Indian players, support staff spend the day discussing the T20 league drama
Indian players, support staff spend the day discussing the T20 league drama
India's vice-captain Virender Sehwag summarily dismissed the question when approached for a reaction. But Sehwag was just being himself when he was asked about his opinion on the Indian Premier League being shifted. He just does not want to get involved in any discussion.
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Sneaky Little Master: Sachin Tendulkar (right) scores past goalkeeper Ishant Sharma during a training session at the Eden Park Stadium in Auckland early this morning. PICS/AFP |
His mood was contrary to most others in the team who were not only keen to know more but also wanted to share their inputs.
SuspenseSome in the support staff were trying to convince each other why it is still likely that the IPL will happen in India. "Don't believe it till the first ball is bowled. You cannot just move a tournament like IPL out of India. How will it have our (Indian) flavour? It is not as simple as they think it is," said a support staff member. Coach Gary Kirsten was solicited for inputs on the weather in Johannesburg in May and his information left most disappointed. "It will be freezing cold in May," Kirsten said.
One of the fast bowlers appeared unconcerned by all the IPL talk. "Wherever it is, we have got to play isn't it?
Then why bother?'' was the simple refrain of one of the speedsters while his pace partner asked in a very concerned manner: "Will we have to fly directly from here?''
The Indian tour to New Zealand ends on April 8 and the IPL starts on April 10.
Holding the tournament abroad was always going to be a risky proposition for the organisers. As one of the players pointed out: "What profit will the franchisees get in hosting the tournament abroad? Nothing.'' His close colleague in the team nodded in agreement: "That's what we were discussing yesterday.''
Some others were discussing the possible political fall-out of the entire event. "I am sure elections will be impacted. That's what I get to understand from reading the reports,'' said a player.
Few others were keen to know if England has been confirmed as the venue as was being speculated during the course of the day. "Has England been confirmed? If you hear please let me know as well. I am very keen to know."
Favourite venues
One set of senior players were already thinking two steps ahead. They were keen to know possible venues in England. "Trent Bridge should not host the matches please... the ball swings a lot there,'' joked one. While the other hoped that Leicester is kept out: "There is too much noise there".
But for most of them, England seemed to be a logical venue for the tournament. "Imagine King's XI Punjab at Birmingham. It is home away from home," analysed one.
The best was when few in the Indian support staff asked: "Has IPL been shifted out of India officially or unofficially? Still 50-50 or completely shifted?" The Indian team sure know how their cricket is run.
