Modi Puts Fingers in His Ears
Lalit Modi has done some good stuff this time round. Inking that deal with Google/YouTube was huge. The idea of possibly telecasting the IPL semi-finals and finals in 3D in cinema halls is certainly a fabulous bit of forward thinking. In a country yet to see high definition television enter the mainstream, this is a concept worthy of applause. He has even shown some willingness to reach out to the fans. However superficial this whole IPL exercise might seem to the purist, he's made it a major brand. But more often, he relapses into his other side that makes us stare in disbelief.
In light of security concerns expressed by England, Australia and South Africa-based players' unions, Modi has quickly come forward and dismissed them off-hand, and with stunning arrogance:
"We are going to have the tournament in India. I can't see any reason why we should move it at this point in time. The media is reacting to every fringe group saying security is a problem
The problem with that statement is it does precious little to assuage fears of foreign players. It dismisses legitimate players' associations -- which the IPL doesn't even recognize in the first place, making it even ridiculous -- and shows a lack of awareness, on the part of Modi, on which parties constitute this fringe group. [For one, Graeme Smith expressed reservations.]
Moreover, if players pull-out due to security concerns, they could be banned from future editions. So it's not like the players are given much of a choice.
There seems to be no effort made to talk to these associations. Only a message that essentially says, "everything will be fine, don't be silly." Further questioning would only be met with, "it's only rumours; people are making a big fuss out of all this; IPL is a great product; safety cannot be guaranteed; I'm awesome. Kthxbai."
I enjoy Test cricket, and I also enjoy the spectacle of the IPL. I would love for it to be held in India and establish itself (before someone decides to move it to the US in search of more cash). But I'd also like a little more sense from the commissioner. Or at least a better set of advisers telling him the difference in approach needed for shooting a promotional music video, and ensuring the safety of players from a threat that's very real and is perhaps the biggest challenge the IPL will ever face over the next decade.
PS: Is this theme easy on your eyes? Suggestions.
PPS: Ack! Prem Panicker has hit the nail on the head. You can read that piece instead.
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