IPL – Not so well pitched this time?

Well, it is always a pleasure to follow the latest developments taking place in the IPL. The biggest change this season is that the current champions Mumbai Indians are standing on the lowest step of the ladder. Although it is too early to predict anything, but the end results might prove to be very surprising!

In the opinion of a large number of fans, the pitches in the UAE are not suitable for an event like the IPL. The biggest charm of this shortest form of the game is the high scoring matches and the thrill which keeps the interest remain alive till the last ball. This is sadly seen missing. Most of the fans think that until the IPL returns to India, things will not improve. Especially, given the grassy pitches of the UAE – the likelihood of having high scoring games is very low. Thus, it is evident that the interest of following of the game is diminishing fast.

Few other developments like the retirement of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman has also become the cause of lost charm of the IPL. Another major contributing factor is the recent defeat of team India in the Asia Cup and World t20. Also, the after effect of spot fixing controversy is also taking its toll. To make the matters worse, the upgradation of N Srinivasan to the ICC, followed by the orders of honourable Supreme Court asking him to step down, have given rise to doubts about the credibility of the functioning of BCCI. Collectively, all these elements have hit the spirit and commitment of a common follower of the game.

Also, it’s good to see the great players like Chris Gayle, Aaron Finch, Morne Morkel, Sunil Narine and many others performing in the IPL, but sometimes fans wonder about its benefits. The million dollar question popping up in the minds of millions of the supporters is whether the Indian national team is being actually benefited or the IPL is just an expensive extravaganza meant for sheer entertainment? Barring a few like Kohli, no other Indian player has been able to outperform so far. The catches are being dropped and the level of fielding has fallen. Our established cricketers like Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma have not been consistent. In the arena of bowling too, no Indian bowler has shined so far.

The few positives are that young ones have got a platform to showcase their talent. There is a lot to learn from the techniques being adopted by the foreigner players. Also, sharing the dressing room with the great players of many countries proves beneficial for the young ones. It helps in building their self esteem and confidence. With the guidance of veterans like Zaheer Khan, the upcoming bowlers have got a chance to develop. Last but not the least, through this platform, the management can undertake a campaign against the corrupt practices and spread awareness, especially among the young players.

Off late, cricket has transformed into a large scale commercial venture, but more importantly this is a life line for millions of die-hard fans in this country. Thus, it becomes the noble duty of the management to ensure that its original excitement and thrill is not compromised at any cost.