World Cup Becomes A Drab Affair

image courtesy cricinfo.com

Another fracas that had little or no meaning. Sri Lanka had brownie points at stake. That they won the game in an emphatic fashion underlined the seriousness with which they approached the battle, but what they gained, in the end, apart from a bloated net run rate, is anybody's guess.

Full marks to Ireland and Bangladesh for making the super eights. But they were clearly exposed when it came to sustaining their momentum. It clearly rendered many games extraneous. Take Bangladesh's win over South Africa and Ireland’s own fifteen minutes of fame against Bangladesh out of it, and the games hardly provided the thrills a mega event should throw. The World Cup has become a bit of a drag.

This particular match, which was completed in record time, had its moments to offer. Kumar Sangakkara's acrobatic one-hander after he had moved the wrong side was a rare gem, while Maharoof, who seemed incapable of putting a fingernail wrong yesterday, effected one of the most athletic run-outs in recent history. These two efforts will form the most enduring images of the ninth World Cup.

Sri Lanka were simply unbeatable. Ireland, on the last bend of their dream run, were blown away like a sapling uprooted by a tycoon. The difference was stark and it was not good advertisement for the game.

Another match today, one of but academic interest to the remainder of the tournament - Brian Lara's match No. 298 and 299 gives him opportunities to leave on a high. With the hosts out of the tourney, much interest will revolve around the impending retirement of their captain who will at least expect his team to get their act together. Well, there is nothing wrong in leaving the stage with pride.

Far away from the Caribbean islands, there is news to be noted. The Indian selectors will sit down for one of their most intriguing meetings yet to pick the squad to tour Bangladesh. I can only hope the five-member committee does not overdo the 'youth' factor. There is nothing wrong in blooding youth but there must be a right mix of youth and experience.

There will be a lot more to talk on that subject once the team is announced. Anyway, is there much more to say about the World Cup? A tournament that has no meaning till the semi-finals begin.