Hats off Kannadigas!

‘Wouldn’t Mumbai respond the Kolkatta-way if Sachin is dropped from the side?’
Asked most of the Bengal-based newspapers after Sourav Ganguly was shown the door. I don’t know the answer to this but Bangaloreans certainly showed a lot of maturity after selection of Indian cricket team for Sri Lanka.

BCCI has this funny way of behaving is no secret. And they are the way they are since they exist. In Mohinder Amarnath’s words – “Jokers”.

After the fantastic debut performance, if ever Ajit Agarkar looked settled, it was in the recently concluded India – WI ODI series. He knew the way pitches were behaving. He knew where to bowl. He knew what his role was. And despite of that he was dropped from the test squad. Most knowledgeable cricketers & critics found the verdict rather surprising.

Similar verdict was repeated couple of days ago in case of Anil Kumble. One of the best match-winning bowlers of recent times… in pink of his form… and part of the ‘scheme of things’ for the ensuing world cup.

When the reports came in that Rahul Dravid, a state-mate, is the person who’ll take a final call about his place, I was almost certain about his inclusion. Considering Kumble being in the reckoning for the world cup squad, his exclusion was a surprise to me.

However I was more surprised, albeit pleasantly, at the maturity & restraint that Bangaloreans have shown towards reacting to his exclusion. I think it’s something worth emulating by one and all. Rising above the local interests and thinking for the country as a whole.

Hats of Bangaloreans! Hats off Kannadigas!