared one dream of his that did not come true! To take the Windies back to the dizzy heights of dominance that they once possessed… Though the team could not do it, this individual sure did. The best of the bowlers always thought, on his day, he’s one of the most difficult men to bowl to!! Even the “language” friendly Aussies confessed that this individual was one that they never would sledge, for he is twice as dangerous when provoked
Hands down, he is the most stylish left hander of the last 2 decades. He’s one of those who can take you to the heaven and back with one innings. The one part that am not too impressed with was his susceptibility to controversies. He was caught in too many of those that it started affecting his game at times. He was always a player who produced magic in pieces. Am sure his scoring pattern would be one of the most skewed ones for a player of his class
He stood tall amidst the ruins that the team was! Like a Candle in the Wind! Only the wind was too strong. He is one of the reasons I liked Windies cricket and am sure he’ll be one of the reasons that many youngsters took to or will aspire to take up this game as their path of life. If ever I have a son, I would pray he is left handed.
I bow to thee, Brian Charles Lara, for the great entertainer you have been, for adding craft to an already beautiful game, for adding flair and passion to batting, for all that you did to cricket in general. Finally, For the very fact that we could watch a providential reincarnation, perform to us.
The fact that you did entertain would remain in the memory of each individual that ever was gifted to set eyes on you. It would be etched on the sands of time for generations to see. And I’ll drink to that!! You certainly were one of a kind, and may you rest in peace!!! For, with you dies an era of magnificence… the splendour of which mere adjectives can’t describe.
Eyes welling up he shared one dream of his that did not come true! To take the Windies back to the dizzy heights of dominance that they once possessed… Though the team could not do it, this individual sure did. The best of the bowlers always thought, on his day, he’s one of the most difficult men to bowl to!! Even the “language” friendly Aussies confessed that this individual was one that they never would sledge, for he is twice as dangerous when provoked
Hands down, he is the most stylish left hander of the last 2 decades. He’s one of those who can take you to the heaven and back with one innings. The one part that am not too impressed with was his susceptibility to controversies. He was caught in too many of those that it started affecting his game at times. He was always a player who produced magic in pieces. Am sure his scoring pattern would be one of the most skewed ones for a player of his class
He stood tall amidst the ruins that the team was! Like a Candle in the Wind! Only the wind was too strong. He is one of the reasons I liked Windies cricket and am sure he’ll be one of the reasons that many youngsters took to or will aspire to take up this game as their path of life. If ever I have a son, I would pray he is left handed.
I bow to thee, Brian Charles Lara, for the great entertainer you have been, for adding craft to an already beautiful game, for adding flair and passion to batting, for all that you did to cricket in general. Finally, For the very fact that we could watch a providential reincarnation, perform to us.
The fact that you did entertain would remain in the memory of each individual that ever was gifted to set eyes on you. It would be etched on the sands of time for generations to see. And I’ll drink to that!! You certainly were one of a kind, and may you rest in peace!!! For, with you dies an era of magnificence… the splendour of which mere adjectives can’t describe.
And your footsteps will always fall here!!
Yesterday marked the end of an era. An era of class, artistry, mastery, skill, perfection, courage, spirit, resilience, pride and honour personified on the field. I have been blessed to be a part of this era, where there have been extremely talented cricketers, but extremely few who is even worth comparing to this man. Humble as always he bid adieu yesterday!! And he asked just one question to the public. “Did I entertain??” As if he even had to ask!! The answer was an overwhelming and not surprising, YES!! And am sure he would treasure that than the numerous man of the match awards
Eyes welling up he shared one dream of his that did not come true! To take the Windies back to the dizzy heights of dominance that they once possessed… Though the team could not do it, this individual sure did. The best of the bowlers always thought, on his day, he’s one of the most difficult men to bowl to!! Even the “language” friendly Aussies confessed that this individual was one that they never would sledge, for he is twice as dangerous when provoked
Hands down, he is the most stylish left hander of the last 2 decades. He’s one of those who can take you to the heaven and back with one innings. The one part that am not too impressed with was his susceptibility to controversies. He was caught in too many of those that it started affecting his game at times. He was always a player who produced magic in pieces. Am sure his scoring pattern would be one of the most skewed ones for a player of his class
He stood tall amidst the ruins that the team was! Like a Candle in the Wind! Only the wind was too strong. He is one of the reasons I liked Windies cricket and am sure he’ll be one of the reasons that many youngsters took to or will aspire to take up this game as their path of life. If ever I have a son, I would pray he is left handed.
I bow to thee, Brian Charles Lara, for the great entertainer you have been, for adding craft to an already beautiful game, for adding flair and passion to batting, for all that you did to cricket in general. Finally, For the very fact that we could watch a providential reincarnation, perform to us.
The fact that you did entertain would remain in the memory of each individual that ever was gifted to set eyes on you. It would be etched on the sands of time for generations to see. And I’ll drink to that!! You certainly were one of a kind, and may you rest in peace!!! For, with you dies an era of magnificence… the splendour of which mere adjectives can’t describe.
Eyes welling up he shared one dream of his that did not come true! To take the Windies back to the dizzy heights of dominance that they once possessed… Though the team could not do it, this individual sure did. The best of the bowlers always thought, on his day, he’s one of the most difficult men to bowl to!! Even the “language” friendly Aussies confessed that this individual was one that they never would sledge, for he is twice as dangerous when provoked
Hands down, he is the most stylish left hander of the last 2 decades. He’s one of those who can take you to the heaven and back with one innings. The one part that am not too impressed with was his susceptibility to controversies. He was caught in too many of those that it started affecting his game at times. He was always a player who produced magic in pieces. Am sure his scoring pattern would be one of the most skewed ones for a player of his class
He stood tall amidst the ruins that the team was! Like a Candle in the Wind! Only the wind was too strong. He is one of the reasons I liked Windies cricket and am sure he’ll be one of the reasons that many youngsters took to or will aspire to take up this game as their path of life. If ever I have a son, I would pray he is left handed.
I bow to thee, Brian Charles Lara, for the great entertainer you have been, for adding craft to an already beautiful game, for adding flair and passion to batting, for all that you did to cricket in general. Finally, For the very fact that we could watch a providential reincarnation, perform to us.
The fact that you did entertain would remain in the memory of each individual that ever was gifted to set eyes on you. It would be etched on the sands of time for generations to see. And I’ll drink to that!! You certainly were one of a kind, and may you rest in peace!!! For, with you dies an era of magnificence… the splendour of which mere adjectives can’t describe.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Finally a wake up call to the administration
I’m sure the ramifications of this day will be discussed for a period I cannot count with the fingers in my hand and probably the fruits of it will be reaped till the era of my grand children. This is probably the best thing to happen to Indian cricket and IMO it has been long due… The biggest of the decisions are to scrap the Zonal selection!!!! AWESOME!!!
And the scrapping of the contract system currently in place… and having a bowling coach (I don’t endorse Prasad for this, but I like the idea!! ) and A fielding coach (IMO Robin could make a difference) And a permanent manager and reducing the Ranji elite and every state having its very own cricket academy and probably having a cricket advisory board (Not too sure if the gurus are right up there and having 7 people may be some commotion)
The endorsements I do not really agree… But complacence may set in, may not… Debatable… I do not even want to begin to question the integrity of the players!!!
What prompted such a huge controversy when according to the BCCI ‘the public should not panic coz we only lost a coupla matches and that’s no serious worry!!’ Is it the actual public outcry?? Or is it just that the BCCI has taken a lesson from the so called news channels and have now realised that controversy is the easiest way to become popular?? Or do thet now think that the only way to stay away from deep shit is to be proactive and try and alienate it!!! Worth a thought!
Coming back to the few big decision that this blog is going to address!! Number one’s gotta be Scrapping the Zonal selection… India is a country that sees success in diversity. I do understand, but not with respect to seeing each other differently … SO finally we look at the talent as one pool and pick the best. Will that actually happen is a question that only time can answer… but I would be one of those who would love to see tangible results
Two would be limiting the endorsements!! Interesting considering the BCCI’s stand.. I would like to point out one comment of Jadeja on NDTV (Yes, I started seeing private ‘On for Profit’ news channels… Where I live I don’t have a choice!!) His opinion is the 11 that play for the country contracted to BCCI only coz they can be called the ‘Indian cricket team’ I agree. He goes on to say that they cannot control the life of the cricketers and limiting endorsements may not be an answer to commitment… As I said earlier commitment is not something I do not want to touch upon! But I do not like the way BCCI can control the way cricket is played in India… There are too many things wrong with the BCCI (which shall be addressed at a later point in time) Yet again is money the only reason these people are in it for?? Not too sure considering some have sacrificed a career outside the game for it… is it coz of the money or for their passion of the sport?? I pray it is the latter! Think of the money BCCI makes using their Official status!! Millions of dollars!!
The tangible result of these cannot and more so should not be analysed in the their next tour against B’desh… It needs to wait till after we face the English and more particularly the Aussies! Lets wait and WATCH! And not shun the boys!!
P.S - I take great pain to the fact that the integrity of someone like Sachin has been questioned and that he needs to the come to the media and talk about it!!! And now be issued a notice for that!! - Just a thought and justice shall prevail! So so i would like to think!!
Also the stupid media keeps talking only abt the endorsements and not about the other parts that actually may help the way cricket is played in the country!! Surely justifies my hatred!!
And the scrapping of the contract system currently in place… and having a bowling coach (I don’t endorse Prasad for this, but I like the idea!! ) and A fielding coach (IMO Robin could make a difference) And a permanent manager and reducing the Ranji elite and every state having its very own cricket academy and probably having a cricket advisory board (Not too sure if the gurus are right up there and having 7 people may be some commotion)
The endorsements I do not really agree… But complacence may set in, may not… Debatable… I do not even want to begin to question the integrity of the players!!!
What prompted such a huge controversy when according to the BCCI ‘the public should not panic coz we only lost a coupla matches and that’s no serious worry!!’ Is it the actual public outcry?? Or is it just that the BCCI has taken a lesson from the so called news channels and have now realised that controversy is the easiest way to become popular?? Or do thet now think that the only way to stay away from deep shit is to be proactive and try and alienate it!!! Worth a thought!
Coming back to the few big decision that this blog is going to address!! Number one’s gotta be Scrapping the Zonal selection… India is a country that sees success in diversity. I do understand, but not with respect to seeing each other differently … SO finally we look at the talent as one pool and pick the best. Will that actually happen is a question that only time can answer… but I would be one of those who would love to see tangible results
Two would be limiting the endorsements!! Interesting considering the BCCI’s stand.. I would like to point out one comment of Jadeja on NDTV (Yes, I started seeing private ‘On for Profit’ news channels… Where I live I don’t have a choice!!) His opinion is the 11 that play for the country contracted to BCCI only coz they can be called the ‘Indian cricket team’ I agree. He goes on to say that they cannot control the life of the cricketers and limiting endorsements may not be an answer to commitment… As I said earlier commitment is not something I do not want to touch upon! But I do not like the way BCCI can control the way cricket is played in India… There are too many things wrong with the BCCI (which shall be addressed at a later point in time) Yet again is money the only reason these people are in it for?? Not too sure considering some have sacrificed a career outside the game for it… is it coz of the money or for their passion of the sport?? I pray it is the latter! Think of the money BCCI makes using their Official status!! Millions of dollars!!
The tangible result of these cannot and more so should not be analysed in the their next tour against B’desh… It needs to wait till after we face the English and more particularly the Aussies! Lets wait and WATCH! And not shun the boys!!
P.S - I take great pain to the fact that the integrity of someone like Sachin has been questioned and that he needs to the come to the media and talk about it!!! And now be issued a notice for that!! - Just a thought and justice shall prevail! So so i would like to think!!
Also the stupid media keeps talking only abt the endorsements and not about the other parts that actually may help the way cricket is played in the country!! Surely justifies my hatred!!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Prudence says its Super 6
It’s just a matter of six teams aint it? Or could Whatmore be right?? Are there more Indias and Paks left to be conquered?? Let’s analyse which teams are beatable by the minnows!!
The ones that carry points:
Australia – Too damn difficult…. Current form is not bad at all, the past has always been glorious, and on paper stronger than the minnows by more times that I can count with my fingers. Remember, they have 2 points. A sure shot semi birth
Sri Lanka – Quite difficult … Current form is quite good, they are a charged up lot as always, Vaas and Murali could be too difficult a proposition to handle
New Zealand – Quite difficult too…. One of the teams I think that have it in them to beat the Aussies. They have done it in the recent past and am sure they might be able to do it again… Lou not playing may not be too big an impact IMO. More or less secure semi birth since they carry 2 points!
Windies – Been a good few months leading up to the WC. They’ve won all 3 matches and they beat the Pakis without a blink… The morale must be high and playing on home turf could be an intangible advantage. But with these guys u never know what can snap
The ones that don’t carry a point:
South Africa – The only reason they don’t have points is coz they were in the same group as Australia. This is the only other team that have the potential to beat Australia… I’m tipping they’ll be one of the 4 semis team
England – They are playing cricket the way they know to, and that’s probably not good enough. A potential candidate to be knocked out of the semis.
My take on who can be the semi contenders Aussies is a given more or less, NZ have the point advantage, SA stand a good chance, and its difficult to pick between Windies and Lanka!! This is considering the teams play the same way they have been and they don’t pull their skeletons out
Now that the games start in less than 6 hours time, we will know soon as to how the Phase 2 turns out.
The ones that carry points:
Australia – Too damn difficult…. Current form is not bad at all, the past has always been glorious, and on paper stronger than the minnows by more times that I can count with my fingers. Remember, they have 2 points. A sure shot semi birth
Sri Lanka – Quite difficult … Current form is quite good, they are a charged up lot as always, Vaas and Murali could be too difficult a proposition to handle
New Zealand – Quite difficult too…. One of the teams I think that have it in them to beat the Aussies. They have done it in the recent past and am sure they might be able to do it again… Lou not playing may not be too big an impact IMO. More or less secure semi birth since they carry 2 points!
Windies – Been a good few months leading up to the WC. They’ve won all 3 matches and they beat the Pakis without a blink… The morale must be high and playing on home turf could be an intangible advantage. But with these guys u never know what can snap
The ones that don’t carry a point:
South Africa – The only reason they don’t have points is coz they were in the same group as Australia. This is the only other team that have the potential to beat Australia… I’m tipping they’ll be one of the 4 semis team
England – They are playing cricket the way they know to, and that’s probably not good enough. A potential candidate to be knocked out of the semis.
My take on who can be the semi contenders Aussies is a given more or less, NZ have the point advantage, SA stand a good chance, and its difficult to pick between Windies and Lanka!! This is considering the teams play the same way they have been and they don’t pull their skeletons out
Now that the games start in less than 6 hours time, we will know soon as to how the Phase 2 turns out.
Monday, March 26, 2007
A day of B'days and funerals!!
I turned 25 and I wasn’t feeling great about it in the first place. On the eve and probably around 00 hours when I turned 25, India had the penultimate nail on their world cup dream coffin… I must have spent at least a fifth of my 25 years playing, watching, reading, talking , thinking and of late blogging on/ about cricket. It was pretty painful seeing the team lose and be knocked out. And despite my best guesses it’s kinda apparent that matches were not rigged. (Did Bob’s untimely mishap prevent it is a question beyond me to answer)
What was more infuriating was the pace at which the heroes were written off!!! People taking funerals for the hitherto heroes?? Guys, how would u feel if someone had a mock funeral for your beloved?? (If you don’t feel a thing and you do a mock funeral, I would like to ask providence on why valuable space is blocked up for the other masses) This is the bane of making the great game reach the illiterate/ emotionally freaky/ educated yet uncultured masses… If what was seen on TV was any indication, there is no dearth for these people around the country….
It’s one of those days am ashamed to be an Indian… Not that the team has let the down… Everybody have their share of bad hair days…. One doesn’t chop the head off for that!! You make what amends are needed… Agreed they earn too much money, agreed that their success in life is not directly relatable to success on field… But who is the layman to judge their levels of integrity. They make huge sacrifices and what they earn is the price. Who wouldn’t want more money?? Who wouldn’t wanna cash in on their fame and earn more without doing anything that’s morally bad??
The friggin media is gonna be the end of the world… The day they want them they are heroes, the day they are down they are battered… News in today’s world of “Listed media companies” has lost its meaning… They will run any story that brings in TRP… My kind request is please don’t portray the burning of effigies, mock funeral, setting fire to pictures on the prime news!!!
The takeaways are – Cricket is a sport… For most Indians (including me) it is a religion since I’ve spent more time thinking about it rather than God. I don’t trash god or burn him or beat him when I feel let down… I’ve not been able to find god, for crying out loud :) :)
Do unto others as you would have others do unto you…. Oh my fellow lovers, I can understand the emotions… But don’t be morons… If u hate them don’t watch them… It’s better than beating their families up, or burning them… How sad is it that you made the captain beg you for the safety of the team’s families… Be prudent, be critics, be purists and not terrorists…
What was more infuriating was the pace at which the heroes were written off!!! People taking funerals for the hitherto heroes?? Guys, how would u feel if someone had a mock funeral for your beloved?? (If you don’t feel a thing and you do a mock funeral, I would like to ask providence on why valuable space is blocked up for the other masses) This is the bane of making the great game reach the illiterate/ emotionally freaky/ educated yet uncultured masses… If what was seen on TV was any indication, there is no dearth for these people around the country….
It’s one of those days am ashamed to be an Indian… Not that the team has let the down… Everybody have their share of bad hair days…. One doesn’t chop the head off for that!! You make what amends are needed… Agreed they earn too much money, agreed that their success in life is not directly relatable to success on field… But who is the layman to judge their levels of integrity. They make huge sacrifices and what they earn is the price. Who wouldn’t want more money?? Who wouldn’t wanna cash in on their fame and earn more without doing anything that’s morally bad??
The friggin media is gonna be the end of the world… The day they want them they are heroes, the day they are down they are battered… News in today’s world of “Listed media companies” has lost its meaning… They will run any story that brings in TRP… My kind request is please don’t portray the burning of effigies, mock funeral, setting fire to pictures on the prime news!!!
The takeaways are – Cricket is a sport… For most Indians (including me) it is a religion since I’ve spent more time thinking about it rather than God. I don’t trash god or burn him or beat him when I feel let down… I’ve not been able to find god, for crying out loud :) :)
Do unto others as you would have others do unto you…. Oh my fellow lovers, I can understand the emotions… But don’t be morons… If u hate them don’t watch them… It’s better than beating their families up, or burning them… How sad is it that you made the captain beg you for the safety of the team’s families… Be prudent, be critics, be purists and not terrorists…
Thursday, March 22, 2007
The commerce of cricket!!
Score of dollars are being spent each day on cricket in various ways! Companies who invest in brands actually invest in everything that actually helps them sell it. But for actors, I guess cricket stars are still a primary brand in themselves and primary brand developers with respect to the public at large.
Each major cricketing event is sponsored by some of these big conglomerate houses or the latest funda being “Indian Majors” or “Indian MNC’s”. Some of these sponsors have been dedicated ones, sponsoring games year after year, series after series. It’s a war hard fought than many as to who finally sponsors one of these.
Now considering the amount of money spent/ invested (I personally consider atleast 50% as investment) the stakes are too high… If the TRP’s drop, and drop pretty heavily am not too sure what these sponsors might gain!
So it is imperative on their parts/ for their cause that the origins of these sponsors remain in the competition. Am not too sure if that’s the way it works around the world, but with India I guess that’s kinda true… Despite being called a cricket crazy nation, am not too sure if more than half of the normal people will watch a non- Indian super 8 and thereon…
So considering India’s poor start and the fact that they may go into the super 8 by natural causes, I’m just wondering if one or more of these big money houses would do “what is in their power” to make us reach the next stage?? No insinuations, am not saying anything, no defamation, but to lose half the Indian viewer-ship is too much after the cost incurred….
Just a stray thought! Just an idea of how commercialisation can ruin things…. Another one is news channels, but I’ve said enough on that before… Any thoughts on this guys??
Each major cricketing event is sponsored by some of these big conglomerate houses or the latest funda being “Indian Majors” or “Indian MNC’s”. Some of these sponsors have been dedicated ones, sponsoring games year after year, series after series. It’s a war hard fought than many as to who finally sponsors one of these.
Now considering the amount of money spent/ invested (I personally consider atleast 50% as investment) the stakes are too high… If the TRP’s drop, and drop pretty heavily am not too sure what these sponsors might gain!
So it is imperative on their parts/ for their cause that the origins of these sponsors remain in the competition. Am not too sure if that’s the way it works around the world, but with India I guess that’s kinda true… Despite being called a cricket crazy nation, am not too sure if more than half of the normal people will watch a non- Indian super 8 and thereon…
So considering India’s poor start and the fact that they may go into the super 8 by natural causes, I’m just wondering if one or more of these big money houses would do “what is in their power” to make us reach the next stage?? No insinuations, am not saying anything, no defamation, but to lose half the Indian viewer-ship is too much after the cost incurred….
Just a stray thought! Just an idea of how commercialisation can ruin things…. Another one is news channels, but I’ve said enough on that before… Any thoughts on this guys??
Monday, March 19, 2007
Renaissance time again!!
Here I stand. 5 minutes of silence to one of the greatest exponents of the game! I’ve never seen him play, but if what he did off the field is any indication of his abilities, I gotta say he was awesome!
The SA owes a lot to him. He made them what they are. He kinda founded their beliefs. He helped them, nurtured them and took them wading through the big stage performance in their formative years. And am sure he tried helping our “friendly” neighbours too. But alas, when someone is so committed to suicide who can save him but himself! I don’t mean Bob!!! I mean thy neighbours
I’m sure coaching a team like it would be taxing on anyone. Particularly, for a “firang”. The fact that he must’ve had a torrid time is not surprising by any standards. It is as bad as coaching India. Not 11 people look up to you, 1100 million!! The team is now a disaster. Post the captain, I seriously wonder who is gonna take charge and what misery he’s gonna face. Inzy was a good man-manager; else you can never get a team like that to believe they are one unit.
Why people question the way he died is beyond me!! What has the world gotta do with how he died?? But that’s not a Q that I can answer.. What if it was not nature that killed him? The answer I know is for this Q – Should justice prevail?? Yes…
If only god knew what he was doing to a team like Pak by taking Bob away, am sure he would have thought twice… But with all the injustice in the game, I never really thought God was a cricket lover… (Sachin, Lara et al were created on off days!!) Am not gonna write them off as yet, but with 2 natural setbacks (Bob and Inzy) and a few stupid mistakes that a five year old would laugh at, they aren’t doing themselves any kinda good.
I would love to see them back at their prime… They sure are a side possessed on their day!! And fighters to the death! But are “phoenix” enough to rise back from six feet under the ground?? Only time can tell my love! Only time can tell….
The SA owes a lot to him. He made them what they are. He kinda founded their beliefs. He helped them, nurtured them and took them wading through the big stage performance in their formative years. And am sure he tried helping our “friendly” neighbours too. But alas, when someone is so committed to suicide who can save him but himself! I don’t mean Bob!!! I mean thy neighbours
I’m sure coaching a team like it would be taxing on anyone. Particularly, for a “firang”. The fact that he must’ve had a torrid time is not surprising by any standards. It is as bad as coaching India. Not 11 people look up to you, 1100 million!! The team is now a disaster. Post the captain, I seriously wonder who is gonna take charge and what misery he’s gonna face. Inzy was a good man-manager; else you can never get a team like that to believe they are one unit.
Why people question the way he died is beyond me!! What has the world gotta do with how he died?? But that’s not a Q that I can answer.. What if it was not nature that killed him? The answer I know is for this Q – Should justice prevail?? Yes…
If only god knew what he was doing to a team like Pak by taking Bob away, am sure he would have thought twice… But with all the injustice in the game, I never really thought God was a cricket lover… (Sachin, Lara et al were created on off days!!) Am not gonna write them off as yet, but with 2 natural setbacks (Bob and Inzy) and a few stupid mistakes that a five year old would laugh at, they aren’t doing themselves any kinda good.
I would love to see them back at their prime… They sure are a side possessed on their day!! And fighters to the death! But are “phoenix” enough to rise back from six feet under the ground?? Only time can tell my love! Only time can tell….
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Never speak ill of the Dee(a)D
Now what did David Hookes do?? Was Sunny the one who bet him up? Or were they sharing a coupla beers thinking of the glorious past they had and the possibly great run ins they had? Never speak ill of the Dead.. Never!!!! Now, it was so stupid to comment about the practice in itself. Just coz you didn’t do it does not mean you’re right and just coz someone else did it does not mean he is wrong.
It’s possibly one of the few times when sledging has the right effect at the wrong place…. Ur supposed to get agitated on the wicket and throw your guard away, not off the wicket and run your mouth…. Sunny we all appreciate that you have been a great cricketer… But to talk about sportsmanship or being a gentleman gamesmanship???? Aint that pushing it a little too far…..
Not too far ago did we see the Dada dance semi clad… Not too far ago did we see Bhajji blowing it off on various opponents….. Not too far ago was Shreesanth “not only talk to himself but also to the batsman” after every ball… It’s like a school student whining!!!
And Punter is right in asking us to look at how we have played in the last few years…. We have played it rough and we have given back what was rubbed on us… World is moving fast. People’s span to remember is getting shorter with too much to remember everyday. So u get it, u give it back that very moment. Period.
I do not think sledging is a bad thing to do… And if u cannot give it back, it’s your incompetence… We have read so many mails on how sledging firing back…. It is fun watching it, reading it and talking about it… And again Sunny, what were you thinking
It’s possibly one of the few times when sledging has the right effect at the wrong place…. Ur supposed to get agitated on the wicket and throw your guard away, not off the wicket and run your mouth…. Sunny we all appreciate that you have been a great cricketer… But to talk about sportsmanship or being a gentleman gamesmanship???? Aint that pushing it a little too far…..
Not too far ago did we see the Dada dance semi clad… Not too far ago did we see Bhajji blowing it off on various opponents….. Not too far ago was Shreesanth “not only talk to himself but also to the batsman” after every ball… It’s like a school student whining!!!
And Punter is right in asking us to look at how we have played in the last few years…. We have played it rough and we have given back what was rubbed on us… World is moving fast. People’s span to remember is getting shorter with too much to remember everyday. So u get it, u give it back that very moment. Period.
I do not think sledging is a bad thing to do… And if u cannot give it back, it’s your incompetence… We have read so many mails on how sledging firing back…. It is fun watching it, reading it and talking about it… And again Sunny, what were you thinking
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Advaita?? It's so not true!!
This is definitely not a post on godliness. Infact it is the direct opposite of that. I was a believer in Advaita most times of my life. The other times are governed by my questioning the mere existence of God.
My recent relocation to the carnival of Asia changed it all… The city is filled with Gods.. Goddesses to be precise. I’ve always admired beauty in its obvious forms, but have never found myself staring, ogling or leering at any of the beauties of nature. Dubai changed it all.. I’ve seriously not seen anyplace like this… What is so good and natural in a desert??? FYI most parts of this city is a concrete jungle and it is filled with probably a great mix of the most good looking women in the world
Walk in to any shopping mall and one can have an eyeful and on a crowded day every second girl you set eyes on in better looking that the other. I’ve never seen a Greek goddess in her full glory, but if the descriptions in any of the books I’ve read is any close to what I imagine, every third gal you set sight on is a Goddess.. Believe me am not kidding.. I may not have any statistics to prove the judgement, but when the “Vital statistics” are right, I don’t see anyone raise any question.. Do u?
So what makes this special?? The operating word is mix… Arguably the optimum mix.. There is a right mix of women from varied culture, nation and tradition and each one has got a beauty of its own. There are Lebanese, Jordanians, Syrians, Iraqis, Iranians, Brits, Americans, French, German, selective lot of a very dominant Filipino crowd, Japanese and Chinese, Koreans and of course the dusky Indian beauties
I can’t think of any other place in the world where there exists such a huge population with so varied a mix of cultures. I haven’t travelled around, haven’t seen the world… If I was a guy who lives on punts that’s one punt I would place my bottom dollar on…
If u still can’t imagine what it is like, u got to see it… I see around my office and I don’t see one reason I can concentrate on the work…..
My recent relocation to the carnival of Asia changed it all… The city is filled with Gods.. Goddesses to be precise. I’ve always admired beauty in its obvious forms, but have never found myself staring, ogling or leering at any of the beauties of nature. Dubai changed it all.. I’ve seriously not seen anyplace like this… What is so good and natural in a desert??? FYI most parts of this city is a concrete jungle and it is filled with probably a great mix of the most good looking women in the world
Walk in to any shopping mall and one can have an eyeful and on a crowded day every second girl you set eyes on in better looking that the other. I’ve never seen a Greek goddess in her full glory, but if the descriptions in any of the books I’ve read is any close to what I imagine, every third gal you set sight on is a Goddess.. Believe me am not kidding.. I may not have any statistics to prove the judgement, but when the “Vital statistics” are right, I don’t see anyone raise any question.. Do u?
So what makes this special?? The operating word is mix… Arguably the optimum mix.. There is a right mix of women from varied culture, nation and tradition and each one has got a beauty of its own. There are Lebanese, Jordanians, Syrians, Iraqis, Iranians, Brits, Americans, French, German, selective lot of a very dominant Filipino crowd, Japanese and Chinese, Koreans and of course the dusky Indian beauties
I can’t think of any other place in the world where there exists such a huge population with so varied a mix of cultures. I haven’t travelled around, haven’t seen the world… If I was a guy who lives on punts that’s one punt I would place my bottom dollar on…
If u still can’t imagine what it is like, u got to see it… I see around my office and I don’t see one reason I can concentrate on the work…..
Saturday, February 17, 2007
A nostalgic walk down the lane!!
This blog was meant to be primarily a sports blog (for most Indians that means just cricket). So what is this post doing here? Well for a few people, me included, this lane holds a significant meaning for when i think of cricket i cannot forget the number of hours spent either, playing or discussing and far more importantly quizzing
Pattammal street may sound like a small, narrow lane in a remote town. Well it is a narrow lane in one of the greatest cities in the world, Chennai. Contrary to its size or appearance what it beheld is far more significant. For want of a better name the gang was called “Pattammal Punchers” a name that sounds rudimentary. You need to know the people to believe the sheer talent and the higher than average levels of intelligence
Being one of the duller blokes in the group helped me look at it from a different perspective. Being last to know the group and being a total outsider to their history till the time I joined helped the cause better. When play was on anybody who gets the slightest hint of vocal strains would brand the whole lot as uneducated brats. Brats we were but far from uneducated
More than two thirds of anything I know about cricket was learnt here. Some I learnt from the ones around, some I learnt with them, watching, playing, discussing and observing. The few years that we did stuff together was fun. Weekends meant at least 5 – 6 hours of cricket and an equal number of hours discussing the week past and ahead. Football did enter the picture later on but cricket was primarily what held the group’s thoughts, in unison (but for bitching about the sorry single life and not having enough money to buy the BCCI and a lot more)
These days few significant mates and I are a few thousand miles away, “virtual” is the way of life. We still do the long hours of talking, but it just can’t match the flesh and blood discussions into the night. Of late I sometimes get pangs of nostalgia, sitting on my rocking chair with a drink in hand and thoughts miles away, whether being away is really worth the trouble?? After I finish a few rounds and when sanity prevails, I think it is worth every iota (aorta) of trouble after all.
I’ve a gift not many people have. I know what I wanna do when I retire! Anybody who does would understand what a great feeling it is… Anybody who doesn’t would mock at me!! Whichever herd you fall in, believe me it is bliss. I may not be old enough to be sitting on the 5 foot parapet wall. I may not be immune enough to gulp short eats at the corner store. I may not be carefree to hang out at the beach till the wee hours of the morning, the day after. I may not be fir enough to beat the batsmen or drive over the bowler. After all the ludicrous life style changes, I would still be happy to hang out with those blokes, even if it is in the lobby of the Marriott
Pattammal street may sound like a small, narrow lane in a remote town. Well it is a narrow lane in one of the greatest cities in the world, Chennai. Contrary to its size or appearance what it beheld is far more significant. For want of a better name the gang was called “Pattammal Punchers” a name that sounds rudimentary. You need to know the people to believe the sheer talent and the higher than average levels of intelligence
Being one of the duller blokes in the group helped me look at it from a different perspective. Being last to know the group and being a total outsider to their history till the time I joined helped the cause better. When play was on anybody who gets the slightest hint of vocal strains would brand the whole lot as uneducated brats. Brats we were but far from uneducated
More than two thirds of anything I know about cricket was learnt here. Some I learnt from the ones around, some I learnt with them, watching, playing, discussing and observing. The few years that we did stuff together was fun. Weekends meant at least 5 – 6 hours of cricket and an equal number of hours discussing the week past and ahead. Football did enter the picture later on but cricket was primarily what held the group’s thoughts, in unison (but for bitching about the sorry single life and not having enough money to buy the BCCI and a lot more)
These days few significant mates and I are a few thousand miles away, “virtual” is the way of life. We still do the long hours of talking, but it just can’t match the flesh and blood discussions into the night. Of late I sometimes get pangs of nostalgia, sitting on my rocking chair with a drink in hand and thoughts miles away, whether being away is really worth the trouble?? After I finish a few rounds and when sanity prevails, I think it is worth every iota (aorta) of trouble after all.
I’ve a gift not many people have. I know what I wanna do when I retire! Anybody who does would understand what a great feeling it is… Anybody who doesn’t would mock at me!! Whichever herd you fall in, believe me it is bliss. I may not be old enough to be sitting on the 5 foot parapet wall. I may not be immune enough to gulp short eats at the corner store. I may not be carefree to hang out at the beach till the wee hours of the morning, the day after. I may not be fir enough to beat the batsmen or drive over the bowler. After all the ludicrous life style changes, I would still be happy to hang out with those blokes, even if it is in the lobby of the Marriott
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Is domination a boring affair after all??
Just a few days back i was talking to a few people about the Abu Dhabi F1 fest and i was repenting the fact that Schumi is not around to tour else i would love to go see (not that i won't go see Alonso and the rest) One thing led to another and we got started on how good he was and wat a great guy he has been. Just then someone popped in and said, atleast now F1 becomes watchable now that the dominant force is gone (Admitted that he wasn't as best in 2005 for varied reasons and 2006 was a struggle till death)
All said and done he was one of the greatest drivers to have set foot on the planet. This is not just with F1. I see this happenning with a lot of sports at varied times. People hate when the Aussies dominate a game, when Pete was at his best and no one was even good enough to put up a fight, and the same happ with Feddie now and numerous other instances to quote in the past and present. I'm a fiery sports lover too! and i want to see competitive sports played that brings out the best game in each and makes watching it such a great pleasure. but that shouldn't mean u shun away the greats, u starting hating the greats just coz they are dominant. It's not their mistake that they are good or the rest aren't good enough
I'm not saying that domination is good for the game. Coz of course it is not. There was a period in time when people said Australian cricket was very predictable. The Ashes last year changed it to a great degree, which was probably why England got so much credit. I don't say underdogs need to win too.. That could be undeserving at times. But seen in the spitit of the game the best team/ player that day wins. if someone is best day after day it gets a little monotonous but we can't blame them can we?
If ur still confused abt the objective of this post, it is to say am not a great fan of dominance either. But some of my favourites were dominant at various points in time and i have had people shun them due to this. So am only trying to say that there isn't a point blaming the sportsman/ team for it. Blame the others who cannot pull their socks up. In short bon't blame people like schumi for making the sport boring. Blame the 20 other drivers and 10 other cars for not being able to achieve what he did!!
Bottomline: Don't criticize anyone I like :P :P
All said and done he was one of the greatest drivers to have set foot on the planet. This is not just with F1. I see this happenning with a lot of sports at varied times. People hate when the Aussies dominate a game, when Pete was at his best and no one was even good enough to put up a fight, and the same happ with Feddie now and numerous other instances to quote in the past and present. I'm a fiery sports lover too! and i want to see competitive sports played that brings out the best game in each and makes watching it such a great pleasure. but that shouldn't mean u shun away the greats, u starting hating the greats just coz they are dominant. It's not their mistake that they are good or the rest aren't good enough
I'm not saying that domination is good for the game. Coz of course it is not. There was a period in time when people said Australian cricket was very predictable. The Ashes last year changed it to a great degree, which was probably why England got so much credit. I don't say underdogs need to win too.. That could be undeserving at times. But seen in the spitit of the game the best team/ player that day wins. if someone is best day after day it gets a little monotonous but we can't blame them can we?
If ur still confused abt the objective of this post, it is to say am not a great fan of dominance either. But some of my favourites were dominant at various points in time and i have had people shun them due to this. So am only trying to say that there isn't a point blaming the sportsman/ team for it. Blame the others who cannot pull their socks up. In short bon't blame people like schumi for making the sport boring. Blame the 20 other drivers and 10 other cars for not being able to achieve what he did!!
Bottomline: Don't criticize anyone I like :P :P
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Learning lessons the easy way
To let go apparently has been difficult all along. History tells us that change was one of the things humans resisted with all their might. The universe did evolve and "thinkers" pronounced that the one who can embrace change is often more prepared.
This has been proven true more often than not.. (Am not an advocate of who moved my cheese.. Infact i can't care less as to who moved it, as long as it is moved to where i want it moved) This can be seen in all walks of life, and being one of the million population than watchesthinks/reads or dreams about cricket for more hours a day than i can count with fingers, i was long wondering if such a change would come about with the team selection also
As they say u need lessons to learn. Am obsessed with Dada as an example coz i think that story has it all!! He was dropped a little later than he actually could have, he was dropped for the right reasons in the wrong way (Much was said in the press, the press being a major culprit), was made to play domestic cricket, was humbled, was brought back, was made to sit on the bench, was given a chance on a not to friendly wicket and he proved his mettle and has been good ever since his return. Today was proof enough that atleast he is still a Dada in the shorter version of the game. Towering sixes and step out over the field shots, thunderous through the off side are just the way bats, and we saw that glorious display
It took a successful drop and reclamation to understand that giving players a compulsory time off to play domestic cricket is probably the easiest and the most lasting form finding excercise. The new found mode has now been adopted with Irfan and Viru and my gut shouts that Sehwag is gonna be a force in the world cup. But my question is why not be proactive?? Why do we let time to force such a change upon us?
Not that this hasn't been done before. Just that it has either been overdone with regard to some players and has been underdone with respect to a few. All said and done its better late than never and it is good to see that senior players are being dropped. In a cricket crazy nation like India, these decisions are a landmine and one can blow in your face anytime. But, it pays to have balls and my logic is if you've got it, Flaunt it.
This has been proven true more often than not.. (Am not an advocate of who moved my cheese.. Infact i can't care less as to who moved it, as long as it is moved to where i want it moved) This can be seen in all walks of life, and being one of the million population than watchesthinks/reads or dreams about cricket for more hours a day than i can count with fingers, i was long wondering if such a change would come about with the team selection also
As they say u need lessons to learn. Am obsessed with Dada as an example coz i think that story has it all!! He was dropped a little later than he actually could have, he was dropped for the right reasons in the wrong way (Much was said in the press, the press being a major culprit), was made to play domestic cricket, was humbled, was brought back, was made to sit on the bench, was given a chance on a not to friendly wicket and he proved his mettle and has been good ever since his return. Today was proof enough that atleast he is still a Dada in the shorter version of the game. Towering sixes and step out over the field shots, thunderous through the off side are just the way bats, and we saw that glorious display
It took a successful drop and reclamation to understand that giving players a compulsory time off to play domestic cricket is probably the easiest and the most lasting form finding excercise. The new found mode has now been adopted with Irfan and Viru and my gut shouts that Sehwag is gonna be a force in the world cup. But my question is why not be proactive?? Why do we let time to force such a change upon us?
Not that this hasn't been done before. Just that it has either been overdone with regard to some players and has been underdone with respect to a few. All said and done its better late than never and it is good to see that senior players are being dropped. In a cricket crazy nation like India, these decisions are a landmine and one can blow in your face anytime. But, it pays to have balls and my logic is if you've got it, Flaunt it.
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