blast from the past

When Chappell-gate happened, I had commented that Indian Cricket is in safe hands because nobody wants to kill the goose that lays golden eggs. What I didnt anticipate was that people would conduct genetic experiments on the poor goose, and force it to lay more eggs more frequently until it became a mess.

The ODI & T20 overdose in the BCCI itinerary is raking in the monies, but it is alienating the true cricket lovers. And no, Test series against Bangladesh dont count. Watching the highlights of today's play wouldnt've pleased a cricket lover. All the Indian batsmen struggled against the short ball. Sehwag & Gambhir perished to it, and Dravid fractured his jaw. I dont expect Yuvraj to do any better tomorrow.

Why is all this relevant? Because the greatest sporting moments transpire when two champions compete. And that is what an enthusiast wants to watch, whether its on television or in the stadium. At the moment, Test cricket is the truest test of a batsman's abilities, and blooding our players in this format is currently the best way to distinguish the champions from the journeymen. Which will ensure that the other "masala" formats too preserve their entertainment quotient.

By not playing enough Test Cricket ( or playing against the minnows ), the administration might end up diluting the quality of the other formats too, eventually losing viewership and hence revenue. BCCI has clout due to the revenues it generates. The time is right to convert some of that financial clout to true leadership. For long-term greed, if not out of a genuine concern for the game.

private note

Finally got the numbers sorted out. Feel that the hard part is taken care of.
Implementation is going to be complex, but looking forward to it.
Anyway, we think today that it is doable, so making a note to be revisited later.

Dear Diary ##1

Trying to be my own boss has been surreal so far. Unless you are a particular kind of individual, the minuses far outweigh the plusses.

1. The buck stops with you. There is no scope for "covering your a$$" and shifting blame. Actions have consequences and they are direct.

2. Time is always shorter than the outstanding work.

3. Being organized and meticulous seems to be paramount.

4. The opportunity seems unbounded one moment and non-existent the next.

5. Originality/Creativity is slightly overrated. Execution is more important.

6. Competition is a moving target.


The positives I've seen so far -

1. Starting at ground zero is liberating. Having no safety-net works wonders on your focus.

2. When you start getting answers in dreams, you are officially obsessed with a problem. Feels kinda good.

3. "The only rules that really matter are these: what a man can do and what a man can't do" - Cap'n Jack Sparrow. Reinforced on a daily basis.