Hello again
Sorry for the silence, but I’ve been rather busy at work. My studies also have demanded more attention; thus, I have little time for blogging.
I had to however post today on an event that could have huge implications on Sri Lankan cricket. News of Sanath Jayasuriya’s axing from the Sri Lankan squad for the test series against India finally brought home the realization that the man’s career is in its winter years.
Throughout the recent Indian one day series, he has looked a mere shadow of his former self. Injuries to the sholder haven’t helped matters. In a way, his dropping could be a blessing in disguise. What he needs right now is to get back into the right mental frame of mind, and to be physically fit, before the season’s real test begins: a trip to Australia. This, of course, is under the assumption that he will be selected for that series in the first place.
Of equal, if not more, concern is the other big surprise that has come about from the current series. Chaminda Vaas replacing Mahela Jayawardene as vice-captian looks, atleast on paper, to be one that is merely a reactionary move following the terrible performance of the team in the current Indian series. But Cricinfo’s Charlie Austin gives a frankly disconcerting report on some of the events that might have led to the Jayawardene’s domotion and Vaas’ subsequent promotion.
I’ve been following Austin’s reports for over a year now and I am well aware that his access to the Sri Lankan team is relatively high. His relationship with the players - especially with Kumar Sangakkara, Jayawardene and Muttiah Muralitharan - is something that even most local reporters don’t enjoy. Therefore, his analysis of events, sometimes, carries with it a hint of team dynamics and the social structures in place. This is one of the few times I can recall being perturbed by his report.
Its no secret that since 1996, Sri Lanka cricket has been a tool for politicians and power hungry businessmen. In light of such events, it was remarkable that the team itself suffered very little; of the three South Asian cricket super-powers, Sri Lanka has always prided itself as a united team with little or no squables. As a loyal fan, I can only hope and pray that will still be the case in the future.
oh come ON!!!!!write about something interesting,please????something that has universal appeal….
Comment by sach — November 12, 2005 @ 1:44 pm
Its cricket, Sach. Its not meant to have universal appeal. I like to believe that its a game for the intellectuals amongst us. *hint hint*
Comment by poetlost — November 12, 2005 @ 1:52 pm
6-1!! *Points and laughs*
There’s a SA vs India match in my city and I can bet my money that India will get thrashed
Comment by The only Indian you know — November 13, 2005 @ 9:36 am
Yes I see the intellect in eleven guys running behind one ball.And if that’s your arguement, then Sri Lanka must have a record number of intellectuals.(I just had to say this after your insulting remark)
Comment by sach — November 14, 2005 @ 4:42 am