The new Pakistan

When Pakistan lost the Test and ODI series against Sri Lanka, just as every Indian would be, I was pleased. It always gives me (and every Indian) that wicked pleasure to see Pakistan lose. But last night, when I saw the news flash on TV - the news that Australia have lost the Ashes once again - I was ecstatic. The joy was even more. Now that makes me think - at least in cricketing terms is Australia India's new Pakistan?

The magic of 194

10 years after Saeed Anwar limped and thrashed 194 runs against India in a ODI, the record has been equaled. But quite unfortunately, there seems to be absolutely no coverage on this. That left me wondering - what if Sachin Tendulkar had achieved this? Another interesting point to note was that the 194 runs record set by Anwar was not eclipsed but only equaled - what is it with 194? Sadly for the record breaker - Chris Coventry of Zimbabwe - the match ended in the favor of the opposition. But still kudos to the unknown hero.
As expected Rahul Dravid has driven his way back into the Indian team - a selection that has come in for some harsh criticism. But let's face it. The Champions Trophy is just a month away and India cannot afford another embarrassing exit from another tournament. So this is probably the only worthwhile solution for the issue. Give him a chance - after all, he has a better record in South Africa than the special one.

What's the fuss?

I am completely unable to understand why some of the Indian players talk of security concerns as the reason for not signing the 'where about clause' of the World Anti Doping Agency. Agreed that they are popular in India. Agreed that they are icons. But that does not warrant their argument! Does it mean that WADA will disclose to every Tom Dick and Harry? Come on cricketers - don't be so childish!! What indeed is the fuss?
There is a saying - if your name is tarnished once, there is no way it can be restored. Ask Manoj Prabhakar and he will say. Cricket South Africa did just that to Dale Steyn. Why did they jump the gun in announcing that the player failed a drug test only to retract it a day later? Poor Dale, even if he has been proved innocent now, there will always be a suspecting eye at him now!
Speaking of keeping a suspecting eye, the hasty decision of the IPL authorities to induct ICL escapees into IPL 3.0 (yeah there is a techno name for the next IPL) makes me suspect something fishy. After all, the BCCI had announced that there will be a 1 year period in which they willl still not be entertained! Now the fringe players in the current IPL teams will face the heat of this move!
Also evincing interest was the move by certain Kiwi players. They were daring enough to delay signing their official contracts because they wanted to put IPL before their country. Looks like the IPL's cash is quite some money for the Kiwis.
And by the way. Here is a funny parting shot. Read it and laugh out loud.