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Cricket was always more than just sport. It is an institution. An artistry of skill, passion, and diversity, where every nation brought its unique flavour to the ground. And character batted at both ends of the 22 yards.


People tend to forget that a certain Sunil Manohar Gavaskar perfected the forward defensive stroke as his weapon.

A defensive shot as a weapon?


Yes, because back in those days defence was the best offense. Because back in those days bowlers hurled grenades. Today the agricultural heave is eminently more effective and entertaining. Because field placements do now allow too many fielders outside the circle. So if you heave and heave hard chances are that if you connect the ball will carry!

That is the change that money has brought in.


The spitting( read spinning) Cobras from India, the whizzing pacers from West Indies – the game offered a wide enough spread of the fantastic till yesterday. And no other sport in the World fostered character like Cricket.


But that’s Yesterday, too.

Today things have made a U turn. Let’s dig.
For starters, a big burning question: who controls the sport today?

In the enchanting realm of cricket, nations converge on the hallowed turf, where the International Cricket Council (ICC) stands as the arbiter, entrusted to ensure fairness and equity. However, amidst the symphony of bat meeting ball and the cheers of fans, whispers of disparity have begun to circulate like a gentle breeze, casting a shadow over the way the ICC differentiates between test-playing nations. And if we do not harness it, that gentle breeze will become a typhoon.


Some voices lament that the powerhouses of cricket, such as India, Australia, and England, hold sway over the decision-making process, their clout determined by the weight of their financial resources.

Might is right.


And money is might! Hence at times even the perceived wrong is right! And this by no means aims in any way to malign the cricket boards that truth be told, have the power to draw crowds and fill stadia around the world.

However, we must continue our prognosis on the game.


It is believed this influences the very fabric of cricket governance, while smaller nations, with limited financial means, find themselves at a disadvantage, their pleas often falling on deaf ears.

So let us delve deeper into this complex canvas of cricket diplomacy, where the interplay of perception and reality unfolds.


Cricket has evolved, both in its rules and fortunes. From its leisurely origins, it standardised rules, introduced limited-overs formats, and embraced technological advancements. The game’s popularity soared, new powerhouses emerged, and efforts towards inclusivity and gender equality were made.

Today, cricket continues to captivate global audiences while struggling to remain true to its rich traditions.

That’s the fight. To stay rooted.


There has been a the influx of money. All that’s good and profitable. But, perhaps this has also brought about a question that can no longer be ignored and maybe, shouldn’t.

Is there too much of it? Is there suddenly too much change?

The various changes in cricket have led to questions about the sanctity of the game.

While financial investments have undoubtedly brought both positive and negative aspects, it is crucial to evaluate the broader impact on the integrity and essence of the institution itself. The commercialization of cricket has opened doors to lucrative opportunities, attracting more players, sponsors, and global audiences.

However, it has also brought challenges such as commercial interests potentially overshadowing the
spirit of fair play and sportsmanship. There is a concern that excessive focus on financial gains may compromise the traditional values that have defined the game.


Moreover, the pursuit of financial gain has led to an influx of short-format cricket tournaments and leagues. A game that lasts five days?

That’s history. Or soon will be.


Cricket is more akin to instant coffee or 2 minute noodles today. While these leagues provide entertainment and generate revenue, they often take precedence over international matches and bilateral series.

Resultantly, the importance of international cricket is diminishing, leading to a decline in the quality of cricket played at the highest level.


Another consequence of the obsession with money in cricket is the loss of integrity and fair play.

It’s a pipe dream to expect a batsman to walk when he nicks a ball. Too much is at stake. Much more precious than the integrity of character.

Sunil Gavaskar did it regularly. Adam Gilchrist set higher precedents of it.

Moreover, Sunil Gavaskar has many a time, while commentating said that the easiest way for an umpire to know if the batsman nicked the ball to the slips or the wicket keeper is if he looks back.

It’s a human emotion. Just to see if the ball has been caught.


Because you always know if you have nicked the ball. Batsman today hardly look back. They are actors. And they never walk when they nick the ball. Have they become lesser humans? Has character and the game both degenerated in direct proportions?


The lucrative nature of the sport has given rise to corruption, match-fixing, and illegal betting activities. These practices not only tarnish the image of cricket but also erode the trust and belief of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game.


Furthermore, the focus on commercial success has led to a neglect of grassroots development and talent identification in many cricketing nations. Instead of investing in youth programs and infrastructure, the emphasis is on securing broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and branding opportunities.

This neglect, and make no mistake, it is one- hampers the future growth and sustainability of the sport.

Brands like Pepsi, Byju’s Reliance and Vodafone have become more important than the original brand.

Cricket.

The West Indies seemed to have suffered the most. Once a Goliath of the game, they have been reduced to a dwarf due to various reasons but the advent of franchise Cricket hurt them the most. The rise of T20 leagues around the world has presented opportunities for West Indies players to participate in lucrative contracts. However, clashes between international commitments and league fixtures have sometimes resulted in players having to choose between representing their country and participating in
these leagues.

On the other hand, Franchise Cricket guarantees a fashionable livelihood. It’s a quick fix solution. But it is a quick fix. That must not be forgotten.

The ICC has faced criticism for not finding a suitable solution to allow players to balance both commitments and maximize their earning potential.


Some critics argue that West Indies cricketers and the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) may have limited influence and voice within the revered ICC’s decision-making process.

This perception has led to concerns about their ability to effectively advocate for the interests and rights of West Indies players.


So the big question here is that the ICC have to make a clear headway in order to ensure that while Franchise cricket has its day, the national cricketing duties aren’t interfered in a manner that they tend to get ignored.

Else, cricket will completely have a changed essence; one where playing for national interest takes a backseat altogether. Nothing could be more heinous to the spirit of the game.


At the same time, it is important to ensure that the International Cricket Council (ICC) faces ongoing discussions and debates about the balance between international and franchise cricket.

Critics argue that the focus on lucrative T20 leagues may overshadow international cricket’s significance.


As the game continues to evolve and the world turns its eyes towards the shimmering stage of cricket, may we embrace a future where every nation, regardless of its size or financial might, is given the chance to shine brightly.

For it is in unity, respect, and fair treatment that the true magic of cricket unfolds, as a celebration of the human spirit on a global scale.


Fortunately there is light at the end of the tunnel. That light is in the birth of Shamar Joseph after his Gabba Heroics.

Curtly Ambrose says the youngster is in the mould of Malcolm Marshall. That’s huge shoes to fill.


But the vultures of franchise cricket will dart him soon. Shamar will soon need to choose the colour of the ball he holds. Red or White?

The onus is on the West Indian board and the ICC to somehow ensure that the pacer
remains a beacon of hope for the traditional sport.

Long enough at least!

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