Monday, April 30, 2007
Enough Of This 'Bullshit' !!!!!!!!!!!!
I wonder have we Indians become bankrupt when it comes to talking sense and reacting in a sensible,measured manner to a particular event.I fail to fathom what was so objectionable and obscene in what Richard Gere did to Shilpa Shetty.It was a very naive act probably,but was certainly far away from anything close to obscenity.Also,the focus on the 'kiss' by some sections of the media for 'sensationalist' reasons has taken away all attention from why those two were there in the first place which was to raise awareness about killer AIDS which has spread its roots throughout much of India.The reason for those two being there was noble and instead of applauding them for their effort,they are being humiliated,victimised and hounded.How senseless can these so-called 'morality obsessed brigade' lawyers get when it comes to filing PILs.The judge who admitted this PIL has seriously mocked the standing of the Indian judiciary here and abroad.Our courts can spend their time listening to and delivering verdicts in cases that are of much more social,political,economic and national relevance.This PIL is certainly is a 'criminally criminal' waste of time.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Jammu And Kashmir:India's forever!!
In May 2006, I had been to a part of India (along with my parents,my Aunt,and cousin sister) which has been described as the “Switzerland of the East”. I have not been to Switzerland, but one thing ,I can, for sure say is that, Kashmir is magnificently beautiful. It was a weeklong stay there. We were a group of 25 tourists who had packed our bags in the hope of visiting a place, which many have described as “Jannat”.
So, our flight to Kashmir took off at about 8.50 am and we landed at our designated spot at about 11.30 am. My first impression of Kashmir was its distinct Islamic identity. The security was very tight, as it has to be (as long as there is Pakistan nearby!!). We boarded our bus and reached Dalgate where we were supposed to stay in a Houseboat. Man, the houseboat was not just that, it was more like a Shahi Mahal. It was equipped with bathrooms, spacious drawing roon, two huge bedrooms with nice softy-softy beds. What more can you ask for! There was a T.V set as well. The Shikara ride was a soothing experience. One almost felt as if one was in another civilization! We went to Charchinar, took photos in Kashmiri costumes. Even I had my photos taken in Kashmiri clothes. Not that I was very excited about it, but still. The next day, we went to Sonamarg, where the climate was extremely cold and chilly! And all this, in mid-summer! We played and climbed up the snow-mountains, which were very steep! We went up those snow-mountains by horse which was a 'tough' experience. Certainly, not for the weak-hearted! There was such a huge contingent of army men there. There had to be, the area was strategically placed with snow-clad mountains on all four sides. One can only take off their hats and bow down to salute the army men and women for their stellar perfomance,for all their efforts in tackling Pak-sponsored Islamic terrorism in J & K. There were army men at almost each and every corner of the Sonamarg city, some standing alone and some in groups. It is not an easy job, but they were doing it commendably well. All the tourists saluted the armymen. They were very happy to see their brethren from other parts of India. In the next few days, we visited the Mughal Gardens, Nishat Bagh and Cheshmashahi. These gardens are just a visual treat, so well maintained, putting us Mumbaikars to shame, who just don’t know how to maintain public property! Except me though (lol)! There were more than 50 types of flowers in those gardens. The weather was chilly on the day we visited these gardens. We drank water in Cheshmashahi. It is said that the water which flows in Cheshmashahi is more purer than mineral water and was even used by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehroo. Shankaracharya temple was another site we had a look at. I had also the pleasure of enjoying the experience of river rafting. It was rivetting. The water was soooooooooooooooooooooooo chilleddddddddddddd! Oof! So cold, my teeth were tattering to such an extent that they could have even broken! I am not pakaofiing here, am telling the truth. In Pahalgam, we visited the Aru valley. It was a mountainous area, good for trekking, saw many “lily white –skinned” people who were trekking. In that mountainous area, there were secondary schools, amazing. We went to Chandanwari district, again to see snow-clad mountains. I climbed about 70% of the mountain and to see down from that height was rather dizzying. In Gulmarg, we went on the Gondola cable-car ride. Again trekked on the snow-mountains there, played with snowballs. It was fun!
Sadly, not many Kashmiri Pundits were seen! Theirs' is such a tragic tale. They have been 'evicted' from their homeland. Make no mistake; Kashmir is as much the homeland of Pundits as it is of the others. A virtual holocaust has taken place in the case of Kashmiri Pundits. About two lakh Pundits have been forced to flee their homes because of the dastardly acts of Islamic terrorists. What does the Indian government do to help them? Well, leaves them in the lurch. When will the Pundits be rehabilitated and given back their homes in Kashmir? I wonder, are their interests, their plight, not the concern of the Government or of the civil society. We have, as a nation, forgotten the Kashmiri Pundits, which is sad. They were a prosperous community in Kashmir; today many are living in shanties in Jammu, Delhi in deplorable conditions. Like refugees in their own motherland. What a poor reflection on the Indian civil society, Indian governmental agencies, the human rights groups (who go crazy tom-toming the rights of Muslims, Christians, saying they need to be protected since they are a minority). These so-called human rights activists never raise their mouths when the topic is about the plight of Kashmiri Pundits or even when the few remaining Pundits in Kashmir are targeted, butchered by the terrorists as was evident in Doda, Rajouri recently . People talk of demilitarizing Kashmir. That’s just crap, to be simply honest with you! If the army goes, terrorists will rule Kashmir, thereby letting Pakistan take over Kashmir directly or otherwise. Talk of the so-called moderate separatists, why don’t they participate in elections to test their popularity? Anyways, we shouldn’t even call them separatists and sort of dignify them. They are anti-India elements, who look up to Pakistan as their mentors. That is why they are not even participating in the roundtable conference. These so-called moderate separatists run their organization on the whims and fancies of terrorists. Why is the Indian Government giving so much importance to an irrelevant Hurriyat? Just boycott them, use the policy of “speak softly and carry a big stick” with them. The government must use no-holds barred, absolutely stern, aggressive policy while dealing with groups like Hurriyat, JKLF, etc. What is this business of 'more autonomy' for J&K? I thought it was an integral part of India. By giving them 'more and more' autonomy, we are only alienating people of J & K more from us.Limited autonomy is fine because of the circumstances in which Jammu and Kashmir was made a part of India.As it is, in certain parts of Srinagar, I almost felt I was in a FOREIGN country. That speaks volumes of the fact that we have not been able to integrate much of Kashmir with India. There is a disconnect between Kashmiris and other Indians which could prove to be dangerous in future. When I went to an STD booth in Srinagar to make a call, I asked the operator, “Yaha se India ko call karne ke kitne paise lagenge?” That man was a bit perplexed when I asked this. Then I realized my folly. We should be proud of the work our army is doing in J and K. Not keep on criticizing them for certain so –called human rights violations. Even if it is true, there is a rule of law in the Indian army. Those army men found guilty of brutal, heinous human rights violations have been prosecuted. Anyways, why should the army follow the policy of giving human rights to Islamic terrorists who don’t believe in human rights when they blow up innocent civilians in the form of suicide bombings in Kashmir, Jammu and when they butcher Kashmiri Pundits to death mercilessly. Why should the Indian army be merciful or respect human rights of these terrorists? Anyways, the “human rights” concept is a tool used by terrorists to defame the Indian army. Certain sections of the Indian media have unfortunately fallen prey to the trap laid by these terrorist groups as part of their public propaganda machine. The Indian army should be free to conduct operations in Jammu and Kashmir, as it wants, like K.P.S Gill did in Punjab. His tactics may have been heavy handed at times, but it was successful in wiping off terrorism from most parts of Punjab, breaking the back of the “Sikh separatist Khalistani movement”.
J and K is a democratic state. Free and fair elections, widely recognized by the international community were held there in 2002.About 45% of the people voted, in spite of receiving severe threats from terrorists asking them to refrain from voting, or pay with their life. In other parts of India, where there is normalcy, only about 40% of the people vote because of reasons like voting apathy. In terrorism-ridden Kashmir, for about 45% of the people to have voted braving all odds, was a magnificent achievement. There is an elected legislative assembly in J&K,unlike POK, where there is no democracy. In the midst of all this talk about the situation in our Jammu Kashmir, we have not really spoken about POK, which includes the Northern areas, Baltistan, Gilgit and the so-called “Azad-Kashmir”. Even I, as a peace-loving citizen want peace and support the peace process, but at what cost? Terror attacks continue to take place in India. I would also like India to have peace with Pakistan. If Pak agrees to accept the fact that the territory of JKL, which is under Indian rule today, will always remain a part of India, then we must also compromise and accept POK to be a part of Pakistan. If that is not the case, then we must be vigilant and not concede to Pakistan at all. The best solution is conversion of LOC into an international border. If Pak does not accept it, then well………………….my mind starts thinking about how Israel captured East Jerusalem (which was under Jordanian rule till 1967). Israel was firm and ruthless and smart while dealing with its Arab neighbors because of which a tiny state like Israel destroyed three giant Arab countries in the six-day war. The Arab world will dare not attack Israel now because they know they cant mess around with a country like Israel and get away with it. Israel is not a soft country. India unfortunately is perceived to be one and is one,sadly. We have to get rid of that image and be ruthless and efficient like Israel. I also consider POK to be “Greater Kashmir” and therefore, a part of India. But if Pak agrees to accept the LOC as an international border, then we must even give up our claim on POK. Otherwise, if Pak does not accept the LOC, then well………………
One thing, is for sure, Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Siachen (those areas of Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh and Siachen which are under Indian rule today) are all inseparable parts of India. No Indian Government should even think of giving up these territories to Pak, or even to the concept of “joint rule” in the interest of peace. The above mentioned territories are parts of India and will remain so for ever. This should be made clear to Pakistan and to the rest of the world.
So, our flight to Kashmir took off at about 8.50 am and we landed at our designated spot at about 11.30 am. My first impression of Kashmir was its distinct Islamic identity. The security was very tight, as it has to be (as long as there is Pakistan nearby!!). We boarded our bus and reached Dalgate where we were supposed to stay in a Houseboat. Man, the houseboat was not just that, it was more like a Shahi Mahal. It was equipped with bathrooms, spacious drawing roon, two huge bedrooms with nice softy-softy beds. What more can you ask for! There was a T.V set as well. The Shikara ride was a soothing experience. One almost felt as if one was in another civilization! We went to Charchinar, took photos in Kashmiri costumes. Even I had my photos taken in Kashmiri clothes. Not that I was very excited about it, but still. The next day, we went to Sonamarg, where the climate was extremely cold and chilly! And all this, in mid-summer! We played and climbed up the snow-mountains, which were very steep! We went up those snow-mountains by horse which was a 'tough' experience. Certainly, not for the weak-hearted! There was such a huge contingent of army men there. There had to be, the area was strategically placed with snow-clad mountains on all four sides. One can only take off their hats and bow down to salute the army men and women for their stellar perfomance,for all their efforts in tackling Pak-sponsored Islamic terrorism in J & K. There were army men at almost each and every corner of the Sonamarg city, some standing alone and some in groups. It is not an easy job, but they were doing it commendably well. All the tourists saluted the armymen. They were very happy to see their brethren from other parts of India. In the next few days, we visited the Mughal Gardens, Nishat Bagh and Cheshmashahi. These gardens are just a visual treat, so well maintained, putting us Mumbaikars to shame, who just don’t know how to maintain public property! Except me though (lol)! There were more than 50 types of flowers in those gardens. The weather was chilly on the day we visited these gardens. We drank water in Cheshmashahi. It is said that the water which flows in Cheshmashahi is more purer than mineral water and was even used by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehroo. Shankaracharya temple was another site we had a look at. I had also the pleasure of enjoying the experience of river rafting. It was rivetting. The water was soooooooooooooooooooooooo chilleddddddddddddd! Oof! So cold, my teeth were tattering to such an extent that they could have even broken! I am not pakaofiing here, am telling the truth. In Pahalgam, we visited the Aru valley. It was a mountainous area, good for trekking, saw many “lily white –skinned” people who were trekking. In that mountainous area, there were secondary schools, amazing. We went to Chandanwari district, again to see snow-clad mountains. I climbed about 70% of the mountain and to see down from that height was rather dizzying. In Gulmarg, we went on the Gondola cable-car ride. Again trekked on the snow-mountains there, played with snowballs. It was fun!
Sadly, not many Kashmiri Pundits were seen! Theirs' is such a tragic tale. They have been 'evicted' from their homeland. Make no mistake; Kashmir is as much the homeland of Pundits as it is of the others. A virtual holocaust has taken place in the case of Kashmiri Pundits. About two lakh Pundits have been forced to flee their homes because of the dastardly acts of Islamic terrorists. What does the Indian government do to help them? Well, leaves them in the lurch. When will the Pundits be rehabilitated and given back their homes in Kashmir? I wonder, are their interests, their plight, not the concern of the Government or of the civil society. We have, as a nation, forgotten the Kashmiri Pundits, which is sad. They were a prosperous community in Kashmir; today many are living in shanties in Jammu, Delhi in deplorable conditions. Like refugees in their own motherland. What a poor reflection on the Indian civil society, Indian governmental agencies, the human rights groups (who go crazy tom-toming the rights of Muslims, Christians, saying they need to be protected since they are a minority). These so-called human rights activists never raise their mouths when the topic is about the plight of Kashmiri Pundits or even when the few remaining Pundits in Kashmir are targeted, butchered by the terrorists as was evident in Doda, Rajouri recently . People talk of demilitarizing Kashmir. That’s just crap, to be simply honest with you! If the army goes, terrorists will rule Kashmir, thereby letting Pakistan take over Kashmir directly or otherwise. Talk of the so-called moderate separatists, why don’t they participate in elections to test their popularity? Anyways, we shouldn’t even call them separatists and sort of dignify them. They are anti-India elements, who look up to Pakistan as their mentors. That is why they are not even participating in the roundtable conference. These so-called moderate separatists run their organization on the whims and fancies of terrorists. Why is the Indian Government giving so much importance to an irrelevant Hurriyat? Just boycott them, use the policy of “speak softly and carry a big stick” with them. The government must use no-holds barred, absolutely stern, aggressive policy while dealing with groups like Hurriyat, JKLF, etc. What is this business of 'more autonomy' for J&K? I thought it was an integral part of India. By giving them 'more and more' autonomy, we are only alienating people of J & K more from us.Limited autonomy is fine because of the circumstances in which Jammu and Kashmir was made a part of India.As it is, in certain parts of Srinagar, I almost felt I was in a FOREIGN country. That speaks volumes of the fact that we have not been able to integrate much of Kashmir with India. There is a disconnect between Kashmiris and other Indians which could prove to be dangerous in future. When I went to an STD booth in Srinagar to make a call, I asked the operator, “Yaha se India ko call karne ke kitne paise lagenge?” That man was a bit perplexed when I asked this. Then I realized my folly. We should be proud of the work our army is doing in J and K. Not keep on criticizing them for certain so –called human rights violations. Even if it is true, there is a rule of law in the Indian army. Those army men found guilty of brutal, heinous human rights violations have been prosecuted. Anyways, why should the army follow the policy of giving human rights to Islamic terrorists who don’t believe in human rights when they blow up innocent civilians in the form of suicide bombings in Kashmir, Jammu and when they butcher Kashmiri Pundits to death mercilessly. Why should the Indian army be merciful or respect human rights of these terrorists? Anyways, the “human rights” concept is a tool used by terrorists to defame the Indian army. Certain sections of the Indian media have unfortunately fallen prey to the trap laid by these terrorist groups as part of their public propaganda machine. The Indian army should be free to conduct operations in Jammu and Kashmir, as it wants, like K.P.S Gill did in Punjab. His tactics may have been heavy handed at times, but it was successful in wiping off terrorism from most parts of Punjab, breaking the back of the “Sikh separatist Khalistani movement”.
J and K is a democratic state. Free and fair elections, widely recognized by the international community were held there in 2002.About 45% of the people voted, in spite of receiving severe threats from terrorists asking them to refrain from voting, or pay with their life. In other parts of India, where there is normalcy, only about 40% of the people vote because of reasons like voting apathy. In terrorism-ridden Kashmir, for about 45% of the people to have voted braving all odds, was a magnificent achievement. There is an elected legislative assembly in J&K,unlike POK, where there is no democracy. In the midst of all this talk about the situation in our Jammu Kashmir, we have not really spoken about POK, which includes the Northern areas, Baltistan, Gilgit and the so-called “Azad-Kashmir”. Even I, as a peace-loving citizen want peace and support the peace process, but at what cost? Terror attacks continue to take place in India. I would also like India to have peace with Pakistan. If Pak agrees to accept the fact that the territory of JKL, which is under Indian rule today, will always remain a part of India, then we must also compromise and accept POK to be a part of Pakistan. If that is not the case, then we must be vigilant and not concede to Pakistan at all. The best solution is conversion of LOC into an international border. If Pak does not accept it, then well………………….my mind starts thinking about how Israel captured East Jerusalem (which was under Jordanian rule till 1967). Israel was firm and ruthless and smart while dealing with its Arab neighbors because of which a tiny state like Israel destroyed three giant Arab countries in the six-day war. The Arab world will dare not attack Israel now because they know they cant mess around with a country like Israel and get away with it. Israel is not a soft country. India unfortunately is perceived to be one and is one,sadly. We have to get rid of that image and be ruthless and efficient like Israel. I also consider POK to be “Greater Kashmir” and therefore, a part of India. But if Pak agrees to accept the LOC as an international border, then we must even give up our claim on POK. Otherwise, if Pak does not accept the LOC, then well………………
One thing, is for sure, Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Siachen (those areas of Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh and Siachen which are under Indian rule today) are all inseparable parts of India. No Indian Government should even think of giving up these territories to Pak, or even to the concept of “joint rule” in the interest of peace. The above mentioned territories are parts of India and will remain so for ever. This should be made clear to Pakistan and to the rest of the world.
Afzal And The European Union
I don't think the European House President has any right to raise the issue of terrorist Afzal's conviction and hanging and put pressure on Mr.Kalam to revoke his death sentence and have a re-look at the case.Afzal's conviction is an internal matter of India.Just as India doesn't interfere in internal affairs of Europe when it comes to sensitive security matters,Europe should also do the same.European Union having an 'impeccable human rights' record is fine,but do they know that they are talking about a man who was found guilty by three departments of the Indian court system .The SC has repeatedly disposed off mercy petitions filed by Afzal.Unless we believe that our judiciary is so foolish that three departments of it could do nothing but find Afzal guilty,we should go ahead with the hanging.As far as the barbarism of death penalty is concerned,no one gave Afzal the right to become a Satan and kill innocents,so no mercy should be shown to him.This shameless dilly-dallying by the govt on the issue of his hanging is only giving the rest of the world an oppurtunity to take potshots at India.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Which Famous Leader And Classic Movie Am I?
I took part in two quizzes when I visited www.similarminds.com to determine which famous leader and classic movie I am........Here are the results!!!!!........interesting........
Leader Test Result
Classic Movie Test Result
Leader Test Result
Classic Movie Test Result
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Future Of Cricket South Africa
So,SA in one more WC semifinal ,SA suffering one more defeat in a WC semifinal,one more elimination from the dying stages of a WC for SA,one more thrashing for SA at the hands of the Aussies in a crucial tournament at a crucial stage........jeez....Safrican cricket supporters must be getting pretty used to all of this.On a more serious note,the 'cricketing genocide'(I don't like using violent phrases....but mild phrases to describe yesterday's performance just won't be good enough) carried out by Australia on SA would have sent shivers down the spine of all other nations.It was a clinical,compact,solid,disciplinedand relentless performance(you could use many more adjectives to describe the Aussie performance) by the Kangaroos.Cricket fans cutting across territorial boundaries would be wondering what is it going to take to stop the Aussie juggernaut.I certainly am.
I have always said in the past that SA is only team that can truly challenge Australia.I still stick to that.But there is an expectation applied to that-of competitiveness from the South Africans.Yesterday was a clear case of SA meekly surrendering and being overwhelmed by the occasion(why should that be the case.......even 8 years after THAT heartbreaking exit.......one can't fathom).What one expected from SA at the very least was competitiveness and the ability to be flexible.None of that was evident yesterday.The desire to win and to stamp their authority on the Aussies would have been there,of course.But a little bit of flexibility(if I am allowed to be a bit harsh,I would say 'commonsense') would have helped.It is all right to have an attacking attitude.But as I have said before,the need of the hour was 'intelligent and attacking cricket',not 'reckless and attacking' cricket.The latter applied to SA's batting performance yesterday....or should I say 'non-performance.To be just to the Republic,they have ,for most part of this WC,been attacking upfront and most of the time,the strategy has paid off.But Graeme Smith dancing down the track,trying to hit Bracken out of St.Lucia in the second over itself was just not done.Fine,he has played very much like Hayden has for Australia.But remember,he was facing the Aussies ,who were bowling well.He should have given them a bit of respect and been patient.He should have paced his knock like Jayawardene did so beautifully against the Kiwis.Kallis is a class act and I never like pointing fingers at him.He has been as valuable as a diamond for SA over the past 11 years.But,the way he got out was so ungainly ,so unbecoming of a genius like him.More so,after he had hit Pigeon for a four the previous delivery.Surely,after these two wickets,there must have been a rethink of strategy.But evidently,there was not.AB is a fantastic talent and one to be preserved for the future.He also found it hard going against the Australian bowlers.But instead of 'gutzing it out',he gifted his wicket away.There was no need for him to play that shot(Easier said than done.....I admit.........but that is why they are there .......and I am here.....sadly.......hehe).Prince's waft outsideeeeeeeeeee the off stump was an absolute shocker........would have been called a wide if he hadn't edged it(must say Safricans have had not much luck in such matters).But it just showed how jittery Prince was.Boucher's wicket was probably the only one which the bowler 'earned'........it was a 'ripper' of a delivery.When you lose half your side in the first ten overs including your spinal cord(Kallis),what can you expect?.....Gibbs gave some hope along with Kemp..but he too flattered to deceive.getting out to a shot he shouldn't have played in the first place.After that,it was just a matter of scratching around and eking out as amny runs as possible.And Kemp,due credit be given to him,did that.But he ran out of partners at the other end.And SA capitulated.It was a shambolic performance(from a team which was ranked No 1 in the world till recently).
With no spinner in their line-up,defending a small target of 150 would have a humongous task.Still,I thought SA bowled reasonably well.If only their batsmen had batted sensibly and given them a target to bowl at!!!!!!!!Australia finished off the match in the end with ease.Their bowling was discplined,but not unplayable.SA made matters worse by 'hitting their feet with an axe' on their own.
Now,I am not going to be irrational like most Indian fans and demand 'ridiculous chopping' and 'changing'.That is not the answer.A post-mortem will be conducted,rightly so.This team,inspite of this woeful loss,is a good one.Some players' places in the side are definitely under scrutiny i.e Prince,even Kemp.But the rest of the side are good and need to be persisted with.Smithy should remain the captain and so should Mickey Arthur,the coach.Needless to say,Cricket South Africa needs to look forward to the future and plan for the 2011 WC in the sub-continent.The reasons for the erratic performances of the team in this tournament must be looked into for it was this very team that did so well from 2005 Feb to March 2007 in ODIs.The alleged 'mental fragility' plaguing South Africans in big tournaments is something that needs to be discussed with a sports psychologist.As much I would like to believe that there is nothing wrong with the mental side of things,performances over the past few years in 'crucial matches' suggest something else. First things first,they need to find,develop,groom, and pick spinners in the SA team.Some grounds in SA need to be made spinner friendly(like you have Sydney in Australia).You have already 'decent' spinners in the form of Johan Botha,Paul Harris,Thandi Tshabalala and a baby in the form of Abdul Razzack.Nurture Razzack properly,for he is a real prospect.Give Botha,Harris a decent run in the team.Let these spinners come to the subcontinent more often as part of an 'academy exchange' programme.There is no better place for a budding spinner to be groomed than in the subcontinent.A decent spinner would balance out the South African team beautifully.Also,send talented 'future batting' prospects like Francois du Plessis,Morne van Vuuren,Vaughn van Jaarsveld to the subcontinent as part of the 'exchange programme' to learn to bat on subcontinental pitches.All these plans need to be put in place and implemented.Also,the art of bowling on all conditions,all surfaces need to be learnt by some South African fast medium bowlers.They only seem to be good at home. Young fast bowlers like Dale Steyn,Morne Morkel,Ryan Mclaren need to be given oppurtunities.Because SA is sorely missing someone of the calibre of Donald,supremely fast and accurate.These three have the potential to do that.SO,all in all,no 'drastic','ludicrous' changing of the squad.A little bit of tinkering is what is needed.
And please,next time,if SA wins a few series at home,no need to start calling them an 'invincible' or a 'great' side .A good side,yes.......but for a South African team to be considered truly great,they need to win consistently,at home and abroad...........No use brooding over the past...........look ahead..............that is the only option left,isn't it?..................................and ohhhhh ya........the choker tag............it will remain.............rightly or wrongly.
I have always said in the past that SA is only team that can truly challenge Australia.I still stick to that.But there is an expectation applied to that-of competitiveness from the South Africans.Yesterday was a clear case of SA meekly surrendering and being overwhelmed by the occasion(why should that be the case.......even 8 years after THAT heartbreaking exit.......one can't fathom).What one expected from SA at the very least was competitiveness and the ability to be flexible.None of that was evident yesterday.The desire to win and to stamp their authority on the Aussies would have been there,of course.But a little bit of flexibility(if I am allowed to be a bit harsh,I would say 'commonsense') would have helped.It is all right to have an attacking attitude.But as I have said before,the need of the hour was 'intelligent and attacking cricket',not 'reckless and attacking' cricket.The latter applied to SA's batting performance yesterday....or should I say 'non-performance.To be just to the Republic,they have ,for most part of this WC,been attacking upfront and most of the time,the strategy has paid off.But Graeme Smith dancing down the track,trying to hit Bracken out of St.Lucia in the second over itself was just not done.Fine,he has played very much like Hayden has for Australia.But remember,he was facing the Aussies ,who were bowling well.He should have given them a bit of respect and been patient.He should have paced his knock like Jayawardene did so beautifully against the Kiwis.Kallis is a class act and I never like pointing fingers at him.He has been as valuable as a diamond for SA over the past 11 years.But,the way he got out was so ungainly ,so unbecoming of a genius like him.More so,after he had hit Pigeon for a four the previous delivery.Surely,after these two wickets,there must have been a rethink of strategy.But evidently,there was not.AB is a fantastic talent and one to be preserved for the future.He also found it hard going against the Australian bowlers.But instead of 'gutzing it out',he gifted his wicket away.There was no need for him to play that shot(Easier said than done.....I admit.........but that is why they are there .......and I am here.....sadly.......hehe).Prince's waft outsideeeeeeeeeee the off stump was an absolute shocker........would have been called a wide if he hadn't edged it(must say Safricans have had not much luck in such matters).But it just showed how jittery Prince was.Boucher's wicket was probably the only one which the bowler 'earned'........it was a 'ripper' of a delivery.When you lose half your side in the first ten overs including your spinal cord(Kallis),what can you expect?.....Gibbs gave some hope along with Kemp..but he too flattered to deceive.getting out to a shot he shouldn't have played in the first place.After that,it was just a matter of scratching around and eking out as amny runs as possible.And Kemp,due credit be given to him,did that.But he ran out of partners at the other end.And SA capitulated.It was a shambolic performance(from a team which was ranked No 1 in the world till recently).
With no spinner in their line-up,defending a small target of 150 would have a humongous task.Still,I thought SA bowled reasonably well.If only their batsmen had batted sensibly and given them a target to bowl at!!!!!!!!Australia finished off the match in the end with ease.Their bowling was discplined,but not unplayable.SA made matters worse by 'hitting their feet with an axe' on their own.
Now,I am not going to be irrational like most Indian fans and demand 'ridiculous chopping' and 'changing'.That is not the answer.A post-mortem will be conducted,rightly so.This team,inspite of this woeful loss,is a good one.Some players' places in the side are definitely under scrutiny i.e Prince,even Kemp.But the rest of the side are good and need to be persisted with.Smithy should remain the captain and so should Mickey Arthur,the coach.Needless to say,Cricket South Africa needs to look forward to the future and plan for the 2011 WC in the sub-continent.The reasons for the erratic performances of the team in this tournament must be looked into for it was this very team that did so well from 2005 Feb to March 2007 in ODIs.The alleged 'mental fragility' plaguing South Africans in big tournaments is something that needs to be discussed with a sports psychologist.As much I would like to believe that there is nothing wrong with the mental side of things,performances over the past few years in 'crucial matches' suggest something else. First things first,they need to find,develop,groom, and pick spinners in the SA team.Some grounds in SA need to be made spinner friendly(like you have Sydney in Australia).You have already 'decent' spinners in the form of Johan Botha,Paul Harris,Thandi Tshabalala and a baby in the form of Abdul Razzack.Nurture Razzack properly,for he is a real prospect.Give Botha,Harris a decent run in the team.Let these spinners come to the subcontinent more often as part of an 'academy exchange' programme.There is no better place for a budding spinner to be groomed than in the subcontinent.A decent spinner would balance out the South African team beautifully.Also,send talented 'future batting' prospects like Francois du Plessis,Morne van Vuuren,Vaughn van Jaarsveld to the subcontinent as part of the 'exchange programme' to learn to bat on subcontinental pitches.All these plans need to be put in place and implemented.Also,the art of bowling on all conditions,all surfaces need to be learnt by some South African fast medium bowlers.They only seem to be good at home. Young fast bowlers like Dale Steyn,Morne Morkel,Ryan Mclaren need to be given oppurtunities.Because SA is sorely missing someone of the calibre of Donald,supremely fast and accurate.These three have the potential to do that.SO,all in all,no 'drastic','ludicrous' changing of the squad.A little bit of tinkering is what is needed.
And please,next time,if SA wins a few series at home,no need to start calling them an 'invincible' or a 'great' side .A good side,yes.......but for a South African team to be considered truly great,they need to win consistently,at home and abroad...........No use brooding over the past...........look ahead..............that is the only option left,isn't it?..................................and ohhhhh ya........the choker tag............it will remain.............rightly or wrongly.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Third Time Lucky...............Hopefully!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So,the time has finally come for SA to 'stand up' and 'be counted'.Today,SA will be playing their WC semifinal match against Australia.As I mention that,I am sure the 'choker' tag associated with the South Africans would have erupted in the minds of cricket aficionados reading this.Ya,whether the South Africans like it or not,that tag is here to stay irrespective of the fact that the RSA defeated the Ozzies last year in a one day series 3-2 culminating in that fantafabulous,record-breaking win at the Wanderers.A good way to eliminate this tag would be to defeat Australia and book a place in the final and win the WC.
To be honest,I was quite disappointed with Mickey Arthur's comments a few weeks back when he said that the RSA would prefer not facing Australia in the semifinal.Now that smacks of defensiveness.At that time, SA were ranked the number one team in the world.Now,if you are number 1 and still say that you do not want to face a particular side in the semifinal,that exposes certain tough questions about,firstly,the rankings and secondly,the strength of the South African team.You have got to be prepared to play any team in the world in any situation if you are to be considered a truly great side.RSA has a chance tomorrow to prove something.To be honest, SA is the only side who I believe can truly challenge Australia and that is not because of my love for South African cricket(certainly not because my heart is saying that........I am not letting emotions dictate what I am saying.....which is what happened in India before the Indian team's departure proving that the majority of India is filled with 'emotional jerks').I am saying this for several reasons.History is one.The South Africans have given Australia a tough fight on most occasions.The one day series last year in the RSA was won by the South Africans 3-2,the series being clinched by the South Africans by winning the 5th match at Johannesburg,chasing down 434............now beat that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!It was a 'pressure-cooker' match and the South Africans won it in under intense pressure in front of their home crowds(now......imagine the pressure the South Africans would have been in with their home crowds so passionately cheering for them.....but they did it........and jeez..........to see the faces of crestfallen Aussie cricketers was a delight).The other reason is that this South African team,when fully fit, well picked and playing to its full potential without getting out playing soft shots can be a destructive team.All those factors will have to work for SA .That is going to be a challenge.
Smithy is going to have to contribute with the bat for he is so crucial to their fortunes.AB de Villiers will also have to do the same.If they get going like they did in St.Kitts and Nevis at Warner Park,the South Africans would prove to be unstoppable.Kallis will have to play a crucial role with bat and ball.He will have to step up the pace with the bat as he has done after the Australian match.He is a class act and so I don't want to be too critical of him.Gibbs should play the way he does normally for he is a loose cannon like the 'old Virender Sehvaag'.Justin Kemp, I think must be persevered with.Prince also should be included to give a bit of 'old fashioned solidity' to the South African middle order.Now,the bowling.Polly,Langeveldt,Nel and Hall-my bowling line up.Period.No place for Ntini.I can't belive I am saying this.But he has been pretty woeful in this WC.He doesn't deserve a place in the starting line up.Pollock must open the bowling,knowing fully well that Hayden will target him.Still,Polly is an experienced guy and Ithe team management should trust him.Nel should give him company at the other end.If Polly can't get it right,Langeveldt should be brought into the attack.And please,no Peterson.His selection in the final fifteen itself was a mistake,I feel.He is not to be selected just for the sake of being selected.The South Africans should stick to an all-pace attack,for that is their strength.And no 'nonsensical sledging' from Andre Nel.Just shut up and do the business like he did against England.No conservative cricket from the South Africans.The need of the hour is 'intelligent and attacking' cricket.And,if they win the toss,I would stick my neck out and say,RSA should bowl first and exploit the early morning swing.
So, all in all,it promises to be a fantastic match and lets hope that RSA wins for they truly deserve destiny to be on their side.They have suffered enough.If,however,I had to pick a winner,Australia would be my choice,unfortunately.But I would be the HAPPIEST if my prediction turned out to be wrong,trust me!!!!!!!!
My RSA eleven for tomorrow' match:
Graeme Smith(Captain)
A B de Villiers
Jacques Kallis
Herschelle Gibbs
Ashwell Prince
Justin Kemp
Mark Boucher(wk)
Shaun Pollock
Andrew Hall
Andre Nel
Charl Langeveldt...............Dump quota politics in the dust-bin at this juncture atleast!!!!!!!!!!!!
To be honest,I was quite disappointed with Mickey Arthur's comments a few weeks back when he said that the RSA would prefer not facing Australia in the semifinal.Now that smacks of defensiveness.At that time, SA were ranked the number one team in the world.Now,if you are number 1 and still say that you do not want to face a particular side in the semifinal,that exposes certain tough questions about,firstly,the rankings and secondly,the strength of the South African team.You have got to be prepared to play any team in the world in any situation if you are to be considered a truly great side.RSA has a chance tomorrow to prove something.To be honest, SA is the only side who I believe can truly challenge Australia and that is not because of my love for South African cricket(certainly not because my heart is saying that........I am not letting emotions dictate what I am saying.....which is what happened in India before the Indian team's departure proving that the majority of India is filled with 'emotional jerks').I am saying this for several reasons.History is one.The South Africans have given Australia a tough fight on most occasions.The one day series last year in the RSA was won by the South Africans 3-2,the series being clinched by the South Africans by winning the 5th match at Johannesburg,chasing down 434............now beat that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!It was a 'pressure-cooker' match and the South Africans won it in under intense pressure in front of their home crowds(now......imagine the pressure the South Africans would have been in with their home crowds so passionately cheering for them.....but they did it........and jeez..........to see the faces of crestfallen Aussie cricketers was a delight).The other reason is that this South African team,when fully fit, well picked and playing to its full potential without getting out playing soft shots can be a destructive team.All those factors will have to work for SA .That is going to be a challenge.
Smithy is going to have to contribute with the bat for he is so crucial to their fortunes.AB de Villiers will also have to do the same.If they get going like they did in St.Kitts and Nevis at Warner Park,the South Africans would prove to be unstoppable.Kallis will have to play a crucial role with bat and ball.He will have to step up the pace with the bat as he has done after the Australian match.He is a class act and so I don't want to be too critical of him.Gibbs should play the way he does normally for he is a loose cannon like the 'old Virender Sehvaag'.Justin Kemp, I think must be persevered with.Prince also should be included to give a bit of 'old fashioned solidity' to the South African middle order.Now,the bowling.Polly,Langeveldt,Nel and Hall-my bowling line up.Period.No place for Ntini.I can't belive I am saying this.But he has been pretty woeful in this WC.He doesn't deserve a place in the starting line up.Pollock must open the bowling,knowing fully well that Hayden will target him.Still,Polly is an experienced guy and Ithe team management should trust him.Nel should give him company at the other end.If Polly can't get it right,Langeveldt should be brought into the attack.And please,no Peterson.His selection in the final fifteen itself was a mistake,I feel.He is not to be selected just for the sake of being selected.The South Africans should stick to an all-pace attack,for that is their strength.And no 'nonsensical sledging' from Andre Nel.Just shut up and do the business like he did against England.No conservative cricket from the South Africans.The need of the hour is 'intelligent and attacking' cricket.And,if they win the toss,I would stick my neck out and say,RSA should bowl first and exploit the early morning swing.
So, all in all,it promises to be a fantastic match and lets hope that RSA wins for they truly deserve destiny to be on their side.They have suffered enough.If,however,I had to pick a winner,Australia would be my choice,unfortunately.But I would be the HAPPIEST if my prediction turned out to be wrong,trust me!!!!!!!!
My RSA eleven for tomorrow' match:
Graeme Smith(Captain)
A B de Villiers
Jacques Kallis
Herschelle Gibbs
Ashwell Prince
Justin Kemp
Mark Boucher(wk)
Shaun Pollock
Andrew Hall
Andre Nel
Charl Langeveldt...............Dump quota politics in the dust-bin at this juncture atleast!!!!!!!!!!!!
For India............for South Africa!!!!!!!!!
What I am going to talk about in this article might seem ridiculous to some people,weird to others and downright irrelevant to some.But I know ,for sure,that it is neither irrelevant nor ridiculous.You see,South Africa occupies a special place in my heart.Yeah,I am an Indian and supremely proud of being one.But South Africa has become almost a second nation for me.I am as comfortable considering myself a South African as I am considering myself an Indian(Some might find what I am saying just ludicrous!!!!!.....but the truth ain't that!!!!!!!!!)
This love for South Africa began in 1996,when I was in fourth grade.I got interest in the wonderful game of cricket during the 96 World Cup.I,like any other Indian,wanted India to win.India played really well to reach the semi-final,where they lost to a much better Sri Lanka.About a month later,India ,Pakistan and RSA took part in a triangular ODI tournament in Sharjah known as the 'Pepsi Cup'.RSA were expected to just fill the numbers in that tournament,by many 'cricket experts'!!!!!!!!!now beat that!!!!!!!!However,RSA proved to be a formidable force by winning their four group matches,decimating India and Pakistan twice.India scraped through to the final on the back of a solitary convincing win over Pakistan(helped by a superior Net run rate).RSA did themselves no harm by 'knocking the stuffing'(hmmn.............must admit.....as much as I hate Australian cricket.....I love using 'Aussie cricket phrases') out of India in the final and were crowned winners.It was at that moment that something 'inside me'(my 'inner voice'..ala Sonia Gandhi.........how touched I was...I realised someone else also had an inner voice.....lol) 'connected' me with South Africa.Watching those RSA cricketers on the field and fans in the stadium made me feel as if I am one of them.From then on,my 'association' with RSA began and it has lasted for 11 years.It will last till the last breath of my life.I have wonderful memories of RSA cricket etched in my memory .Wessels Johannes Cronje's inspirational captaincy,the 'golden team' of the 90's which came 'oh-so-close' to winning the 99 WC,RSA defeating India in India in a two-test series in FEB 2000 becoming the first foreign team to beat India in their home territory since 87,RSA subduing Pakistan in Pakistan 1-0 in a three-test series in 97 and also in the quadrangular ODI tournament that followed,the MINI WORLD CUP victory in 98,defeating NZL in NZL in a three test and five match ODI series in Mar 99,outclassing England in a mammoth five-test series and a triangular ODI tournament in late99-early 2000.The list is endless.But of course,there was a bomb waiting to explode .RSA cricket went through one of its worst phases in 2000 when the match-fixing scandal broke out.Like most cricket lovers then,I couldn't believe my ears on hearing Cronje being associated with such a heinous crime. When he did however admit his involvement in matchfixing,I was shellshocked.It was like the fall of the Berlin Wall,an admission of that magnitude.Some of my dearest friends then had said that my support for RSA would end now that Hansie wasn't going to be involved in cricket any more.But to my surprise and even theirs,my loyalty towards RSA cricket grew leaps and bounds.I become even more passionate and dedicated in my support for RSA cricket.When Hansie was given a life ban,I must admit I felt quite dismayed because I didn't believe he deserved such an atrociously harsh punishment because after all,he had lead RSA to so many test and ODI wins.That life ban included a ban on coaching,setting up coaching clinics,commentating.But I knew life and also RSA cricket had to move on.
Shaun Pollock had the unenviable task of uniting and stabilising the shaken foundations of RSA cricket and also of the RSA fans.Surprisingly,he took to captaincy like a fish to water.Test and ODI series wins were notched up under Polly's captaincy with alarming regularity.Then came the real test......AUSTRALIA.In Dec 2001,RSA toured Australia for a three test series followed by a triangular ODI series involving NZL.RSA were crushed deservedly.They played lacklustre cricket and were 'straightened out' by the 'sledging' and 'abuse' loving Aussies.RSA ,however,more than made up for that loss by playing well for most part of the triangular ODI series that followed.They reached the finals and defeated NZL 2-0.Then it was Australia's turn to experience the sights and sounds of RSA on a tour of the Republic immediately after the end of that Triangular Series.RSA were hammered inside three days in the first test at Johannesburg and fought hard in the second ,before going on to lose the test and with it the series.RSA did well to win the third test.In the seven-match ODI series that followed,RSA were trounced 1-6 by the rampaging Aussies.I really felt a huge sense of loss at that moment in time.However,things began to look much more brighter for RSA towards the end of 2002.They entered the 03 WC as one of the hot favourites,only to be shockingly eliminated in the first round in tragic circumstances.They again produced lacklustre performances,especially with the ball,in front of their adoring home fans.Their elimination could not hav e come at a worse time for me,for my S.S.C. examination was supposed to begin on Mar 5 and RSA were eliminated on Mar 3.Jeez...........I was just crestfallen.Mom had other worries in mind,whether RSA's ouster would impact my S.S.C. performance.Thankfully ,it did not.Graeme Smith ,a 21 year old 'novice' was appointed as RSA captain.A bold decision,it seemed!!!!!!!!!!
His first match saw RSA being routed by India in Dhaka.But with time,he learnt the tricks of the trade and matured as a captain.The English tour from June-Sep 2003 was a revelation in so much as that it exposed Smith's and the 'new' RSA cricket team's weaknesses but also revealed Graeme's mental toughness and his ability to 'gutz it out'.His two consecutive double hundreds were fantastic and a delight to watch.RSA performed admirably in that test serieswhich was drawn 2-2.In Oct 2003,Smith led RSA to a dramatic comeback 3-2 win over Pakistan in Pakistan in an ODI series.Wins over WI in a 4 test series and 5 match ODI series followed.Everything seemed rosy for RSA at that point in time.But there were serious flaws lurking.Those flaws were thoroughly exposed in NZL in Feb 04 when RSA were pummeled into submission by the smart Kiwis in a 6 match ODI series.The ensuing 3 test series also produced patchy performances from RSA,although the final result was a drawn series,1-1.The period from July 2004 to Jan 2005 was one of the most wretched phases in RSA cricket post readmission.The SAF's lost a 2 test series to SRL in SRL in Aug 04 followed by a 0-5 'brownwash' at the hands of the Lankans in a 5 match ODI series.RSA cricket was reduced to as low as an ebb.The mini WC in Sep 04 also resulted in humiliation as RSA were kicked out in the first round.It was time for action now.Eric Simmons,the coach was sacked.Certain hard questions were posed to RSA cricketers.They were told to either 'perform or perish'.Mark Boucher was dropped from the RSA party to tour India for a two test series in Nov 2004.RSA lost the series 0-1.The next two months produced even more dissapointment as RSA played some really inconsistent cricket losing a five test series to England on home soil 1-2.It was a humiliation.The cricketers' commitment to cricket was questioned.It seemed to many that some players in the side were taking their place for granted.In the meanwhile,new talents in the form of Dale Steyn and AB de Villiers emerged on the scene performing exceedingly well.
However, in a sudden turn of events,the 7 match ODI series against England in Feb 05 resulted in achange of fortune for the SAF's.They played some 'attacking cricket',not what they are known for.The series was won 4-1.The series saw some fantastic,belligerent hitting by Justin Kemp,inspiring batting by Smith,good all round bowling and fielding display by the SAF's.There was an element of spice as well since Kevin Pietersen(RSA born) was a member of the English side and he scored hundreds in that series,in vain though.The next 2 years were absolutely fantastic for RSA cricket.RSA defeated Zimbabwe in a 2 test and 3 match ODI series 2-0 and 3-0 expectedly.They then defeated WI in a 4 test and 5 match ODI series 2-0 and 5-0.Charl Langeveldt took a marvellous 'pressure situation' hatrick in the third match of the ODI series that clinched a series win for RSA.Everyone contributed.It was a good all round performance,cliched that may sound though.In the coming months ,RSA thrashed NZL 4-0 in a 5 match ODI series,drew level against India in India in a 5 match ODI series 2-2.Then,RSA, in December 2005,left for a two month tour of Australia which involved three tests and a tri-nation ODI tournament consisting of the Lankans.RSA lost the test series 0-2,but the scoreline doesn't reflect the true picture.The series was marred by woeful umpiring decisions most of which went against RSA,dropped catches which cost RSA badly;injuries to Kallis,Ntini,Langeveldt and also racial abuse directed at RSA cricketers by Australian fans and expat Safricans probably.All these factors contributed to a South African loss in both the test series and ODI tournament.In March 2006,however,RSA defeated Australia in a 5 match ODI series 3-2 ,culminating in a famous RSA win over the Ozzies in which they chased down 434 scored by Australia,with one ball to spare.What a match that was!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!My blood pressure would have shot up several notches during the course of that match.When RSA won,I screamed and yelled and screached as if there is no tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!So much so that my neighbours knocked the door to find out what had happened to me !!!!They were worried...lol.That match kind of confirmed once again that my support for RSA isn't going to die easily.In April 06,the SAF's defeated NZL in a 3 three test series 2-0.It was played in April-May,when winter had set in,in swinging and spicy conditions.In July 2006,RSA toured SRL without the services of their captain and Kallis.What a body blow!!!!!!!!!!They lost the test series 0-1.But the second test of that series should have been won by RSA.They lost by a wicket,not able to 'grind the noses' of the opposition to dust when they had them on the mat.The tri-nation ODI tournament that was to follow was cancelled due to 'security fears' following a bomb blast close to the hotel where the SAF's were staying.The next six months saw RSA defeating Zim in a three match ODI series 3-0,reaching the semifinal of the Mini World Cup in India,thrashing India 4-0 in a 5 match ODI series,defeating India 2-1 in a competitive test series.Then Pakistan came.RSA edged out Pak in a tight three test series 2-1 before soundly thrashing them 3-1 in a 5 match ODI series.That..........and Aus' loss to NZL in a three match ODI series pushed RSA to the top of the ODI rankings...............A great achievement for a team which was going through a torturous phase barely two years back..............
This love for South Africa began in 1996,when I was in fourth grade.I got interest in the wonderful game of cricket during the 96 World Cup.I,like any other Indian,wanted India to win.India played really well to reach the semi-final,where they lost to a much better Sri Lanka.About a month later,India ,Pakistan and RSA took part in a triangular ODI tournament in Sharjah known as the 'Pepsi Cup'.RSA were expected to just fill the numbers in that tournament,by many 'cricket experts'!!!!!!!!!now beat that!!!!!!!!However,RSA proved to be a formidable force by winning their four group matches,decimating India and Pakistan twice.India scraped through to the final on the back of a solitary convincing win over Pakistan(helped by a superior Net run rate).RSA did themselves no harm by 'knocking the stuffing'(hmmn.............must admit.....as much as I hate Australian cricket.....I love using 'Aussie cricket phrases') out of India in the final and were crowned winners.It was at that moment that something 'inside me'(my 'inner voice'..ala Sonia Gandhi.........how touched I was...I realised someone else also had an inner voice.....lol) 'connected' me with South Africa.Watching those RSA cricketers on the field and fans in the stadium made me feel as if I am one of them.From then on,my 'association' with RSA began and it has lasted for 11 years.It will last till the last breath of my life.I have wonderful memories of RSA cricket etched in my memory .Wessels Johannes Cronje's inspirational captaincy,the 'golden team' of the 90's which came 'oh-so-close' to winning the 99 WC,RSA defeating India in India in a two-test series in FEB 2000 becoming the first foreign team to beat India in their home territory since 87,RSA subduing Pakistan in Pakistan 1-0 in a three-test series in 97 and also in the quadrangular ODI tournament that followed,the MINI WORLD CUP victory in 98,defeating NZL in NZL in a three test and five match ODI series in Mar 99,outclassing England in a mammoth five-test series and a triangular ODI tournament in late99-early 2000.The list is endless.But of course,there was a bomb waiting to explode .RSA cricket went through one of its worst phases in 2000 when the match-fixing scandal broke out.Like most cricket lovers then,I couldn't believe my ears on hearing Cronje being associated with such a heinous crime. When he did however admit his involvement in matchfixing,I was shellshocked.It was like the fall of the Berlin Wall,an admission of that magnitude.Some of my dearest friends then had said that my support for RSA would end now that Hansie wasn't going to be involved in cricket any more.But to my surprise and even theirs,my loyalty towards RSA cricket grew leaps and bounds.I become even more passionate and dedicated in my support for RSA cricket.When Hansie was given a life ban,I must admit I felt quite dismayed because I didn't believe he deserved such an atrociously harsh punishment because after all,he had lead RSA to so many test and ODI wins.That life ban included a ban on coaching,setting up coaching clinics,commentating.But I knew life and also RSA cricket had to move on.
Shaun Pollock had the unenviable task of uniting and stabilising the shaken foundations of RSA cricket and also of the RSA fans.Surprisingly,he took to captaincy like a fish to water.Test and ODI series wins were notched up under Polly's captaincy with alarming regularity.Then came the real test......AUSTRALIA.In Dec 2001,RSA toured Australia for a three test series followed by a triangular ODI series involving NZL.RSA were crushed deservedly.They played lacklustre cricket and were 'straightened out' by the 'sledging' and 'abuse' loving Aussies.RSA ,however,more than made up for that loss by playing well for most part of the triangular ODI series that followed.They reached the finals and defeated NZL 2-0.Then it was Australia's turn to experience the sights and sounds of RSA on a tour of the Republic immediately after the end of that Triangular Series.RSA were hammered inside three days in the first test at Johannesburg and fought hard in the second ,before going on to lose the test and with it the series.RSA did well to win the third test.In the seven-match ODI series that followed,RSA were trounced 1-6 by the rampaging Aussies.I really felt a huge sense of loss at that moment in time.However,things began to look much more brighter for RSA towards the end of 2002.They entered the 03 WC as one of the hot favourites,only to be shockingly eliminated in the first round in tragic circumstances.They again produced lacklustre performances,especially with the ball,in front of their adoring home fans.Their elimination could not hav e come at a worse time for me,for my S.S.C. examination was supposed to begin on Mar 5 and RSA were eliminated on Mar 3.Jeez...........I was just crestfallen.Mom had other worries in mind,whether RSA's ouster would impact my S.S.C. performance.Thankfully ,it did not.Graeme Smith ,a 21 year old 'novice' was appointed as RSA captain.A bold decision,it seemed!!!!!!!!!!
His first match saw RSA being routed by India in Dhaka.But with time,he learnt the tricks of the trade and matured as a captain.The English tour from June-Sep 2003 was a revelation in so much as that it exposed Smith's and the 'new' RSA cricket team's weaknesses but also revealed Graeme's mental toughness and his ability to 'gutz it out'.His two consecutive double hundreds were fantastic and a delight to watch.RSA performed admirably in that test serieswhich was drawn 2-2.In Oct 2003,Smith led RSA to a dramatic comeback 3-2 win over Pakistan in Pakistan in an ODI series.Wins over WI in a 4 test series and 5 match ODI series followed.Everything seemed rosy for RSA at that point in time.But there were serious flaws lurking.Those flaws were thoroughly exposed in NZL in Feb 04 when RSA were pummeled into submission by the smart Kiwis in a 6 match ODI series.The ensuing 3 test series also produced patchy performances from RSA,although the final result was a drawn series,1-1.The period from July 2004 to Jan 2005 was one of the most wretched phases in RSA cricket post readmission.The SAF's lost a 2 test series to SRL in SRL in Aug 04 followed by a 0-5 'brownwash' at the hands of the Lankans in a 5 match ODI series.RSA cricket was reduced to as low as an ebb.The mini WC in Sep 04 also resulted in humiliation as RSA were kicked out in the first round.It was time for action now.Eric Simmons,the coach was sacked.Certain hard questions were posed to RSA cricketers.They were told to either 'perform or perish'.Mark Boucher was dropped from the RSA party to tour India for a two test series in Nov 2004.RSA lost the series 0-1.The next two months produced even more dissapointment as RSA played some really inconsistent cricket losing a five test series to England on home soil 1-2.It was a humiliation.The cricketers' commitment to cricket was questioned.It seemed to many that some players in the side were taking their place for granted.In the meanwhile,new talents in the form of Dale Steyn and AB de Villiers emerged on the scene performing exceedingly well.
However, in a sudden turn of events,the 7 match ODI series against England in Feb 05 resulted in achange of fortune for the SAF's.They played some 'attacking cricket',not what they are known for.The series was won 4-1.The series saw some fantastic,belligerent hitting by Justin Kemp,inspiring batting by Smith,good all round bowling and fielding display by the SAF's.There was an element of spice as well since Kevin Pietersen(RSA born) was a member of the English side and he scored hundreds in that series,in vain though.The next 2 years were absolutely fantastic for RSA cricket.RSA defeated Zimbabwe in a 2 test and 3 match ODI series 2-0 and 3-0 expectedly.They then defeated WI in a 4 test and 5 match ODI series 2-0 and 5-0.Charl Langeveldt took a marvellous 'pressure situation' hatrick in the third match of the ODI series that clinched a series win for RSA.Everyone contributed.It was a good all round performance,cliched that may sound though.In the coming months ,RSA thrashed NZL 4-0 in a 5 match ODI series,drew level against India in India in a 5 match ODI series 2-2.Then,RSA, in December 2005,left for a two month tour of Australia which involved three tests and a tri-nation ODI tournament consisting of the Lankans.RSA lost the test series 0-2,but the scoreline doesn't reflect the true picture.The series was marred by woeful umpiring decisions most of which went against RSA,dropped catches which cost RSA badly;injuries to Kallis,Ntini,Langeveldt and also racial abuse directed at RSA cricketers by Australian fans and expat Safricans probably.All these factors contributed to a South African loss in both the test series and ODI tournament.In March 2006,however,RSA defeated Australia in a 5 match ODI series 3-2 ,culminating in a famous RSA win over the Ozzies in which they chased down 434 scored by Australia,with one ball to spare.What a match that was!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!My blood pressure would have shot up several notches during the course of that match.When RSA won,I screamed and yelled and screached as if there is no tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!So much so that my neighbours knocked the door to find out what had happened to me !!!!They were worried...lol.That match kind of confirmed once again that my support for RSA isn't going to die easily.In April 06,the SAF's defeated NZL in a 3 three test series 2-0.It was played in April-May,when winter had set in,in swinging and spicy conditions.In July 2006,RSA toured SRL without the services of their captain and Kallis.What a body blow!!!!!!!!!!They lost the test series 0-1.But the second test of that series should have been won by RSA.They lost by a wicket,not able to 'grind the noses' of the opposition to dust when they had them on the mat.The tri-nation ODI tournament that was to follow was cancelled due to 'security fears' following a bomb blast close to the hotel where the SAF's were staying.The next six months saw RSA defeating Zim in a three match ODI series 3-0,reaching the semifinal of the Mini World Cup in India,thrashing India 4-0 in a 5 match ODI series,defeating India 2-1 in a competitive test series.Then Pakistan came.RSA edged out Pak in a tight three test series 2-1 before soundly thrashing them 3-1 in a 5 match ODI series.That..........and Aus' loss to NZL in a three match ODI series pushed RSA to the top of the ODI rankings...............A great achievement for a team which was going through a torturous phase barely two years back..............
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Menace Of Pseudo-secularism
The controversy over the so called 'communally sensitive' ads published by the BJP in UP newspapers is just a clear case of the media making a mountain out of a molehill.The points raised by the BJP in those ads are very pertinent and worth pondering over.To say that the minority community in question would be hurt by the ads is just shameless pandering to the pseudo-secularist lobby of which there is no shortage in India.The 'terror appeasement' policies followed by the existing government make it all the more necessary for these issues to be raised and debated in the public spectrum.Only those who support and sympathise with 'anti-national' elements will feel offended by the ads.The very concept of secularism preached by some of our political parties and by sections of the media needs to be changed because it is biased and warped.I appeal to the media to resist making this a 'mountain' of an issue since that will give the 'pseudo-secularists' a weapon to 'poison' the electorate with.
Monday, April 09, 2007
On A Lighter Note..........!
This was Ananth's prattle when he was a little kid.
ANANTH'S PRATTLE
Word -Ananth's equivalent
Tomato -Tamhane
Edathiko (Take me) -Eatha
HariOm -Aadhi Om
Balloon -Badoon
Aranganam (I want to get down) -Aanga
Socks -Sak
Poram (Enough) -Pom
Ambulimama (Moon) -Ambiti
Plane -Pane
Please -Pees
Venkatesh -Benkatesh
Sorry -Thorry
Krishnan -Kitis
Thank you -Thangu
Dosa -Tothai
Torandha Tha (Open and give) -Tondha
Bread -Bedha
Payam (Banana) -Pam
News -Noose
Pen -Pendh
Murali -Munnu
Sugar - Sakas
Goodnight -Goodin
Laddoo -Dadoo
These words(Ananth specials) were sent to me by Uncle Krishnan.I would like to express my thanks to him.Got to give credit where it is due!!!!!!.....lol
ANANTH'S PRATTLE
Word -Ananth's equivalent
Tomato -Tamhane
Edathiko (Take me) -Eatha
HariOm -Aadhi Om
Balloon -Badoon
Aranganam (I want to get down) -Aanga
Socks -Sak
Poram (Enough) -Pom
Ambulimama (Moon) -Ambiti
Plane -Pane
Please -Pees
Venkatesh -Benkatesh
Sorry -Thorry
Krishnan -Kitis
Thank you -Thangu
Dosa -Tothai
Torandha Tha (Open and give) -Tondha
Bread -Bedha
Payam (Banana) -Pam
News -Noose
Pen -Pendh
Murali -Munnu
Sugar - Sakas
Goodnight -Goodin
Laddoo -Dadoo
These words(Ananth specials) were sent to me by Uncle Krishnan.I would like to express my thanks to him.Got to give credit where it is due!!!!!!.....lol
A Wake Up Call For All Of India!
7/11 terror attacks in Mumbai,Varanasi terror attack in March 2006,29/10 Delhi blasts,dithering over the hanging of a CONVICTED terrorist,bonafide terrorists like Abu Salaym,Valiullah having the audacity to express interest in contesting elections in UP,etc. have proved that the Government lacks a comprehensive national security strategy. Terrorism is a menace afflicting the world.It has hit India the hardest on so many occasions.Our leaders(I doubt that we should call them as such) run the country in such a callous and cavalier fashion.Inspite of so many terror attacks,the govt shows complete impotence and spinelessness in dealing with terrorism.India is probably the only country in the world which has repealed a stringent anti-terror law which would have been effective in the long run.The moment someone talks of a stringent anti-terror law,they are branded 'communal' which is unfortunate.Appeasement politics is not going to take India forward.The govt and the civil society which must learn to be vigilant has to take certain tough decisions in the interest of national security.Otherwise,the toothless laws in effect currently will not serve as a deterrent to terrorists.As far as Pakistan is concerned,"peace with dignity" is what I want,not"peace at any cost".If the cost of 'peace' with Pakistan is going to be loss of thousands of innocent lives,then we will have to rethink our rapproachment/relationship with Pakistan.
'Shameless Political Activism'
The PM's suggestion that courts could have indulged in judicial 'overreach' is absolutely unjustified.The judiciary,with its pros and cons,is one of the most trustworthy institutions in our 'democracy'.It has certainly fulfilled its duties in a much more praiseworthy manner than our political class.Seeing the pool of ills in which Indian politics is drowned in and the rising public anger with the politicians ,it is only inevitable and justified that the courts ask the government to be accountable and transparent.Therein lies the problem.The government has something to hide,hence the fear of justified 'judicial interrogation' in public interest.If the government succeeds in its mission of unreasonably cutting the 'wings' of the judiciary,then the resulting damage would be grave.
Filthy Mumbai!
The AC Nielson ORG-Marg survey which ranks Mumbai low on cleanliness just shows what all Mumbaikars have known and seen for years.Mumbai getting a makeover is fine,but what good is a makeover if the citizens themselves do not undergo a 'makeover' i.e.'civilising' themselves by inculcating clean and good habits like keeping the surroundings clean,not spitting and littering,etc.The sight of paan-spit stained roads is just nauseating.Road dividers are freshly painted 'yellow and black' and within a few days,paan-spit stains are strewn all over them.It is not just fellow Indians who will have a negative image of Mumbai,but even foreign visitors.I urge the media to play a more pro-active role in this matter by urging the citizens to play their part in creating cleaner,purer and healthier cities.Therefore,the BMC move to fine and punish 'cleanliness offenders' must be applauded.
Wake Up,BCCI!
The announcement of the creation of a parallel cricket league called the 'Indian Cricket League'by Essel Group is very interesting.If implemented smartly since there are many potholes that lie in its path of implementation,this concept would revolutionise Indian cricket.It will bring back focus and infuse life into Indian domestic cricket.The attention that we pay to the performance and profiles of our national cricketers will be reduced.I would even go the extent of saying that it would 'sophisticate' Indian domestic cricket and bring it in touch with 'modern realities' of the game.The development of the 'convoluted' Indian domestic cricket structure has been fairly stagnant over the past many years.The fact that international cricketers could also be playing just makes the idea even more exciting.Let's not compare this to the 70's'Kerry Packer'isation of international cricket as of now.Interesting times lie ahead for Indian cricket.
Judiciary:The Saviour
The SC verdict staying the decision to implement quotas for OBC's in higher education is a highly progressive one.It only reinforces my faith in the judiciary.Progressive thinking is the need of the hour,not retrogade thinking which is adopted by our political parties.That they will go to any lengths to indulge in votebank politics is a well-established fact.The continuation of quotas in our educational system only encourages and sustains casteism,which is something totally contrary to the vision most of us progressive Indians have of a 'modern and rising' India.India in its 60th year of independence certainly can do away with quotas and adopt 'affirmative action' policies instead.Meritocracy should be the only criteria in getting admission in any field.The problem is,will our politicians listen to the SC verdict and implement it in its entirety or as expected,tinker with it shamelessly?
Own Up To Gruesome Facts
200 years back,on 25 March 1807,the British Parliament voted to ban slave trade.It was a momentous event in the history of mankind.The Trans-Atlantic slave trade was a curse on humanity,cruel and barbaric,perpetrated by the so called 'civilised' Western World.The destruction ,raping of African culture and heritage took place because of the slave trade.The guilt of the complicit nature of the Church in the early years of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade is also something the Church and the West would have to live with.Nothing can be done to erase the painful memories Africans have of slave trade.But an apology from the 'main parties' involved in the Trans-Atlantic slave trade can go a long way in assuaging the feelings of Africans and also in erasing the guilt which many whites feel because of the fact that their forefathers and foremothers were involved in the slave trade.I hope that countries learn lessons from the past and strive to prevent enslavement of any community in any part of the world i.e.Darfur.
At The Crossroads
The controversy over land acquisition at Nandigram for a SEZ has only highlighted the conundrum the West Bengal government is facing over its industrialisation policies.The need of the hour is liberalisation.There will be opposition,no doubt.But a comprehensive rehabilitation package is the answer.A complete rollback of the SEZ policy would be disastrous for West Bengal.It has a lot of potential for economic growth and industrialisation.This oppurtunity must not be frittered away by bowing down to 'politically motivated' opposition.The govt must stick to its beliefs and propel Bengal on the path of growth through sensible industrialisation policies.They have the mandate of the people.The time for industrialisation of West Bengal has arrived.The fruits of industrialisation will be seen some years from now.There must be a loosening of the 'hardcore communist' economic ideology that has prevailed in West Bengal over the past 30 years.
Politics Over National Security?
The PDP's demand for troop reduction is absolutely ill-conceived and ridiculous.Why are they hell bent on playing politics over national security?The terror infrastructure in Pakistan and POK is still very much intact.If troop reduction takes place,that would make the job much more easier for terrorists.Troop reduction can be a viable option only if Pakistan and China do the same.Otherwise,India will only end up with its pride and dignity stripped in front of the world as has been the case in the past.The Indian military is being made out to be some kind of monster which is certainly not the case.It is these very politicians who are protected by our security personnel.How cowardly can one get?I very much appreciate the sensible and rational stand taken by Ghulam Nabi Azad.Hope the UPA govt listens to him and doesn't indulge in a massacre of our national and terrorial security interests by demilitarising J&K and instead take firm decisions based on real politik by respecting the Indian military's concerns.
Bob Woolmer:Will Always Rememeber You
The death of Bob Woolmer is a tragic loss for the game of cricket.He will be forever remembered and deeply missed by the cricketing world and the genuine cricket loving public.Very rarely has a cricket coach been as impactful and visionary as Bob Woolmer.He had a vision for the game of cricket on how it should be run,globalised,and on the use of technology in cricket.The sad part is that he still had much to offer.His cheerful demeanour,accessibility to the media,fairness and honesty endeared him to one and all.He was a coach in the truest sense of the term,not just a coach for the sake of being one.His readiness to help out any cricketer in their difficult times to iron out their cricketing problems was a wonderful quality.He developed so many coaching styles and theories which was truly admirable.He played a crucial role in harnessing the talents of players like Jacques Kallis,Mark Boucher,Shaun Pollock,all of them being modern cricketing greats.The wonders he worked with Warwickshire and South Africa are a case in point.To see him being consumed by destiny like this definitely leaves a lump in your throat.But his coaching legacy will always live on in the hearts and minds of all of us.
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