Originally published on March 8, 2008



Rewinding to the World XI times




There is a lot of hype surrounding the Indian Cricket League which will be held over 6 weeks starting April. Cricket never had a competition worth this much over over such a short period. Is it an end to the gentleman's game as we know it. Though anyone who has watched the recent series between India and Australia may have thought "Genteman's Game!You have got to be kidding." Despite the series having dipped into a few controversies, it was one of the most entertaining series i have watched. The controversies probably had a big hand to play in that. The X VS Y match ups were eagerly awaited by all. Many top names such as Symonds, Ponting have signed up for the ICL. There is a danger that loyalty to the green and gold or any other team colour may be compromised. Money was always an item that transcends national boundaries.

Hopefully this does not happen but there is a chance that the ICL could fall flat on its face. Thinking back to the time of the World XI which generated a lot of hype. On paper, it was an excellent idea. 11 of the best cricketeers in the world VS the all conquering Australian side. However, the matches was so one sided that no cricket administrator or organiser would ever mention 'world' and 'XI' in the same sentence again. The competition in April has to pass the Litmus test that the fans set. Matches have to be closely contested, with fierce rivalries between the sides. It will be interesting to see how team mates from the same countries play against each other. Whether they hold anything back or they give it all. Should be interesting to see which way the ICL coin lands...

P.S in case you are wondering what on earth the poster above was on about!
Gayle-Gail
Sehwag-Bolt of Lightning as his recent triple century against SA affirms!
Kallis-he just seemed to me very peaceful and calm! so Yin & Yang!
Lara-i guess he's just a star!
Dravid-Wall
Sangakarra-Boxing/Keeping gloves
Pietersen- when he had THAT hairstyle
Flintoff-the modern day knight
Afridi-baseballer slogging the bat
Pollock-captain at the helm
Vettori-looks like Harry Potter!
Murali-king of spin
Akhtar-Rawalpindi Express
Ntini-he just seems the cool, ipod type.