amitabh jotwani

As the World cup draws to a close, I gather my thoughts and bring forth my insights on the biggest cricketing event and the reasons that make it the most forgetful cup ever -

1. This has to be the first one, probably one of the biggest ones too – among all the hoo haas and the humongous expectations, India and Pakistan fail to make it to super eights
2. Pakistan Coach Bob Woolmer mudered the day after Pakistan lose to Ireland.
3. Empty Stadium stands – Stupid ticket pricing, poor marketing and maybe in part due to India and Pakistan not qualifying for super eight. The Carribean crowd has been known for it’s bands and dancing in the stands, it was definitely missed at the World cup.
4. Senseless tournament format – Now you can slam me for this, but I continue to believe that the format was shocking to say the least – here’s why
5. Senseless scheduling of matches – You would think that the administrators would want maximum stadium and TV audience for atleast the semis, well throw those thoughts through the window cause the semis are scheduled for a Tuesday and a Wednesday!
6. Too long and boring schedule – When the world cup runs for 2 months, you know there is something wrong.
7. Below International standard grounds – Not much grass on a lot of grounds, you could infact see dust flying all over in the outfield. Believe it or not, a lot of these stadiums are still under construction!
8. The insensitive fans and media backlash – It did not make pretty pictures, fans breaking through players’ homes, crazy people burning effigies, threats to players’ families – and ironically, the media covering and blowing up all of it – really very unfortunate and totally uncalled for
9. Security and safety concerns – Fire in the hotel, coach murdered – just makes you sit up and question the security and safety
10. The God accused – Sachin Tendulkar is dragged into a controversy for the first time in his 17 year career. His attitude questioned by the coach Greg Chappell – Unfortunate is all you can say.

But this can all be fine…really guys…just fine…we will remember this world cup for ever…We will party all night..but that will be if and only if…Australia does not win the cup….anybody but Australia….did I hear you say “Yes!” ?? amen to that…

Did I miss some reasons? Do you have more reasons that make this world cup more forgetful or may be memorable? Be sure to write in your comments!