Cricketing Infamy

Cricketing Infamy

The most recent shocker in the Indian context is the new form of game fixing in cricket, spot fixing has hit the headlines. It is so disheartening to see how the much adored and adulated sport has become synonymous to the betting. As popularised by Indian media channels, IPL has now earned a dubious distinction of Indian Punters League. Indian public is taken on a ride again, for their ridiculous love towards the game.

I am not a cricket expert to comment anything in detail about it. But as a commoner I am little worried about the state of the affairs in general. Does success, fame glory at a young age really spoil the youngsters?

The other day I was watching a 15 min program on one the tainted cricketer. He failed to thrive as a reliable player due to his inconsistent performance and thus failed to make a mark of his own. But I was fascinated by his talent in different activities. He had started a music band, successfully released an album, performed well on stage and in reality shows as well. He is not exceptionally talented, but he adorned several caps. This is seemingly the outward picture of the ex-cricketer. He is famous for his tantrums, aggressive behaviour and hence less popular for his on- field behaviour. With the recent spot-fixing scandal certain things have come to lime light. At present only three players were caught for their role in the muddle. The compelling evidence and hi-tech modes of betting clearly indicate that the muck is very deep. This clearly shows the existence of a category of crooks resorting to cheap tricks and mean acts just for quick bucks/ luxury. As more information about the connections and private lives of the tainted players is revealed by the information savvy media, the plot is getting much thicker and intricate.

On one hand we have the players who have disgraced the sport. On the other hand, there are a class of cricket players in the present generation who are venerated for their impeccable behaviour. They are admired and respected in cricketing circles. What seems to be glaringly lacking among former category of players is the character. When an individual is a part of the Indian cricket team, it is considered as a tribute to his talent and his character as well. They are looked and watched upon by more than billion people whose hopes are tied with their performance. Younger children watch them with admiration and delight. They become role models and icons for them. In a cricket frenzy nation like ours, it is a matter of great honour and prestige to represent our nation in the International arena. Millions of young people work tireless day and night to acclaim that honour and dream of it relentlessly. In face of stiff competition and several ordeals people make it to the national team. For an ardent cricket fan he is a demi-god even.

Aspiring young players put in their heart and soul to earn the reputation of a good cricketer. Their commitment and devotion is unquestionable. For they know that they will be rewarded bountifully if they have a good cricketing career. Unlike other sports, cricketers in India are paid well and there is no dearth for sponsorship for promising and upcoming players.

Though this is not the first time, cricket being plagued by match fixing ailments, but looking at the extensive global spread, betting seems to be more far flung and deep rooted. Iam quite perplexed by the huge network. These events have warranted me to think about the cricketers. They attained the reputation of a good cricketer due to their hard work and commitment towards the game. Then why did they become so greedy about the riches and the luxuries?  Why do they have to resort to nasty activities? Are they getting easily enticed by quick money? Is the glory of the success and the limelight which they  are receiving at a young age putting them at cross roads where they are willing to compromise their morals and values? Is getting too much, too early is the root cause for their disgraceful activities?

Instead of imparting morals and values at a young age are we making children run after success ruthlessly unmindful of the sequence of the events that will entail on them for their immoral activities? Are these the lessons to be learnt by the parents? It is time to stop and think.  Are the overambitious parents pushing their wards to that extreme point where nothing but success, fame, glory alone matter?????

 

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