Can IPL succeed?

This is a question not only in the minds of the common man but also in the minds of the millionaires who have taken the plunge. As long as there is a struggle for supremacy between two countries, there are spectators to cheer them on.

Sides are taken and there are signs of ecstasy and disappointment on the faces of spectators once the final is over. The stakes are invariably for the teams and individuals – the ICC rates these two entities based on their performances in games between two nations. There are no laurels for teams which are hotchpotch affairs of one-time enemies and perennial adversaries. In the final analysis, the game is sure to take a severe beating.

The dazzling spectacles will have laser shows, skimpy clad girls, plenty of fireworks and promoting of individual brands of whatever. The cine stars who have invested their finances will watch helplessly as their importance takes a beating. It is the BCCI and others who will relish every bit of this extravaganza.

It can be safely said that this is a platform for retiree cricketers to make the final plunge into extracting the last bit of juice from the game of cricket. Tall talk of encouraging youngsters to play alongside established professionals is an eye wash. Finally, the big names will remain names and will be seen in action only in a few guest appearances. It will eventually turn out to be a clash between the Sharmas of Jullunder, the Ghoshs of Kolkata and the Murthys of Bangalore. Obviously, the on-ground spectators will not approve of that!

Prabir Ghosh