The two major events that showcased the prowess of Indian cricket were the triumph at Perth and the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. These events not only demonstrated the progress, focus, and genuine love that millions of Indians have for cricket but also underscored India’s role in leading the sport globally. The seeds for this global leadership have been sown, as cricket is gradually becoming a force to be reckoned with around the world, a fact that should fill every Indian cricket fan with pride.
The game is like a cult movement spreading gradually to the four corners of the world. It has been modernised through the limited-over versions while maintaining its origins.
The spread of people from the cricket-playing countries who settled in areas where cricket hardly existed has led to its popularity and interest. The cricket leagues in Europe, the United States of America, and the Middle East are just the beginning of the rise that will definitely catapult the game to a better future.
India’s remarkable victory in Perth against Australia was a game-changer, igniting fresh interest in the Test series. With points at stake for the World Test Championship 2025, each match has now gained significant importance.
The 1st innings of the 1st Test match of the Australia and India encounter was like an act in a play that went awry. India being bowled out for 150 runs showed how their batters were unfamiliar with the conditions; however, to have Australia at 67 for 7 at the end of the day was quite remarkable, a fight back. The Indian captain, Jaspreet Bumrah, demolished the top order with a bowling spell that had the cricketing world stand up and applaud. The praise that was bestowed upon him, thereafter, by cricketing legends, who have in their time destroyed bowlers, was so pleasing to hear.
This reminds one of the time when the Indian spinners were renowned as Indian magicians. They bewildered batsmen with what was popularly termed the “Indian rope trick,” leaving batters confused, hanging in mid-air, and in despair. Bumrah had the Australian batters in the same state of hopelessness.
The revival of the Indian team after their disastrous series against New Zealand at home was amazing. This raises the question of why the local-born cricketers are now struggling in their backyard. India prepared a spinning wicket and found their batters and bowlers struggling, whereas the Australians were at sea on their fast, bouncy track. Maybe it is the lack of playing domestic cricket, mainly due to the extensive and taxing international cricket schedule being played now. Both the batters and bowlers sometimes struggle to adapt to their turf.
Indian cricket is truly on a high. Talented young cricketers are mushrooming like never before; however, one who has taken the cricketing world by storm is Yashasvi Jaiswal. He has the skill and the batting capabilities to carry forward the legacy of the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma when they call it a day.
In the 70s, one wondered whether India would ever have a batsman to match Sunil Gavaskar. Then Sachin Tendulkar graced the Indian cricket scene, followed by Virat Kohli. Each one in a class of their own and one that cricketers around the world acknowledged and bowed to their performance. Indian cricket now has a rising star in Jaiswal, one who could keep the interest of the Indian mathematical and statistical minds and followers of the game ticking.
The recent victory against Australia has put the Indian team back on track. As they prepare for the second Test match, a day-and-night affair in Adelaide, a positive mindset is crucial. However, they will be facing a resurgent Australian side, a dangerous opponent with players like Bumrah and Md. Siraj is ready to face the likes of Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rohit Sharma. Their task will not be easy. A positive mindset and strategic planning will be key to their success.
The IPL has emerged as a powerful entity
The IPL auction was another significant event in the world of Indian cricket this week. The most thrilling aspect was its location in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a country not traditionally associated with cricket. The substantial increase in the amount spent on players brought joy to many, and the IPL has now become a powerful and vital entity in the lives of cricketers in India and worldwide. The tournament is rapidly ascending to become one of the top sports-related events, and modern technology has made it easily accessible to fans. The IPL has become the platform for cricketers to achieve overnight stardom, and it is filled with countless inspiring rags-to-riches stories.
A 13-year-old Indian junior cricketer, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, has become the youngest cricketer to become a crorepati at the IPL auction. Rajasthan Royals bought him for 1.1 crore. A talented cricketer, as one gathers, who is from a small village in Bihar. The young boy impressed one and all when he scored a century against the U-19 Australian side. One hopes and prays that the early success does not divert the youngster from his goals.
This is an excellent example of what is in store for one to see in the years to come. Young, mature, and skilful cricketers come forth in abundance.
Indian cricket will truly be shining, then.
Yajuvindra Singh—IANS
(Yajurvindra Singh is a former India cricketer. The views expressed are personal.)
Caption : Perth [Australia]: Indian captain Jasprit Bumrah celebrates with teammates after securing a win in the first Test match against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Perth Stadium on Monday, November 25, 2024. (Photo: IANS)
