IPL – from cricket to business
As we head into the homestretch of the Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament, it is perhaps as good a time as any to look back on the past five weeks that, to say the last, have been tumultuous. For sure, cricket has taken a new course and it will never be the same again.
As a concept, the IPL has given the local player a taste of international stage - rubbing shoulders with the stars, playing in front of massive crowds and of course, the Media exposure. To an extent, it has fast-forwarded their careers, though I will be the first to admit that performances in T20 are at best indicators to one’s ability and potential, and nothing more
Of course, the purists are still frowning on the “peripherals” or the so-called entertainment elements that have been used to “dress up” the tournament. For many, it has been a culture shock of sorts, but then, they are in the minority, like it or not. The paying public is not complaining.
“For me, cricket is secondary. I am here to have a good time. It is far better than going to a pub and getting tanked up. It is cheaper to attend an IPL game, listen to some music, dance a bit and generally have some fun with friends. Of course, there is cricket and the sixes. But for me, it is pure entertainment,” said Rajeev, a techie employed with one of the software companies on the OMR.