Triveni Journal

1927 | 11,233,916 words

Triveni is a journal dedicated to ancient Indian culture, history, philosophy, art, spirituality, music and all sorts of literature. Triveni was founded at Madras in 1927 and since that time various authors have donated their creativity in the form of articles, covering many aspects of public life....

I.P.L. – Twenty-20

I. V. Chalapati Rao

Watched by cricket lovers in 22 countries Twenty-20 of Indian Premier League (I.P.L.) provided a spectacular package of entertainment for 45 days (six weeks) through its engaging programme of 58 matches between the teams of the different franchises. Although some of the critics and doomdayers predicted that the shortened version of the game would be a flop, their calculations were upset and the whole programme was a mighty success ending in the exciting and suspenseful last ball result in favour of Rajasthan Royals, the weakest team which proved to be the best. Nobody could script the finale better than the dramatic photo finish.

Twenty-20 proved to be an unqualified success for the following reasons:

Inspite of its heavy dose of glamour and glitz it provided healthy entertainment to countless viewers in prime time.

It provided more opportunities to our domestic cricketers who were hitherto consigned to the second class status.

It gave exposure to our boys on and off the field to illustrious champions of international reputation. They gained access to the world’s best cricketing ideas and practices.

Even if its money-centered, commercial approach drew flak, it proved to be a blessing to the domestic cricketers who were low in finances. In fact, it was a windfall to most of them.

It provided a platform to young Indians to gain international experience in their own yard. They could interact with stalwarts like Shane Warne, McGrath, Graeme Smith, Pollock, Jayasurya, Muralidharan etal in the dressing room. Even world-class coaching  and fitness therapy were available to them.

A democratic approach was in evidence. Previously our young cricketers had no access even to our seniors who were like demi-gods.

It has led to the discovery of new talent. Above all IPL has unveiled international brotherhood in a multi-racial atmosphere. It was quite a delightful sight to see Pollock embracing Jayasurya, Graeme Smith hugging Yusuf Pathan, Shoaib Akthar being carried on the shoulders of his teammates and N’tini and Balaji locking their hands in admiration.

IPL was so successful that the contracted players in England are protesting for not being permitted to participate. It does not require a prophet to fore-see that there will be premature retirements!

The least expensive franchise of Rajasthan Royals emerged as the best one under the fantastic leadership of tactically brilliant Shane Warne who knit the team together as a cohesive unit. Teams which were a collection of great names were defeated. It proved that team spirit is more important than individual brilliance and that bonding among the players will produce excellent results. This sporting culture is essential to any game.

Packed stadiums and high octave encounters provided thrill to the viewers. We need not be puritanical about the cheer leaders, whatever our culture cops may think. We need not fear that the condensed form of cricket will interfere with the future of the Test matches and One-dayers. It is not hit or miss game. It requires strategies. Change is the law of nature and it comes as a conqueror if we do not accept it as a guest.

Finally, we must thank Indian Cricket League (I.C.L.) for the emergence of I.P.L. A new generation has come to the fore as if from nowhere.

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