The
fifth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded recently with Kolkata
Knight Riders lifting the trophy. IPL has evoked mixed response, with the proponents
calling it perhaps the best thing that has ever happened to cricket while the
critics have constantly blackguarded the IPL, calling it a mere money spinner,
likening it to a horse race, and what not.
The
IPL has given rise to a number of opportunities on and off the field. IPL has
evolved as a platform for implementation of ideas and technologies. The
strategic time outs and the ultra motion run out cameras have taken the game to
a new level and several of these technologies and ideas will soon be tested at
the international level.
The
IPL has provided a great opportunity for new players to evolve and understand
the game in a better way. A few years ago most players representing local clubs
and teams like railways could not even dream of playing alongside the likes of
Sachin Tendulkar and Shane Warne and being mentored by the likes of Anil Kumble
and Wasim Akram, which is now a common sight! A few years ago cricketing
rivalry made sure that opponents did not see eye to eye, but today players get
a chance to share the dressing room with their international opponents where
they share ideas and develop new understanding, which is good for the game.
A
large number of former players too have benefitted greatly from the IPL. They
now play an active part in the management of the teams along with coaching and
mentoring youngsters. Several former players who could not do well in their
playing days have grabbed the opportunity provided by IPL with both hands and
have played a great role in the successful turnaround of several teams. IPL has
also evolved as a platform where the contributions made by some former players
have been acknowledged and these players have been handsomely rewarded by the
BCCI.
Off
the field, the IPL has presented vast opportunities to advertisers, companies,
broadcasters, etc. Advertisers and companies have come up with innovative ideas
to market their products to get associated with brand IPL. Terms like “DLF
Maximum” and “Karbonn Kamaal Catch” are classical examples of embedded
marketing. The brand/company names have been prominently displayed on the
jerseys of the players, making it impossible to overlook them.
The
public at large has been thoroughly entertained with eclectic commentary during
the IPL matches which has always been promoted as a medium of family
entertainment. Conversations with players and coaches during the match and the
recent management case studies based on IPL have helped us to develop a deeper
understanding of the game and the way it is played in modern times.
It
should not be forgotten that controversies have been a part and parcel of IPL.
Critics often call IPL the “Indian Paisa League” and allegations like
Spot-Fixing and FEMA violations repeatedly come up. Some critics have gone even
to the extent of asking a ban on the IPL! We need to ensure that steps are
taken so that the gentleman’s game maintains its sanctity and, in the mad rush
to attain glory and money, young cricketing brains and talent are not polluted.
If
the faults and ills associated with the IPL are taken care of, IPL will
definitely emerge as a breeding ground for fresh ideas, talent and
entertainment.
