My point of view.®

Blog: Migration from Bloggers

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 31 Jul 2013 23:42:00 +0530


In Migration mode

I have decide to migrate my blog from Bloggers to WordPress. It's been such a wonderful journey through bloggers. I beleieve blogging was one of the few good things that happened to me. I know frequency of blog has waned but the excitement of blog remains same as ever.

Thank you to everyone at Blogger's and Google for such a lovely platform.

The journey continues here with My point of View on WordPress. Hope you join me there.

Cricket: England gain hold

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Mon, 22 Jul 2013 18:17:00 +0530

Michael Clarke would be a very lonely man as all leaders of any loosing campaign could be. He has his plate full with things he got to do to salvage something out of the Ashes 2013 venture. There are simply too many reasons to restrict the causes that has made Australia look very ordinary over last few seasons. Cook on the other hand and go on to the field do whatever he likes and result seem to fall in his lap, straight away very easily.

England are playing ruthless cricket for the moment. I thought a series will be a well fought one but what I see leaves me a bit bemused. Australia had set such benchmarks, leaving teams only to compete second, fitness of players, awesome batting line up where everyone had capability and record of turning the match on its head, scoring runs, taking catches, triggering collapses. The bowling was envy of all, a wizard of leg spin, three excellent front line bowlers, marginal decisions or the rub of the green was often with the baggy green corner.

All this has been repeated ad-nauseum. It is history. If Australian cricket continues in its current state,they will be getting framed in an image. An image of being Once a great team. Its something how West Indies were in last fifteen years, they just fell from the roof tops.

Poms first.

Poms enjoying the Ashes, batsman are queuing up to score and bowlers even part timers are queuing up to bowl and claim prized scalps. They have taken a 2-0 lead and look good to hold on to the Ashes. Australia have come back from a deficit of two games to win the ashes just once but for that too happen someone has to play a Bradmansque series or perhaps Bradman would have more clues.

England can claim lot of comfort from the fact the big three of Cook, Peitersen and Trott haven't really fired with the bat. But I guess for the moment its Bell, and the lower order thats firing on both sides. A striking feature that the best bats haven't dented this Ashes so far. Bell in the first test, Root in the second the fact that both these innings came while England were in a spot of bother would have made the England camp a very happy one.

Anderson and Swann meanwhile have made a run away start. Broad is a handful on English conditions. Anderson claimed a bag full of wickets at Trent bridge, Swann took 9 in the match to skittle Aus out for 128. He scored some good runs with Broad at the end when Aus tried cleaning up the tail. The hung on and scored at a brisk rate to balloon English total to 360 instead of a subtle 325.

Fans loving it when Australia keeps loosing it.

The cricket fans who very often hard done by Aussies coming from behind and winning impossible matches or stringing consistency which was beyond imagination. I mean we grew up knowing Australia would win, they were hard to even compete. But no such complains any more. Cricket fans in places other than Australia are having such a jolly good time. It such a relief that they got battered by England in England, than England beat them in Australia than Saffers did it twice while visiting Australia. Yes India got blanked out Four Nil. Dhoni would have enjoyed a chuckle when Australia toured India and India turned the tables. Spinners doing the damage. Even Bhuvnesh Kumar new to test matches enjoyed bowling to Aussie batsman on placid Indian pitches.

Its the snobbery and the sledging or the mental disintegration as suggested by Steve Waugh, now I am sure they wont have much to say about their current form and performance. There use to be a lot of lip and lot of swagger.

Aussies use to be the big bullies. When they were winning series after series the tongues kept wagging and the juggernaut kept rolling. England didn't win a sniff for better part of twenty years till 2005. When Flintoff lead the bull charge. India did win at home against the Aussies at home. But now it seems all quiet on the field front. Pattinson did it last series against Graeme Smith with Aus hosted Safs. It was all in a bad taste, you play and play fair and you win gracefully Aus at times didn't do it right, there have been so many infamous incidents, often including Indian players. I guess when the Aussies started getting paid same coin and with same intensity, they didn't like their own medicine very much. There were numerous occasion in which players from all over get very partisan treatment from the Aussie fans and media and often that fueled the lip players would get on the pitch even more. Aussies at home were unbeatable. I would wonder why, know I am beginning to wonder what it would have been to form unrelenting gaze under which key players from opposition were kept under the grind the time they stepped on Aussie shores.

All that now seems to thing of the past. Yes as a marquee contest of the Cricketing world Ashes perhaps rules the roost, Indian and Pa fans may contest that, but its crickets oldest rivalry a fact which cannot be contested. Aussies seems to have fallen rather quickly from their all conquering ways. Its now time for us fans to pile on the dismay for the Aussies as Cricket Australia sees humbler days. Its not only that Australia have fallen, other teams have equally done well. Saffers have done well away from home, England have done well too, Pakistan is only playing away from home. Dhoni would look to build on, starting in limited overs format abroad, advantage at home and perhaps if his bowlers come of age than a run away from home in tests.

Tough road ahead.

The rot in performances, I mean the enormity and the rapidity with Aussies have fallen perhaps reflect the board,an odd blip in a series may be understandable but capitulation of this magnitude, tell us more about how cricket Aus have abandoned the grass roots, premier Big Bash, a T20 is played in prime cricketing season, in front of sparse crowds. In last handful of seasons no Aussie batsman has stamped his authority Aussie batting looks fragile, bowling looks decent but its hard to finish the marathon with a limp.

Aussies should have corrected their course before the end of previous Ashes, they didn't They were too large to fail, I don't know how players of over 35 years will take the Aussie cricket forward. Aus will be better fared if they threw the newbies in the bout and plan a road to recovery. For the time being, team selection, batting order, intensity, performances, camaraderie within in the team are few minor issues Cricket Australia and people who are well wishers of Australian cricket team would like to consider.

England lead Australia by 2-0, three more tests to go.

Cricket: Poms cross the Trent Bridge

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Thu, 18 Jul 2013 14:45:00 +0530

Stuart Broad not walking in the first test will come to the haunt England before this Ashes ends.

Stuart Broad edged one and held his ground. Yes he is entitled to stand in ground, Umpire Aleem Dar was perhaps right in his judgment, If only Australia had a review left. Its the tougher option and playing the match fair. Stuart Broad didn't he has sown the seed, he will reap it. Micheal Vaughan couple of Ashes ago use to hold on to his ground, technology was inconclusive he prospered in that. Haddin later stood his ground but stood his ground, England reviewed and won. England beat Australia by a close margin of 14 runs. England made it look a far even and keener contest than it should have been. Australian true to their character came back twice to almost even the battle but slipped on last pedestal

But thankfully thats wasn't the only thing riveting in this test. A wise Australian captain would take a lot of heart. Their bowlers can take 20 wickets and can score more, going by their performances Aus bowlers took wickets scored runs and did most of the donkey work obviousky batsmen should catch up sooner rather than later.

I don't know who is selecting the team but how many openers you want to play in one team? Aussie batting line up in Trent Bridge test was a line up of openers Watson, Rogers, Cowan, Hughes, and guess who scored the highest in either of the innings, Agar Ashton batting on debut at number 11 in the first innings. It was such a fabulous effort, considering he stepped in when the scorecard read 117/9, he turned the tide in favour of Australia. They should look to build on this innings. It was as if he was shielding Hughes, good enough to open in test matches.

England seem to have run into a puddle as Australia took a very good lead for 65 runs. England then put their head down and chipped away the lead, though English top order should have done more and just batted Aus out of the game, but then pitched turned lower and slower as the game went on. Their top order got starts Pietersen and Cook should have scored more but Bell scored a ton and make sure there was no collapse and easy hunt for Australia in second innings. Bell, Ian bell of all batsmen scored a tough ton for England and make sure with ever passing over, hour, session, odd get stacked against Australia.

English top order, Anderson fitness and Swan's lukewarm performances a major worry going into the second test.

While Australia are doing everything that English would want them to, Warner is sent to an African Safari, couple of changes for Australia for sure. As I write, Usman Khawaja and Ryan Harris will replace Cowan and Starc.

It was something hard to say for the Aussies for the while they were on top,but common sense missing out of Aus cricket for now. May be Dhoni should give them a prep talk.

Cricket: Preview to Ashes 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 10 Jul 2013 15:20:00 +0530

The Ashes 2013 is starts today. England vs Australia the oldest and one of the fiercest rivalry the game of cricket will know. The pomp and pageantry and history and anecdotes and how the teams have fared over a period. The heroes, the villains the gripping plot the climax and the anti thesis. A drama that unfolds. It wasn't so when Australia were ascendancy few years back. In 1987 it started it all, when Allan Border, like Michael Clarke supposedly led the worst team to land on shores of England for the conquest of The Ashes.

They lost the previous Ashes which was played in Australia was lost primarily due to Ponting's obstinacy more than anything else. Aussies found themselves in a quagmire which cost them the series. But then this time around after getting steam rolled in India perhaps a more Aussie like display would helped Aussies the most. Mickey Arthur sacking may have helped them in that direction.

Aussies the challengers

The Aussie player to watch are, the batter of fast bowlers Pattinson, Siddle, Starc, Harris, Watson with the happy knack of picking wickets. Lyon and Steve Smith with spinning capabilities. The bowlers look to get wickets, but its the batting they seem to bring on to the pitch. Aussies need to get back to the drawing board playing cricket, build partnerships play out sessions and look for safety first and perhaps English tendency to collapse in heaps probably will assist them. Warner and Watson have to come good if Aussies have to put a brave challenge. Clarke may be should bat at number four. Haddin as a keeper batsman will make the batting order.

Batting is a bit of a lag for the Aussies on current form. It will be very interesting what eleven plays for Aussies in the first test and how they sort their batting woes, perhaps will set the tone for the series. I wonder if they play both Watson and Steve Smith, gives them more options. They should probably look at what SAfs did in England and look to build. But I dont think Poms will offer those kind of pitches to Australia.

England's Ashes to loose.

Poms seems to have most bases covered. A test opener, a nibbler in form of Trott, Jet booster in form of Pietersen. A touch player in Bell. I am no fan of Bell he is the most incomplete batsmen in history, Warne use to invite him to bat and claim his wicket on will. But I guess Warne wont be bowling in this series. Prior remains a hand with the bat and English tail wags when required and fends off attacks when it come to saving tests, they saved a couple of those when Australia played last in England. Monty Panesar being the hero with the bat in the Cardiff test which was drawn. Broad is a bowler to watch. He is lethal in English conditions.

I have been not so good in predicting the series. Last few have been awful especially since India lost home and away test to England. Aussies are chasing the ghost a little bit. Aussies must resolve to put up a good fight.

The men who may matter.

The players to watch out for during the series are, Pietersen, Clarke, Watson, Starc, Warner, Clarke, Trott, Broad, Root, Anderson. Also the man on the button taking calls on DRS referrals.

Cricket: Dhoni wins Champions trophy

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 26 Jun 2013 10:27:00 +0530

There is always this saying that keeps going around, which says captain is as good as the team. Napoleon said once something to the effect that he doesn't fear an army of hundred of lions led by a sheep but fears an army hundreds of sheep led by a tiger. Dhoni got his team, he won. There are light years between Dhoni and others captains in the latest contest that saw India winning Champions trophy. Yes team matters, there have been these brilliant performances, starting but not limiting to Jadeja and Dhawan, who won the golden ball and golden bat respectively. The fielding was superlative through out the tiurnament. It made a just above decent (pace) bowling look brilliant. The top order clicked and middle order had little chances and on their way to winning the trophy, got exposed in the final a little bit, but they won all the matches, at times they looked to be losing ground but came back to win eventually.

Champions of champions

India beat previous winners, South Africa and West Indies, Sri Lanka. The first match against South Africa, which started well for the Indians. Steyn didn't play as he was ruled out on fitness grounds, Morkel broke down middle of the game, rest of the bowling didnt posed enough challenge. Sharma cut loose early and Dhwana caught up to match stroke for stroke. Sharma characteristically holed out, Dhawan went on to score his second century in as many international innings.

There were more twirls to the mustache which were to follow. Indians faulted a late charge by Jadeja and Indians ended up scoring 334. In the end it proved just enough to secure a win.

South African charge saw, Bhuvanesh claiming Ingram as the first wicket, Yadav then claimed Amla with one that took the inside edge, Amla was a man in hurry and a big wicket to restrict SAf chase early. Devilliers promoted Peterson up the order probably showed his cards to soon. Peterson and Devilliers kept building a strong base. Jadeja through a brilliant fielding spectacle claimed Peterson run-out, the trap was set for the choke. Jadeja then claimed Dumiy LBW and the bubble was just about to meet the needle, from 155 for 2 they were reduced to 188 for 6. The danger men were all in the pavillion. Then Indian just made sure SAf were in the hut and just deflated SAf chances. McClaren did play well, if only one of the SAf batsmen had stayed long enough on the crease.

West Indies were next.

West Indies started well. Gayle obviously like T20s, started well, but then got out as he was looking to build on. West Indies look half baked if Gayle doesn't fires. So it was wickets, run wickets, wickets, run wickets and Runs. Charles played well, but once spinners came of, he played to many shots instead of holding on. Darren Bravo was almost on his way to score an infamous 36 not out, but his misery too ended soon. Jadeja just ran through the middle order taking fie wickets, with subtle changes of turn and bounce and spin and West Indies batsman had little clue. Jadeja has come a long way, in the last T20 world cup in West Indies he was nowhere as good as a bowler, and to come from there and win the golden ball is something.

Sammy however restored faith in tottering innings I think Sammy should be batting three down and should shoulder the responsibility of building an innings from 25 to 40 over. He scored last 50 of West Indies runs on his own. He caned Ishant Sharma, epitome of Indian bowlers inabilit to bowl at the death. A very interesting chased one would have though, Indian reply was one worth looking forward too.

Talented Mr Sharma and Messrs Dhawan started the Indian chase. Sharma with some daft touches, square drives and pulls, started to make West Indies attack very very ordinary Sharma is an innovative modern day player, but he is at his innovative best when it comes to getting out. He managed to get a tickle on the inside edge flicking the bal leg side,one of the more embarrassing ways to get out if there is one. Nanine claimed both the wickets that feel meanwhile rampaging Dhawan kept building on and scored is second ton of the series. Karthick meanwhile helped himself to a half century as West Indies dropped catches and chance of posing a challenge to Indian reply. The Juggernaut had just started to roll.

A farce called Pakistan cricket team.

Pakistan are the most dangerous when they are down and out. They have been down and out for quiet some time. Yes there are these occasional flashes of bizarre freakness but thats about it. Pakistan seem to have a very ordinary team, wickets fall like nine pins. If you bat first and score a decent score of 240 to 260 you pretty much in drivers seat. But Indian were ticking all the boxes on paper, Pakistan seemed unable to put up a decent team on the paper. They limped to an embarrassing 165 in nearly 40 overs. It was such an eyesore of an innings. It wasn't a Pakistan we knew; it was such a shame that there was such a hype for this match and when it ended there wasn't even a whimper about it. Pakistan have to go back and search for wood to find a decent drawing board before thinking of going back to the drawing board. Indian had a cake walk over Pakistan, didn't even look like a worthy of a practice game of clubs,which one feels are more competitive. Pakistan were out bowled and blown in the field. Kohlis run-out of Junaid just stood for the metaphor of the match and Indian's Dominance.

Rain didn't exactly help matters, but that doesn't rob way the fact that Pak played like a true minnow.

Another walk in the park, OK jog.

Lankans came off from a tough match where they beat England chasing down 293, which at one stage looked more than enough score to defend. But against Lankans, Indians won a crucial toss and invited Lankans to bat. Indian bowlers made the most of the bowling conditions and ball swirled and swung on the string. Reduced to 41 for 3 and Dilshan injured. Jayawardene and Matthews tried building a partnership. Jadeja once again put his hat in the ring by having Jayawardene bowled.

Mahela is a big fish, he plays with a silken touch and perhaps one of the better batsman who can play spin bowling. It was a big wicket. Other fell trying to up the ante and Indian restricted Lank an score to 181. A jog in the park was ensured.

Talented Mr Sharma and Dhawan opened the innings, Sharma fell as expected when least expected should have looked to finish the match with a quiet 60 but went for glory and tried an ugly hoick only to get bowled top of off stumped. Embarrassing way to get out. Kohli started cautiously and just build on it. Dhawan was doing the hitting and kept going, before he was smartly stumped. India were in cruise control before more dibble and dabbles, whip and slashes and we were into the finals.

Finals England.

The match was on 23 Sunday, anyone remotely a cricket fan saw the entire Indian campaign at least 5 to 6 times as rains tried it best to get a wash out and England India to be joint winners. The match was 5 minutes away from wash out but rains retreated and a 100 over match was reduced to 20 over a side match.

Indians started cautiously. The rain started and stopped at times Indian batsman were hitting it to covers and stealing singes, at times they were running to the pavilion as the covers came on. 66 for 5 and in deep soup, Sharma bowled again. Dhoni and Raina scored a single between them, Karthick fell to a swipe, Dhawan did his bit but Kohli and Jadeja added quick runs to just push the Indian score at more than run a ball. Just enough cosnidering the condtions and England had to do the chasing.

English had the match to loose. Yadav started the rot, got one to bounce more and Ashwin caught Cook at first slip. Trott was looking comfortable against pace but Indian spinners had sorted out how to bowl on English conditions. Ashwin, was looking to make it rip. He went round the wicket straight away. Trott having dabble previous over to spin , looked very cautious. Went down the wicket, Dhoni stumped him in a flash, Root, holed out on sweep and England were looking very very insipid.

Bell got stumped which was clearly not out and may have just turned the match or nearly turned it in Indians favor Bopara, living under a sword did his bit with eh ball, claiming three wickets earlier, started to build with danger man Morgan. Ishant was back to his merry ways, of gifting one boundary ball per over. Morgan and Bopara looked dangerous Ishant got clubbed for a six and then bowled two wides, Indians looked in a precarious position and need a stroke of luck or a mistimed stroke from the batsman. Morgan has such a good eye, was lulled into a weird stroke lobbed an easy catch at mid wicket, Indian came back next ball, Bopara smashed a pull and Ashwin caught one and India merely had to hold on to the 20 over and victory was there for the taking.

Butler got bowled from a beauty from Jadeja and Indians had their hands on the trophy. One more wicket, courtesy a run-out and fat lady was clearing her throat.

Ashwin had 14 to defend in the last over, with such conditions loaded in favor of Ashwin, he bowled a cool last over even after being stuck for a boundary.

India deserving winners.

Blog: Just, May be.

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Fri, 31 May 2013 23:50:00 +0530

May be. May is shortest month of the calendar if letters are to be considered and longest month if days are to be considered. Thank God that Gregorian calendar allows only 31 days. It seems summer was running fine around the month started. But it just seems a long weary winding month. The day end if fast approaching, in the company of the dear weekend, along with month end. It’s a new day and new month around the turn of minutes as the sand trickles down the hour glass.

It has been such a weary, tiring and log fortnight or so. They physical weariness tends subsides soon or at least likely to subside soon, the mental, emotional weariness likely to linger on for longer. Not sure if it vanish completely. Tires you out.

It a bitter or a sour thought to imagine a scenario where you are reluctant and reclusive although you could be handling your job, commuting places, doing your duties or simply resting in your dwelling pondering for your existence and daily dues of what nots, what ifs and could have beens.

Is the mind capable of resetting itself, or there is a way to reset. May be in some part of the body there is the reset button to defrag our minds so to speak. It's wishful at best. I don’t know how easy it is to learn and know things around you, but I think it’s an Endeavour if not an adventure of a life time to know ourselves our motives etc or at least make an attempt to do so.

At times the routine of daily life just doesn’t seem to even breathe at the heart desired rate. Our thought, minds, bodies, actions and conscious all ought to be agile but seem to be turning fragile.I think too much time is spent on standing in the queue to be type caste, to little imagination to walk to on an unbeaten path, take a road less traveled if or leave a trail behind for someone to explore the possibilities ahead.

The mind wonder often lonely. Its always the right time to get the act together, let the mind, body, thoughts actions and soul try a road trip together.

About: Internet a photo album

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:08:00 +0530

Internet among other things is a big huge photo album, tumblr, blogs. Intagram, twitter, tumblr, facebook all of them are these huge photo albums that you can just click for next on snap or follow some link for another series of snaps and these never run out. The roll Camera a novelty if not a status symbols once has now given ubiquitous mobile phone and digital cameras. Yes there is a debate over having a specialist camera against a phone camera. The fact is phone camera given very decent out put in terms of quality of image. The camera in the phone is in sync step with the improvement in quality of the camera and quality of the snap. It simply amazing how the two phones and camera end up in a single piece of equipment. The network connectivity with Internet just opened the infinite items in Pandora's box to realms beyond imagination.

Yes computer too has had its impact too. That is as obvious as; obvious will ever get. It's not about just snaps from the professional photographers, some people just seem to get it right. It more than just snaps though, add meme and humour to it and some are just the daily dose of humour your simple can't have enough of those. It is digitization I know. But some of the things are just so thrilling, so cool, so, inspiring, so times just leaves you short of words.

I know camera are now one of the easiest things to use. Just aim and click. Snap of fingers and snap is on display. Often the image seems more picturesque than the object itself. It took me hard time to buy a camera phone. I had used a Nokia N95 for sometime it was fabulous. Then I had some more phones. I wanted to buy a camera phone with flash again. Yes I was fussy about the flash, I just something I wanted in the camera phone. Incredulous? Yes I know. Its just one of those (many) things.

The camera are know so easy to use, like I said. Its just aim and click. There should be however one should read about nuances off photography. National geographic website is a great tool. The tips there, are simple and basic. If these minor steps are followed then the photography skills increases multiple folds. It may be about the camera angle or may be how to stand while taking shot, or always having the camera

Cricket: Dhoni achieves the brown wash

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 19:57:00 +0530

So, how many pundits, fans, expert, seers saw Dhoni leading his team beating Aus 4-0, especially after we didn't win a session against England in England (and lost a player to injury every match), Aus in Aus, lost the series in England. Dhoni led the team. A team which didn't have Sehwag, Gambhir, Dravid, Laxman, Zak, half baked Bhajji and a reclusive if not redundant Tendulkar. Dhoni and young men and his demolition of impossibilities, T20 World cup, World Cup, ODI wins in Aus, 4-0 brown wash of Aus is one for the history. Dhoni has got to be beyond simple lucky Captain. He seem to have a trick up his sleeve even if things are against odds.

Dhoni with bat, gloves and his decisions on the field and trivially, the selection of players - Kumar, Jadeja, Pujara, Murali, Ahswin, Dhawan and a de-selection of the other whole lot. He is on the money with his decisions. Another point which may not be highlighted would be Tendulkar now where close to the highest scorer on the either side. I dont know how far is his retirement. I hope he does it, sooner rather than later. India meanwhie have quickly found their reciepe for success at home, hopefully the young guns will keep performing. There are many things that are swept under the magic victory, but more on that later.

Aussies never came for the tour.

The result would have been different if Aussies had there senses more grounded. Warner led the Aussie batsmen in misery. A few players were playing for the selection of the Ashes. Starc and Clarke gt injured. A few people forgot to make their PPTs. I know in hindsight all looks sorted out. There would lots of short coming and worthy criticisms when you are BrownWashed and have lost the series 4-0. Warner led the charge of batsmen's misery, he hardly got the foot right. Phil Hughes would have felt what Mark waughs and Ricky Pontings felt touring India when they saved more runs on the filed and take more catches each inning rather than score runs. It seems 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 are specialist positions for batsmen of touring parties to India. While the opener must adapt, he should also set the course. The number three must ensure there is no cat amaong pigeons and should either keep up the momentum if he comes after a long partnership or charter the ship if he comes to early. Number five batmen must be a capable run maker and a busy player. The Number 7s and 9s will always make runs because of inherent gene to dismiss the tail is absent in Indian bowlers. Here odd must chase the evens so to speak.

Clarke cant.

Clarke escaped some streaky chances while scoring his century in India, he has a dozen already! But from than on, he was a driver of a dash car who found himslef dashed whatever he did. Often he ended up dashing himself. One felt the agility while implementing plans was not their, some selections were improper, some bet looked good while taking them on but fizzled out. Dhoni would have felt the same way in Aus not to long ago. However the scoreline doesnt truly reflect the how the Aus team played. They were very ordinary to say the least, very timid, almost like Poms of old. When Clarke was scoring double hundred by the innings, and he would have been told Jadeja, would claim five time in six innings, he would amused to bit and scored another double. it seems game of cricket is game changing roulette, favour people who willing to stick around.

The fourth test and complete Brown Wash.

Ausssies come in this test with a new captain, won the toss, batted first. The fortunes (outcome) unchanged. Indian spinners set the tone. Ashwin & Jadeja spin twins, third was Ojha who did his bit. Aussies slumped before Siddle used the long handle and bought a semblance of respectability to the score. Aussies compiled 262 on a pitch in which accumulation of runs was increasingly going to get difficult as the game progressed. They said it was a fourth day pitch. Jadeja providing crucial break through keeping things tight. Siddle scored first of his two half centuries in the match, preferring too stick to basics, rather than gauge the situation of the match, look at the bowling and take stock of situation. He came he saw and he clobbered. It was some proper cricketing shots, well timed one at those. It would have been entertaining for top order. Aus folded for 260 odd on a weary pitch, India had to have big runs.

Indians started well with Pujara the third opener of the series along with Vijay put on an opening partnerships and then rest of the team faltered. Indians are too casuals playing offies. The new line for offies will be round the wicket bowling into the stumps and straightening. It strangles run making and boundary hitting, something Indian seem to do very easily for an off spinner turning it into them. however Aussies didnt exploit the reversing ball to great effect as Indians invariably found a way around to score runs and build partnerships. However in this match they couldnt. Lyon was very good, taking wickets on will so to speak. Tendulkar being the bunny... for this match. Indians casually came and went and Lyon proved his worth in the place. Indians preffered to camp on the crease rather than offer something for Lyon to think about. A slender 10 run lead and the game was in the balance.

Aussies started in bravado but Jadeja turned it on literally.He claimed Maxwell and Warner in quick successions. He utilized the pitch to maximum, the natural variations combined with the wavering pitch to either produce a magic delivery or a wicket taking one. Jadeja looked ominous as other bowlers chipped around claiming wickets regularly and Aus shot out cheaply for the last time in the series. jadeja claimed five wickets and a few send offs. Siddle sizzled with second half century of the game, a first in the history of the game for number Nine.

Murali should be shown this dismissal just to embarass him when he starts believing too much. Why play a reverse sweep on a crumbling inefiled to an off spinner when shot making comes naturally to you? Why? Kohli is the second one, Lyon got in rhythm and he looked less secured. A couple of wickets and Lyons had almost set the pigeons among the cat. Pujara meanwhile was definitely in the zone and carried on while other held fort. A very good innings considering Indias traditionally not so good batting performances. Ref: Barbados 120. Dhoni and Pujara combined to seal the door on Aus faces not before paiting them Brown.

Aus in India or India in Aus who was the worst? I mean is it wrong for the a cricket fan to ask for a more equal playing field? At least ICC should allow to have a player exchange formula so that between baords more players can get an experience of playing in local match abroad I think it will help. Indian batsmen and bowlers will help immensely. Why doesn't BCCI used it muscle power to get our Players a deal in County cricket or in first class cricket in SAf and Aus or NZ or whatever? I often wonder. If players get a chance to play in alien conditions the game of cricket will be better. There is a scope of allowing exchange of players for a few season for first class level.

However everything said and done, the Ashes will see a different Aus team. Indians have their work cut out once the tour of SAf starts later this year. SAf is the team to beat, not sure we have the bowling, batting or fitness for the tour.

An Aussie Brown-Wash is a rare feat, time to savour Dhoni & Co. Well done guys, thanks for the thrill.

Cricket: Two up in Hyderabad

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 6 Mar 2013 19:45:00 +0530

India in Aus had no clue, went on to lose the series 4-0. Aus are touring and perhaps facing the similar kind of result. Indian teams performances lie somewhere between, the ebb from the massive loses in Australia (and England) tour and stupendous highs from the wins in this series. Dhoni had drawn lot of flak for string of poor performances. Captains form reflected and amplified his team’s (poor) performances. But that stupendous double by Dhoni in Madras and commendable team performances in Hyderabad would have made his detractors mumble under there breath. We as fans are assured considering his performances and carry his team along, that Dhoni know much more about things and how to deal with them. Dhoni has done well, he delivers, get more choices in the team. Jadeja’s selection along with Murali Vijay would have raised a few eyebrows before the test began. Indian now has an unsalable lead with their hands on Border Gavaskar trophy. The geniuses who were critical of Dhoni as a captain and keeper have moved on to graze on greener pastures.

What can Clarke do?

There are many things Clarke can do which he hasn’t done till yet in the series.

Not win the toss (some how)

Consider to bowl first if and when you do win the toss

Look to bat once and only once in the test.

Bat yourself in top four, if not in top three? Perhaps open? Watson, Warner and Clarke have to click, TOGETHER.

Identify the top spinner in the squad. Play him in for the rest of the series.

My Aus XI (in Batting Order) – Watson, Warner, Henriques, Clarke, Cowan, Hughes,Wade, Pattinson, Doherty, Lyon, Johnson.

All those wondering about where Aus will go from here… especially the Ashes, don’t worry, English condition are not alien to Aus players. England have the core of players have a good core But SAf beat them at home. You got to play your hand with the cards you got. Clarke forgot conventional rules of how the game is/was played not necessarily apply in India. I think Clarke ability (read agility) as a Captain seemed to have been exposed. You can't have Haydens, Gilchrist, Martyns, Waughs, Warnes, McGraths with you all the times. They are once in a generation cricketers. Aussies want the present players to impose themselves. Warner and Watson have to perform. Batting and Bowling has to click.

Dhoni has his (sleeves and) pockets full.

I am not sure we have a better man to lead Indian cricket team on the field as off now. Dhoni is the best thing to have happened to Indian cricket in last few years. He performs or perishes, get his own team, set his own standards and excels them in process. Often what people see as achievements he sees them as milestones and simply moves on like someone driving on highway on a clear day. There would be lot of noises on inclusion of Viijay and Jadeja,ut we must now applaud Dhoni's decision. Jadeja and Murali both had important contribution. Sehwag has Bhajji for company to plot their futures as to what they want to do next.

Pujara, Murali and Ashwin Relay-Marathons.

Clarke won the toss, which was high point of the day and before the first session, Aus seemed to be focusing on what was written on a nonexistent wall. Four wickets down, in first session. An Aus fight back in the second session and Indian rope trick, that saw Aussies declaring after five wickets fall in the last session. The declaration seems foolish one but if they would have taken couple of wicket than it may have been looked brave indeed. But wasn't to be. Pujara and Murali Vijay both under various bars of pressure, came to gather, to hold the Aussie bowling charge at bay in the first session and then blossomed for the rest of the day. They scored a combined of 294 runs in the day. The helpless Aus bowlers struggling to even create chances on their own. Pujara has the great skill of building big scores based on temperament and poise. In many ways Pujara reminds me of Michael Vaughan. He fought a hamstring to get to his hundred and pave the way for massive first innings score for India. Sehwag contemplating what would have been.

It was more restrained and stoic innings for Murali. He was subdued and played well within himself, giving up panache' to get a very well compiled and almost a stoic century. I hope this gives him some satisfaction to pursue innings different from his natural style. He should look to collect more runs in the series. Vijay looked more at ease as the innings went on and complemented Pujara, stroke for stroke. But also looked happy to play second fiddle to Pujara for extended times of better part of the day. Pujara went on to get a very good double, a second double for the Indian team in two matches. Vijay kept going forward. His dismissal triggered a collapse of sorts as Indian tried to bat Aus out of the game. Dhoni smashed a few although Virat and Tendulkar should have done that. Indian got out for 500 plus and A crumbling pitch waited for Aus to surrender.

Ashwin. He was nearly the man of the match in the Chennai test where Dhoni just too the game away from Aus. 12 wickets in the first game, six in the second. 18 wickets in four innings, three five wickets haul. The flight and loop is back. There is visibly less reliance on variation and more on control . The wickets are there the taking, hopefully Bhajji has got his cue. Ashwin well supported by Jdeja through the series. Ashwin averaging less than 17 and Jadeja at 19. the virtues of spinning a ball on driving length along with natural variations bringing rich hauls to the lesser spinners.

The road ahead with is clear, claim the third test and hopefully and faster pitch on the fourth test for the more even contest.

Cricket: India relieved with win

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 20:51:00 +0530

Indians win the opening test of this test series against Aus. It is much to the relief of many fans, may be some of the players and good wishers of Indian cricket. Indians seem to have most check boxes ticked (almost?). There are always some check boxes which seem not so important, another blog for these kinda check boxes on some other day. Hint Opening batting, opening bowling. However, Ashwin 12 for in the match Dhoni's brilliant 224, Virat 106, he should have not spoil it by throwing it away. Tendulkar was sure and confident of his foot work. I am wondering what Murali Vijay and Ishant Sharma may be feeling, they hardly contributed towards anything. Ishant bowled couple of spells in the match, Vijay came out to bat couple of times. Sehwag form a major worry for now. India won.

Good toss to lose?

Wonder if Dhoni was lucky in many to have lost the toss? Bat first is the theme for most visiting teams, cause no one wants to chase on a crumbling pitch with the spinner making the ball turn and shoot, and spit venom like cobra, or the pitch bursting and exploding without a caution. Dhoni got lucky perhaps? What it doesn't do is to lend credit to theory but it does give lot of clues. Clarke perhaps came with a mindset not wanting to bat last on a raging turner (if at all), but it's in hindsight you always find more possibilities.

Aussies started well while batting first with Warner and Cowan laying a good foundation. A group of wickets and Phil hughes and openers fell in quick succession. Not sure is Phil Hughes will get more games. Watson started purposefully but than trapped leg before by Ashwin's faster delivery. Warner's wicket pushed Aus deeper into misery but than man if for the Aus captain guided the Aus team to a very good total. Moises Henriques batted well and game a good company, singles and boundaries started to come b more easily. Bhajji at least offered one delivery shot and wide or wayward delivery in each of his generous overs. Aus tailed wagged and the lower half contributed 230 runs for the last five wickets, most contributions from Clarke himself. Indian spinners took all the ten Aussie wickets.

Clarke is one batsman apart from Amla who could readily sleep walk on to the pitch and get a century if not more without breaking sweat. Clarke a man in prime form, posses daft touches and quick feet to alter the length of the bowler and play horizontal shots either side of the wicket or race down the wicket and hit the spinner in the air and over the top. A very formidable batsman in the prevailing conditions even against the Indian spinners. There is more expected out of Warner and Watson, simply because they are more accustomed to Indian conditions (IPL!). We are assured though in the next match a better prepared and better prepared Aus team will be seen competing. Dhoni's climb just got steeper.

India assured is reply.

12 for 2 and this innings had all the ingredients to see another of those famous collapse like the one in the previous series against England. Sehwag forms so poor that he is finding new ways of getting out. Murali Vijay didn't have much to sing and dance about, cleaned up by Pattinson before he could get into position. Sehwag tried to survive but his misery didn't last long, got out in a weird and funny manner, the ball lobbed back to hit the bail. Tendulkar's first stroke was that of assurance which all of India sought for better part of last season, a pitch up delivery timed to perfection and the ball went screeching towards the boundary, two more boundaries in next three deliveries and Tendulkar was back. Pujara and Sachin steadied the ship and chartered the course towards this chase. Pujara who seem to have good temperament and technique for test matches should look to build on a rare slip of concentration from him and he missed an incoming delivery. Pattinson was a raging bull. Virat Kohli, who seemed quiet for most of the English series also build up on the platform provided by Pujara-Tendulkar partnership, further flayed the Aussie attack and India saw end of second day with just 3 wickets down. Tendulkar and Kohli looking good on the crease both making fifties. In the backdrop of previous series a follow-on avoided seemed quiet an achievement.

Calm and the storm.

A nervy and intriguing first session on the third day. Lyon broke through Tendulkar, who was incited into a full ball spinning off break. A classic off spinners dismissal. Tendulkar beaten by spin and dip of the delivery. The calm went and the storm stepped in . Its not often that an Indian batsmen gets an applause that matches Tendulkar's reception but the Indian captain is in that league. Indian captain looked resolved and up for the challenge. Dhoni straightway started counter attacking. Aus bowlers bemused and besmirched but not up to the challenge, Kohli and Dhoni got a partnership going and Aus seem to loosing the grip on the match. A fifty run partnership in ten following overs. They got a solid partnership that got the score closer to Aus first innings. India felt out of the jail. Kohli got a very good century.

Kohli got out to weird kind a shot, it wasn't required as well. Dhoni has better capabilities to flay the ball and counter attack. Kohli hit an "over smart" stroke and holed out to mid on, Lyon again inciting an unwarranted stroke. This shot cost him a big chunky hundred, may be a double century for the taking. Kohli should have tried that stroke after crossing a score of two hundred. It would have been more productive. Kohli needs to score big chunky hundreds when he gets opportunity. Test match hundreds and victories are hard work and rare, why leave it away to someone else when the game is in balance?

Talking of balance, Dhoni has the swagger and the will. He may not be the most pleasing, perfect batsman to watch, but thats not the story. I really don't know how many people have hit a double century in two and half session with in a day. Dhoni has. He went on from strength to strength the longer he stayed at the crease the harder he hit them over the boundary, the harder it was for the bowlers to get him. He kept smashing them all afternoon. The bowlers were just smashed out of the attack, more than one bowler was taken out of the attack more than once, Henriques, Lyon, Starc. He should obviously bat at number six. Dhoni's method to his madness lies in his resolve , purpose and guts. It was a a huge turn around.

I think I can dare say that Dhoni's innings was right up their with Laxman-Dravid partnership on the fourth day of THAT Eden Gardens test. He batted well with Kohli ad then did well to shepherded the tail, Ashwin and Bhajji should have done more, along with Kohli off course. Bhuvnesh on debut was his best partner. Bhuvnesh's task was simple, get on the strike for fourth and fifth ball and defend. If he was in strike than may be hold the fort or get a single. He did well. Bhuvnesh scored 21 runs in partnership with of 140 with Dhoni, as the lead swelled at nearly 5 an over. Well done Bhuvnesh.

Aus fight it to out the end.

Aussies had read the script. It was spin all the way. Batsman came and went and batsman were bluffed with the pitch and guile of the spin. Indian spinners claimed two wickets in the match. The one with most test wickets claimed just three in the entire test match though he supported Ashwin, well. Bhajji should read what Rahul Dravid has written for him on Cricinfo for him to find his mojo, right now its lost somewhere. The guile, the intrigue, the bite of the wicket, the hunger all seem missing from Bhajji's bowling. Ashwin came back from an indifferent English series. But stands right next to Dhoni with his 12 wickets in the match. Jadeja provided the break through when required. It was up to Henriques to put on some fight. He deserves a promotion as the best Aus batsman prepared to grind it out on a powdery pitch to lead the fight.

India had 50 runs to chase, Murali Vijay tonked a six, got out, Sehwag got out prodding, another new way of dismissal for him. The best part of the second innings was Tendulkar smashing two sixes of the first two balls he faced, Pujara completed the formality of claiming the winning run courtesy a bye and India completed a test victory much to relief for us Indian cricket fans.

The following part is the preview of the series post I couldnt post on time. :(

Like for like; this Aus vs India series makes an intriguing contest. It may not be the strongest Aus team to India, but then its not been the strongest India team to host Aus at home either. Indians in the previous series just imploded against England, after winning the first test. We prevailed against NZ and West Indies in previous season simply because we were playing at home and factors were in our favour. England just clobbered us. Aussies would want to do the same. Can Aussies attack and will Indians provided a challenge are some of the questions to be answered as both teams are in Transition and would look to build up from this series?

Aussies and their challenges.

Hussey more than Ponting would be missed very dearly. Both gentlemen have retired now. The batting onus is on cruise-to-double-century-in-a-day the inform Aussie captain Michael Clarke, Watson, Warner. Warner is a refined Sehwag for better or for worst. Watson, remains the key. Watson, Warner, if fit and Clarke should occupy first three of the four slots, but Aussie batting lean on Indian pitches... Aus new/old ball bowlers are a key. An indifferent bounce and reverse sewing is the name of the bowling aspect in the sub continent. Aussies do have their pace battery in place, Siddle, Starc, Pattinson, Johnson and other, it will be interesting which and how many spinners will be playing in the Aussie XI. Aussies looked more settled in the bowling department, this is not to suggest they are lean on batting. Aussies are much in flux and yet to form a team, though the core is in place. As we know by now opening the batting is no big deal in India, I am curious to know how many Aussies batsmen are queuing up to bat in India. Indian bowlers are pretty ordinary on current form and fitness. I think the focus should be on the bowlers, how there perform in tis series. Indian batsman have different challenges though.

Indian resistance and defense.

A good set of bowlers will win you more matches. If you look at the teams of the recent pasts you will see that great teams had some terrific bowlers, West Indies, Aussies for better part of last three decades. Safs seem to have bowlers bowling in terrific combination. One of the reason why Pak is formidable in conditions is the bowlers that they have. In India its different. The bowlers in India are hard to find and harder to remembers From out of no where the bowlers look pedestrian and out of nowhere they pick couple of wickets but they get back to being pedestrian too soon. India has produce some stellar batsmen, who have scored heavily at home and also delivered in alien conditions in last decade and a half. Indian bowling struggles at home and away. Often what goes under the radar, is bowlers performance when touring abroad and results are unfavourable. I am not sure if its to do with the lack of fitness or lack of ability of some other issue with our bowlers. India has won matches abroad when bowlers have contributed if not bettered the performances by out batsman. India needs bowlers, able to get back us in the game when all looks lost. For know Solomons Keys need to be searched to find four good seamer and three good spinners, who induce a mistakes and claim wickets and at times bowl a hostile spell and claim victories. It is a far fetched team considering there are more bowlers on recuperating rooster than the playing one.

I am not sure if its Tendulkar's last season/series. He has done everything a batsman could do. He carried the dreams of an entire generation. He should consider retiring at the end of the series not before flaying Aussies like he has done when they have toured earlier. Pujara looks good for now. Kohli seems just off the boil, Raina and Yuvraj unsure. I was surprise to know Zak wasn't playing, injury of a break, I don't know. I hoped he would play a big series He has couple of left handers, whom Zaks loves to bowl.

If the present Australian team is the weakest to tour India, then present Indian team is the weakest to host Australia. There are too many check boxes to fill, Dhoni's captaincy and batting prowess, Sehwag form, Tendulkar's career, middle order partnership of Pujara-Kohli-He-whoever other.

Although thin on experience, this Aus-India series will be interesting to see specially if India wins. :P

Blog: Wander to the coast

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 22:05:00 +0530

As the work week comes to close and weekend approaches closer, time to let the mind wander away. It is time to ponder about different things. It's unrestricted and letting go of thought process beyond those than that of the daily job, weekly planning and monthly salary. At times its just about stepping back or stepping away to see what is the work like beyond artificial office light, worries that seem larger than number of mails in the inbox pile up. Unclog.

Ganpatipule 1


Ganpatipule 2

I often think what would a picture of our thought process and mind may look like if we are able to defrag it. I will be really curious to see the comparison of before and after defrag. If you have, like me lived in a place/house/vicinity in your teen years and continued the same school, before finding yourself in college, wondering what you were doing in school. It those memories of the house you lived in , grounds you played, trees you climbed, of the lakes that you swam and school that you attend which becomes a template of comparison or a reference point of sorts or a touchstone against which you compare the rest of life and just see to see how and to what extent your life has changed perhaps for the better. As a city dweller, it is amazing to know that some people live most of there lives where horizon doesn't change much. It is impalpable for someone like me. The lost track to the beach offer something which was went to be free but now it is a super premium, open spaces, expanse of the horizon to beyond time, the free flowing breeze, the sounds of waves racing to the shore, the winds howling from the waves, to the shore to the trees and landscape around, the sea shells doting the landscape. The bliss of it all, pretty much priceless if your pinch yourself.


On way to to Ganpatipule

Also much soothing is to find a childhood hideaway similar to one we had when we were growing up. I grew up besides a sea shore in a bustling island city of Mumbai. I love the sea and the feel of breeze on my face. I often willing let my mind wonder to that kind of imaginary scene where, waves approach the coast, the wind flows unbound and free, where there is a change of colours and scene every minute and yet has a familiar resemblance even if the scene changes every moment. The morning and evening hues or the sun, the deep blue reflection of the sky, the joy of waves running up and down the coast. The buzz of the shore as tides take turns to change.

Murud Janjeera

The sea by the moonlight is equally fascinating and enchanting, as the moon rises, the colours and contrast changes, they stars seem that bit more bright. The smell of the rising tidy and the dance of the stars enough to keep the attention of your gaze as hours pass by. You wouldnt even want to miss anything. The stars travel across the horizon from dusk to dawn.

Radha Nagar Beach - Havelock, Andamans

I at times wish If I could on a weekday, wind up everything before lunch, drive down to a sea shore and be there way before sun set. The ubiquitous camera-phone or a camera with enough MBs of free memory and charged battery.I hope to be there just in time see the world recede and the tide rise, the sun set and the clouds float by, the moon bring the cooler evening along with the stars as the waves change their outfits from, blue to orange to golden to gray and later reflecting the soothing moonlight and spiced up by shimmer from the stars. I dream about sleeping on the beach under the stars by a bon fire and at a safe distance away from the peaking waves so that hopefully wont wake up in neck deep water.

Sunset Murud to Alibaug

I also had a good fortune to be in some of the sea shores, besides the few in Mumbai. The evening at marine drive has always been a favourite place just to be there and let the evening come along. The other places have been Ganpatipule, Goa, Murud-Alibaug all of those taking me back and forth between the child hood hideaway and future of having a home not far away from a sea shore. The snaps are in random order taken from Murud- Kashid- Alibaug, Andamans, Ganpatipule.

Ross Island - Andamans

Shimmering afternoon Ganpatipule

Me peering towards no where

Dusk Ganpatipule

About: Benjamin Franklin an inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Sat, 19 Jan 2013 00:27:00 +0530

Benjamin Franklin a modern day visionary, revolutionary, statesman, diplomat, polymath, scientist, satirist, quote machine, free mason and what not. There are many who believe today, he almost predates present day bloggers.There are things he did that are still in fashion today, bi-focal lenses for example or the postal system he developed in USA is pretty much his brainchild. USA, today is perhaps embodiment of what, I think Benjamin Franklin would have been. But like a true hero he was an inspiration to many, yes there would have been a few instances where he would have said something that is not savory in today's times.However, I would like to see the positives and chose his positive impetus on philosophies and other things that he did and practiced and left back. he has made some useful contributions to all kinds of sciences, including social sciences. His some of the contributions includes fields of, statistics, oceanography, wave theory of light, lightning conductor, effect of temperature on conductivity, meteorology. That was all the things geeky and nerdy in his era. I mean he was a dictionary and appendix in a technical book both rolled into one. He was huge figure seemingly a widely respected one at that I would like to imagine...

His life is not only the example of his industrious genius, but also his immense talent to work hard and go through the grind so to speak. It is fascinating how he could do it all. All in a days of work. I guess he never had a bad day in office, cause he could do seemingly multiple things at once, with a grace of a virtuoso. i wonder if he was this creative genius who planned to do different things at different points in time,and did it with all sincerity.

Some random quotes from Benjamin Franklin

If Men are so wicked as we now see them with Religion what would they be if without it?

There never was a good war or a bad peace.

In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.

Those who would give up Essential Liberty to purchase a little Temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.

Mankind naturally and generally love to be flatter'd

Freedom of Speech is ever the Symptom, as well as the Effect of a good Government

Be civil to all; sociable to many; familiar with few; friend to one; enemy to none.

Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain - and most fools do.
But Benjamin Franklin is in inspiration to me as a Polymath. His pursue of his talents and creative and constructive utilization of these talents make him an inspiration for me. Many of popular quotes we use today as result of his humor and satire. He was an active publisher of his time and his Poor Richards Almanack gave him success as author. I like many think he will best be remembered for drafting American Declaration of Independence. His work as a statesman and diplomat helped winning over the French and further the cause of American Independence. his writing and life perhaps laid the way of American Dream or the American way of free enterprise their community and many of his writing laid foundation of how America developed as community and country. His personal belief provide many interesting insight of his genius. I think any disciple of management or who pursues management must have a look at Benjamin Frankling and read his works. He is a was epoch a colossal in many ways. I am not sure though he is credited to an extent in which he has directly or indirectly shaped the world as we see it today

It was his birthday on 17 January. I think I will continue to draw inspiration from the virtues of his actions and intelligence. I think I will start reading his autobiography soon.

I would like to end this post list of thirteen virtues of Benjamin Franklin, please read carefully -

"Temperance. Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation."
"Silence. Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation."
"Order. Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time."
"Resolution. Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve."
"Frugality. Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing."
"Industry. Lose no time; be always employ'd in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions."
"Sincerity. Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly."
"Justice. Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty."
"Moderation. Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve."
"Cleanliness. Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloaths, or habitation."
"Tranquility. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable."
"Chastity. Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another's peace or reputation."
"Humility. Imitate Jesus and Socrates."

Cricket: Turn around in Kochi

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 21:47:00 +0530

A match that played out like a perfect script. Indian top order struggle, Yuvraj plays a cameo, Raina-Kohli build, Dhoni-Raina combine to raise the platform, Dhoni then takes the charge and Jadeja rides the luck and takes the score to a formidable total. Then the rookie bowlers strike, England crumble, a few partnerships and then a signature of old yore of England and India march home with an emphatic victory.

Forget other things,take One Day at a time.

India seems to be struggling at the top. Rahane seems to be chosen for the long haul, but right now he looks like he has booked a camping trip with Rohit Sharma. Rahane needs to score runs in the bulk. It is the way it is. A few low rung scores will do him more harm than ever. As we know Rohit Sharma is talented but than Manoj Tiwary's quantum of bad luck is Rohit Sharma quantum of talent. Poor chaps Tiwary, doesn't seem to fit in the game. Gautam Gambhir Sir Ga-Ga has done everything to get dropped, lady luck is also frowning upon him but management and selectors want to make sure then don't drop him just for extended poor run with the bat. He is walking wicket and run making is not on his current to do lists. Ishant Sharma could well give him company. Lambu and Sir Ga Ga are a perfect foil each other. You could blindfold them both, ask Ishant to bowl and Sir Ga Ga to bat and bowl against each other all day, at the end of the day, Ishant may still not claim his wicket and sir Ga Ga may still raise his hand and asked to be dropped from at least, this exercise. Both seem to have lost it for the time being. I hope these guys strike gold sooner rather than later. India slams in excess of 280.

IPL is almost on the horizon, they will surely find form then long wit all the others, Sharmas, Pathans, Patels, etc.

Raina gets on with his game.

Raina may be a picture imperfect, but he makes runs when there is a need. It sets him apart from Kohli's and Rahane and others. Yuvraj can turn the game in matter of overs, but he still to get on to his full rage. There are glimpses though, especially some of the knocks in T20 against Pakistan I know he got unlucky in Kochi or else he alone would have taken us in excess of 300. But now for Raina. At juncture he finds himself is a precarious one, but over a period he has shown he can deliver. He has scored almost 4000 runs at an average approaching 36 with a strike rate 91. He has vulnerabilities. A worth off spinners would love to bowl at Raina. He is prone to short ball as well. But when given a chance he may wobble but he delivers. He played with ODI finishing school with likes of Dhoni and Yuvraj.

India high on MSD.

MSD averages 58 as a captain thats for ODIs spread over 6 years and 130 ODIs. He is a complete ODI batsman, belligerent and gutsy. His 113 against Pakistan almost set a tone for him this season. You can expect a lot of helicopters being set free. He is simply outstanding Cook acknowledged a fact. He is just lethal at the end of the innings. Dhoni just got stuck into England bowling in the second ODI.. he may look t play a boring and subdued inning, running hard singles but his ability to change gears and just start launching sixes at will and finish the innings sets his apart. He just lead the front from the front. Jadeja, then took it one step forward and just flayed Dernbachs last over and gave India a tough total to defend.

England – start, stop; crumble.

Bell shocker drive off Shami which ended up in Dhoni's gloves perhaps set the tone for English bowling, Bhuvneshwar Kumar grabbed his chances and claimed three wickets with lot of guile. Pietersen played characteristic flash in pan innings bowled by Bhuvnesh. Eoin Morgan cam and went and so did the English chances. The England middle order mere completing the formalities of making and appearance. England woes didn't end while they where leather hunting. Jadeja bowled a spell of 7 overs for 12, claiming couple of wickets. I think the batsman who got out to Jadeja must seriously look at their games against spin. I mean Samit Patel tonks Jadeja for sixes. England loose by 127 runs. Its very inspid so to say.

The Indian team is over balances in favour of batting. It is no secret. I think this over balance will be exposed when we play big tournaments where its up to the bowlers to set the tone. A good win but lot of worries on bowling department front.

Blog: Sunset on 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 18:00:00 +0530

As the days have rushed by and year 2012 is ending,soon seconds seems to be busy packing, minutes seem to be in rush to just freak out and hours en-queue for exit as a foggy misty day here in the city awaits the last sunset of 2012 and first crack of dawn of 2013. The time seemed to be flapping its wings, then at times it just flew past us and it times seem to be on a gentle, graceful glide just happy to be floating around. As the curtain comes down on 2012, a peep over the shoulder and a gaze beyond the horizon seem the thing to do.

As the Mayan calendar fell on the face of people who build false platform on the calendar their notion falsified perhaps it is for us to look back and wonder where we were right and wrong. Its learning from the mistake that's the easier part also to learn when we have been successful. We all know success has more victims than failure. If success goes to head than rest be assured that we are too good for our own-selves. The other extreme should also be avoided. The best way out is probably to align our efforts with the aspirations of people who want to see us happy and smiling.

2012 has been ups and downs, 2013 will also have its shares of ups and downs, hopefully I will be in better frame of mind to steer through whatever comes my way. There are so many things to do. I am willing to re-learn a few old tricks. A bit more proactive to whats likely to happen. If you fail to plan than you plain to fail. Household expenses you will know have stricter eye on you. So will waist swelling food and drinks. The morning alarm be my new best friend along with my dear sleep and dreams. I hope anger is a less frequent visitor to me. I must practice smiling and laughing a bit more. I heard a story once a day without laughter is wasted one. I must learn to laugh my problems away. A bit of detour on path of spirituality may just help me find my way back. I have been trying to blog more frequently I hope things fall in place and I don't wait for things to happen to write something.

A poise and balance of mind will help me observe the chaos better and probably bit more decisive in whatever I chose to do. New year will also bring in newer responsibilities. I hope to sharpen my skills again and put more efforts and get better results.

B'bye 2012, nice having you around. I hope I have learn enough lessons going forward.

I wish everyone a best of 2013

In Hope I say, Hello 2013.

About: Life & lost causes?

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 19:26:00 +0530

We are a failing nation or we are a failed one. May be, we have failed and along with it lost our sense of right and wrong. There is simply no excuse that can be justify for physical/sexual assault on women. You can derive and decry all the reasons, excuses, possibilities and everything but it is simply unpardonable. The physical/sexual assault is against the very fundamental right to living a life. It is also against the fundamental duty and moral duty of every human to help the other to a respectable life.

The instances of news which come out and horror stories of gruesome violence in form of physical/sexual assault and unbearable pain that fuel the rage and dismay everywhere. The only apathy that exceed it, is the response from our holier than cow Gov. The nature of violence makes you question yourself and the sense of shamelessness that we simply cant get rid of. It is indeed disturbing trend. The situation now is like on in a lawless territory. All seemed to be lost and the rage someday will make this world worst than hell.

There are two aspects to all of it. One what is the deterrent we have to any kind of physical abuse, sexual assaults and other act of violence which cause any injury temporary or permanent physical or mental. We know scars of the victims mind never heal. What is the deterrent that we do have and is it strong enough so that No One can commit anything for which breaks spirit of the victim along with quashing the rule of law.

The first was deterrent. The second is a speedy trial, which will mean the sentence is spell quickly and perpetrators know there is no escape behind the cloak of law. Also is bit more humane aptitude has to be instilled. If it means reforming the police, judicial system, politics or society then so be it. In India laws have to be in sync with the times today, previous cases should provide enough data of what is happening and a good deterrent and transparent, quick and strong judicial process will perhaps set fear in rogue men/offenders of right set of Do's and Donts.

There is enough rage on twitter and lot of people suggesting many things. When rage begins to fuels mind, reason makes the first escapes. The leadership has to burden the onus. The NHRC sent notices to Commissioner of Delhi and Union Home Secretary. I thought it should have been sent to the Home Minsiter and Delhi CM Shiela Dixit. Let the top civil servants, ministers, cops be stake holders in this incident and come forward to take the blame. The Government can simply let things evolve in society on someones whims and irks. It seems our laws in practice protect the criminal from the victim.

We are amidst a grave problem of violence in form of sexual assaults on women and elderly. If the situation gets worst we will be victims and eyewitness. The trends of these assaults indicate signs of very bad times.

Cricket: Road ahead after dismay

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 21:36:00 +0530

The bitter fruits we have today were borne from a tree that took root in the past. If Indian team wants to be a competitive team in conditions domestic and alien, then time is right for a person who has conviction and vision to come forward and with determination revive Indian teams Test fortunes. England played really well. It is a team in ascendancy for sure. They have a bowling attack for various conditions and batting line ups. A batting order that's firm. A set opener in captain Cook in prime form. An aggressive and mercurial batsman in Pietersen, a work horse in Trott and Bell.. A good keeper-batsman in Prior and a tail that wags and adds more than 80 runs or more for last four wickets. Its pretty much what a test team ought to be, which India isn't on current capabilities form and fitness.

It's the swing and the spin, stupid.

You know words forming a sentence are open to interpretation e.g. “India is a graveyard of bowlers” now look at Indian bowlers. Zaheer, Ishant, Irfan, VRV Singh, RP Singh, Praveen Kumar, Balaji, Sreesanth, Munaf and many many more have burst on to the scene and disappeared when one blinked an eye. Then there are spinners, Kumble retired, Bhajji just went out of the boil, he looks docile and listless, a very sad scenario. Ashwin and Ojha are raw earning their ropes. I hope BCCI is doing some good work to unearth bowlers and restoring the not so fast bowlers to bowling ftness. The World cup 2011 indeed was victory a miracle considering not many of our bowlers find a place even in the second squad of Pak, Saf, Eng, Aus even WI. I know world cup was a different format. The point is our bowling department mere completes the team. I dont think batsman fret facing our bowlers. We have been in almost perennial dearth of a fast bowler/s, bowling at the peak of prowess, claiming wickets on all condition for more than 10 years. There are too many variables in there, simple there is not enough incentive to be a fast bowler or the system to find one. The stand and wallop pitches on domestic scene don't necessarily encourage any type of bowling.

As I said BCCI seems to be rich in cash flow, there is enough expertise on bowlers, I don't think too much is being done at least nothing is seen in the face of the recent results. The fact is, it is a collective lapse, cant really say batsman have done wonders and bowlers have bought back teams, on foreign tours of Eng and Aus bowlers buckled mid innings (often at the start) too many injuries, not enough match bowling, batsman and bowlers did little to inspire or please, capitulation was on the cards simply because pipeline of bowlers was bone dry and getting drier with every passing tour. Any sport is about balance, with an indifferent batting in alien conditions, batsman preferring to play their natural attacking shot making which either ended in slips or back on to stumps was a big embarrassment

Bowlers win test matches. The next crop of super stars have to be bowlers if Indian team has to be the top teams.

Its time to build again.

Its time, bitter pill was swallowed so that game can move ahead At this point in time it seems we need to swallow lot of pills and work towards getting on top of the tree in five years time. I don't know if Sachin alone is responsible to take a call on his retirement, can the board compel him of one more series, what are the stakes of the sponsors of Indian team and brand that Sachin endorses in his retirement. Should he have retred once Indi won the world cup?If looking forward should he retire at the end of next season, will he play in SAf late next year, many question. One is to make a pool of 25 to 30 players with two to three keepers, 4 to 5 spinners, 8 to ten seamers, 3 openers and other batsman. The senior players like Sehwag, Bhajji, Dhoni, Gambhir, Yuvraj, Zaheerj must be forced to chose any two of the three formats. I think Dhoni must give up gloves in T20 cricket. The captaincy must be split into limited and test cricket. There should be a cap on Indian players who opt to play test to appear in just 8 to 10 of 14 or whatever matches. There are subtle but definite steps that should be taken to safeguard test match cricket.

Old school of India cricket.

Indian batsman flunked the finger spinner test, they played like the English batsman, stuck on the crease, playing against the turn. We need to find the batsmen who step out and whack it out of the park and then sit back and cut, someone like Sidhu is you want a picture in mind. Old school test match batting seems to be extinct now, playing for time, session, pulling things back bit of old doggedness of boring but sustaining cricket. I think its time to get people of elder generations like Rayudu and Kaif into the test team, give them a decent run. I don't know who the next Indian spinner is on the horizon, one who keeps bowling length and hopefully his variation is not that delivery that pitches right once a spell. I mean one who attacks a spinners' length and batsman's stumps and can do that all day, in any conditions. Whats the incentive in India to be fast bowlers. The some of the time tested quality batsmanship witnessed in Aus vs SAf series along with top notch bowling on both side saw a conteswt keenly followed by cricket fans all over the world. It is that finesse and quality that was delight to watch. I feel there is that quality, Kohli-Dhoni partnership showed us in the last test. But we can be better. If the situation demands that spending time on the wickets keeping the team intact is primordial than natural game suited to flat feather beds must be curtailed when ball is doing tricks.

Indian board Must Do's

Get men responsible of producing a very competitive first class set up. Money is shouldn't be the issue, I think. They must flex there muscles, to have our domestic players to play couple of seasons, in Aus, Saf and England other places too if they can. They have money on the table and people acknowledge their clout. I pity they cant do that, Dravid and Zaheer gained immensely with their county stints. It helped Indian team to no ends. I am no authority of the pitches that first class set up is played about its not good enough to produce a stream of complete test batsmen and bowlers, may be there is some scope of things to be done there. IPL is a decent breeding ground to have a look at what our players have to follow, at least it is an avenue for Indian fans o see what talent is learning their trade on our circuit.

Its time to work of the slack and make a team for the next generation. If we don't find answers to some tough question India cricket may see a slide like many other teams have did in the recent past.

About: Bitter memories of 26/11

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Sun, 2 Dec 2012 20:28:00 +0530

A week and four years have gone past, some memories of continues to hunt. It is simplistic saying Pakistan send a few terrorist. The Police was quick in denying an insiders hands. its too simplistic. Things don't simply seem to be true,sum of the parts fall woefully short of the complete picture. You can spin conspiracies theory but lives were lost and the city subtly would never be the same again. It wont reflect in four years and a week but we all know it. It's changed not for the good following this planned attacks, at least this time.

There were three posts written around that time focus on what happened, I look back at it with a feeling of numbness and dismay. Please feel free to read those.

1. Blog: Maximum terrorised city.

2. Blog: The Darkest hour.

3. Blog: In tough times.

This is just a tiny little attempt to pay homage to my people who died in action to save the citizens and city.

Cricket: Indians undone by spin

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Sun, 2 Dec 2012 17:49:00 +0530

England have shown,test matches are won,when wickets are taken by bowlers and runs are scored by batsman. Ahmadabad seemed a timid match,like reading from a cliche' Bollywood the script. Dhoni asked for bounced and English spinners turned the table on Indian batsman, literally. Indian played with three spinners, none of them looked even closely as threatening as English spinners. The flurry of wickets on the first day set Indian on back foot. Cook and Pietersen, just rode the Indian bowling. I mean how tough it is for a spinner to purchase their wickets by constantly inviting the batsman to drive. Bhajji has almost lost it. Ashwin kept firing at middle and leg on Cook who kept dabbing most of the time, and turning it when the opportunity arrived. Indian batsmen lost on turn and bounce!

Often when playing at home,Indian problems get masked in the limelight of victory. I think we should welcome bouncy pitches, this result withstanding. I mean I don't know how easy is it for our batsmen, go wake up on a flight, disembark and bat on a bitch where ball is bouncing and climbing to chest high. I hope Indian bitches continue to turn and bounce. There is hope that emanates from this series of events.

Fingers, palms together closed fist and knock out punch.

Indian batsman of yore would use their feet, testament to this fact are bowling averages of Murali and Warne in India and other illustrious spinners before them. The new age Indian batsman, with heavier bats, bought up on flat-graveyard-for-bowlers pitch, tend to play from the crease. There was just one shot from Ashwin when the batsman got adventurous stepped out and smacked Swann for a six. The next delivery predictably was short pitch on middle and leg. The weariness to camp inside to the crease rather than getting to the pitch of ball and hitting over the top of all around the ground is the bane of Indian batsman today. If you play and prod against the spinner, your luck will run out sooner rather than latter.

Beaten by the pace and bounce of Spin.

Indian batting team scores in an inverse relation to the bounce on the pitch. Swann and Monty bowled fast on a turning pitch aided with bounce Their missing ingredient however was an invitation to drive. It is another skill that the Indian spinner lacked. Bhajji has been the chief exponent on how not to get wickets and spin. There could be various reasons for Bhajji being off the boil for last couple of years or more. I would just like to highlight. That in the last world cup (payed in India) he just had few wickets and for better part of tournament, Indian leading spinner had same number of wickets as Prosper Utseya of Zimbabwe. Its been that sad for Turbanator. Bhajji stock delivery is one which sees to crash land, on leg (sometimes) out of leg stump(more often than not) offering a single if not a boundary. I don't know if any batsmen visiting India would not welcome Harbhajan bowling. Bhajji has lost it.

Cook Pietersen together bake the cake.

England had one meaningful partnership and guess that was enough. Cook and Pietersen just pulverized a toothless Indian attack.. Indian bowlers had no clue where to bowl. Cook held one end up. Pietersen played a very crucial knock. He hammered at will He plays a high risk game, when it does come off, England look very good. He took this game with the scruff of the neck and just flayed it all along. He never looked to get out. His body language was proactive and he was in control. He out paced Cook for most of the partnership. It was very good attacking batting. His marathon innings ensured India were chasing a wild goose. English spinners did the rest. England won by 10 wickets a very good effort.

Looking back was it...

Was it the best toss to lose for England? Some careless batting, by the middle order and then some club class bowling saw us chasing the game. Pujara did hold one end up but feeble batting attempt by Sehwag, Kohli, Yuvraj and out of form Tendulkar just put us in a gridlock and we lost it from there. There are lot of lessons on offer provided team learns them and hopefully come out in Kolkatta as a better.

The series is now 1-1 with Indian Team on the back foot, this is now England's series to loose.

Cricket: England lose Motera test

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 22:18:00 +0530

India won the first test at Motera, Ahmadabad with 9 wickets to much delight. It look obvious on the end of the second day, probable of the third day, wishful at the end fourth day and finally on the fifth day with more than a session to spare. The Indian camp saw performances from Sehwag, who with a run ball century deflated a flagging English attach, Pujara scored a commanding and comprehensive double century, Ojha, toiled for more than 460 deliveries, got 9 wickets, finally stamped and concluded the script that Indian batsman write. The English camp meanwhile went in with weird selections, and came back with not too many performances. Captain Cook had a good match with the bat, but will have to do more going into the series.

Surely they didn't read anything from Shane Warne's column.

The Great Indian Rope trick, cricket version.

Well , Indian cricket equivalent of the Great Indian Rope trick. If you win the toss, at first, bat long, bat once, get the Indian batsman to cheer the crowd and let Indian bowlers rest their feet for first four session if not more. Indian batsman will come up with brilliant, sparkling magnificent poetic centuries, double centuries, and compelling, fifties. These were batsman would have only edged to ellipse of keeper when sailing beyond the high seas. The repeated failure against one kind of bowling in one kind of pitches and its repeat is daunting for the Indian fan. If Indian Team were in a position that Poms were in while traveling, we would have ended the test match by lunch on the fourth day. This is a premise of Great Indian Rope trick, Foreign Edition.

However the Oracle came true, Dhoni woke up on the right side of bed, got down at the right time from the bus, place his right leg on the ground as he went out for toss, stood on the right side of Cook while tossing up the coin, made the right call, India won the toss, made the right call of batting first, Sehwag and Dhoni, said to each other. “Right, Here we go.”

Alright, the same bowlers who were bowling 85 miles and above and swinging it like Beckham, look military medium, something like a canon fodder for phlegmatic Sehwag. I think Sehwag would have prayed for this kind of bowling. He would sleep walk to a century on this type of attack. The English bowling being as uninspiring as English weather. The quicks queued to bowl, Sehwag skewed it over deep point, they kept coming, he kept dispatching. Sehwag scored and Gambhir got some good time in the middle, he too like Sehwag has been off the boil. One of the first on endless reasons, of India's debacle on overseas tours. It got rectified though, a good meaty partnership, and an hour into the second session, England were looking like they lost the plot even before deciding to looking at one. Sehwag knock was interesting and uncharacteristic, because he didn't decide to go jogging by getting into a car. He warmed up and then went to beat leather with willow, runs flowed on their one. The tone was being set, rhythm was there, everything is fine when Indian Openers score a century partnership, Indian don't loose. Sehwag finally getting out on 117 for a very poor shot.

Swann song, Indian batsmen worries against finger spinners.

Graeme Swann had taken just four wickets against the SAf when SAfs toured England, four wickets. The worlds best spinner, playing in his own backyard claimed four wickets against a spin reluctant SAf batting line up. Indian batsman seemed to got stuck into Swann, before Swann decided to get stuck into Indian batsman.

Spinners, get wicket by inducing a stroke which is not to be played, be deceiving the batsmen, by varying the flight, pace, spin imparted on the ball resulting in batsman to gauge which shot he has to play. Swann at one point claimed all the four or five wickets to have fallen. These are big names. Any spinner will vouch for the fact that Indian batsman are hard to bowl to on Indian wickets, let along claim their wickets. Swann proved his class, claimed the top wickets. Gambhir went to cut one to a delivery that hurried, bounced low and disturbed the off stump. Sehwag was out sweeping again an uncharacteristic shot played at a time when he could have held the fort so to speak for some more time. Kohli's dismissal was the best of the lot, the ball was flighted, inviting Kohli to drive

Marathon runners – Cook and Pujara.

They build there innings and struck boundaries with percentage shot, hitting the boundary with a shot they was natural for them. Pujara and Cook kept rotating the strike and kept building the partnerships. Pujara has like camping in with his bad and pads, Cook, we know can bat forever. They seem to be unfazed almost ignorant about batsman coming and going at other end. It seemed they played the delivery rather than a situation of the match. Pujara scored a double ton. He has everything running for him, including comparison with a behemoth Rahul Dravid. The comparisons will also be there, but for that to happen, first few knocks and first matches especially at home (India) is unfair to Pujara and Dravid. Pujara has lot to prove and has enough ability to do it. I just hope we compare Dravid and Pujara after later has has played in Aus, Saf and England at least once especially in those places. Cook showed glimpses of resolved and kept chipping away, but injudiciousness of strokeplay of Trott, Pietersen, Bell failed to compliment Cook's efforts. Cook came back to bat again, as Dhoni asked England to follow on. Cook just dropped the anchor. This time a more authoritative display against spinners. on a fourth and fifth day pitch when Indian spinners were expected to run through the English batting line up. A few unimaginative strokes did seem to help Indian cause but, Cook then with Prior bought some respectability to English scorecard and made sure Indian will have to bat again. A fine 176 by Cook. He like batting here.

Ojha tweaks England.

Indian pitches are frustrating for the bowlers. Ojha bowled more than 70 overs, 9 wickets. I think he deserved a Man of the Match. 9 Wickets, is a lone effort, especially in the second innings when he held one end up and took wickets when required. Ojha and Pujara did well for themselves in the match as young guns. Ojha claimed Pietrsen wicket in both the innings, Pietersen may be guilty of getting out playing strokes which he didnt have too. It would have been embarrassing getting bowled, with middle stump flat or getting bowled second time over round the legs. Pietersen dimissal kept England in check.

So did Cook and Prior and Swann. Sehwag need to continue to do well. Yuvraj looked good for a century but got out caught in the deep of Samit Patel full toss.

England need to realign their selection template and game to the pitch on the ground. In India set template or set game plan don't work.

About: Festival of Dusshera

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 17:17:00 +0530

The festive season is already under way. Navratri (here Sharad Navratri) ended last night. My family folk celebrate two Navratri, one is before Dushera one is around Ram Navmi just around summer. Its a big kick start and almost a welcome to the best of seasons, seasonal fruits vegetables and delicacy after long grumbling summer and non stop torrential rains. Navratri – Dusshera, Diwali all bring special seasonal delicacies on the plate (here table), celebration of food and family. My take of festivities and what it could have been with respect to food, folklore and cultural significance. It is literally time to soak up the sun without worrying for tan or sun burns.

The root and celebration of fire and food.

Hunger is one of the basic needs. I guess almost all festival across cultures (not religions, cultures) celebrate food and life. I guess India being a agrarian and rural country, much of celebrations takes place when crops are harvested or sown. I guess, the moon phases and astrology/astronomy and the movements of the Sun the earliest clocks set the tone. The observations of movements of the stars and planets, constellations in different directions around sun set or sun rise, or with respect to other constellations would have triggered a change of seasons and its impact. Moon phases etc would have dictated the beneficial time to till the land, sow the seeds for crops, rear animals, harvest etc. It seems obvious now, but is you were to rewind back to a millenia, things were less obvious perhaps. I have a feeling that myths, stories and epics were woven around these celestial, meta-physical, historic, cultural, geographic, creative phenomenon to keep direction in terms of duties and obligations of an individual to a society, an attempt to weave people together to make sure, progress in sociology-economic sphere is possible. It is what I imagine, not really sure how it happened, if it did at all.

Anyways turn to the present.

The season between Diwali and Holi, official know as winters to other being living outside the Metropolis of Mumbai. It is the best season to move around, meet people, visit places and eat some fine delicacies. I have always had fond memories, of hot food and long walks on chilling evenings and occasional chocolate ice cream cone (other flavors welcome too). The festivities, now give opportunity to have a perspective in life and give and take earn and buy, meet family and friends. Its abut finding perspective in life of right and wrong, try to find an escape route from the rat race. It may also provide us the opportunity to appreciate other fellow human beings and hopefully acknowledge that ours life is not as bad as we project it to the surroundings. A little charity perhaps for others for whom food, clothing and shelter is privilege while life demands barters of sweat and blood for few peaceful breaths.

There is a confession though, rigorous cycle of home, family, demnds/wishes, office, expectation, competion, earnings, little more wants are hard to break free from.

The folklore and cultural significance.

I dont know how deep rooted the effects of culture our. I guess since it have dictate other terms of what we call life, it prevails. Indian society being diverse, each of them contributed to epics and ethics, most of which were passed down from Guru (spiritual guide) to shishya (spiritual aspirant) verbally for generations (it still happens) before it was coded in written form. There are many stories and mythics, perhaps historic perhaps imaginative. The narrative tough remains as true today as it was when it was narrated for the first time. Its the message that good will always prevail. Its perhaps hint that life is daily struggle and if conscience is adhered to, lot of stress and dismay can be avoided. It is a belief that all that is tough, daunting and intimidating can be over come with humility, simplicity, determination. It is amalgamation of so many things. Ram and Ravana, two opposite extremes in every aspects,in terms of personalities, beliefs, abilities, mindsets, values.

I think the debates between Ramayana and other cultural beliefs being historic or mythic is a futile one. The message is more important. Whats society without spiritual beliefs?There is no point debating virtues, extent and limits of cultural/religious text. It just a reference point to good and bad. The choice is compulsive more often than not. Its about shouldering responsibility and trying to fulfill few obligations. Its about keeping balance in life.

Cricket: Preview T20 World Cup

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 17:27:00 +0530

T20 frenzy kicks off from today in Sri Lanka. 12 teams clash to the shortest format of Gentlemens game. My quick 20 takes -

1. Weather could play a spoil sport,which will tumble the points table.

2. David and Goliaths, punt on a minnows beating a top Test teams.

3. Expecting big sixes, swinging yorkers, ace fielding,the team with best bowling and fielding will win the Cup.

4. Lots of cricketers play T20 leagues in Aus, India, England and Lanka. - Oram, Pollard, Vettori, Afridi etc.

5. Games within games, some making comeback Yuvraj and Kallis, some facing wilderness, Pietrsen debuts on the analyst corner.

6. All Rounders on premium – Kallis, Oram, Morkel, Afridi, Razzaq, McCullum, Dhoni, Angello Matthews, Sammy.

7. Myster Spinners - Ajmal, Afridi, Narine, Mendis, Ashwin, Balaji.

8. Ace fielders - Guptill, Pollar, Raina, Virat, Imaran Nazir, DeVilliers, Warner.

9. Game changers with the bat - Gayle, Raina, bravo, Angello, Baristow, Warner, Watson.

10. Game changers with the ball - Gul, Afridi, Mendis, Narine, Steyn, Watson.

11. Teams to watch out Pakistan, West Indies, South Africa.

12. Minnows to watch out for Ireland, Bangladesh, Australia.

13. Twitter, FB is in, Live telecast may see a blip in T20 at least at the group stages.

14. This is the most open tournament of cricket is last 10 years or more.

15. SL tend to be low and slow, the pitches are relaid and hopefully they wont be slow and low.

16. Toss could be a very big deal.

17. Dhoni and Co look very good if you consider a batting unit, only.

18. Future stars that may emerge will still have to grind it out in Test match areans.

19. A brilliant piece of felding, consecutive boundaries, run outs may just change the game on its head.

20. May the best team win.

Blog: To Goa and back

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 09:28:00 +0530

At the end of this week it will be a month,since I had a short vacation to Goa. I have been bought up in Mumbai, Goa seemed a natural choice for a short vacation for all these years. It wasn't to be. I had a chance to go to Goa from college, only for that paper I had to reappear in a place with blistering summers, far away from the lovely breeze of Goa. It wasn't to be. An office application faced a raised eyebrow from the boss,Goa?Yes!The application got ascent of the required along with heaved a sigh of much relief from me. The bags were packed couple of nights back. The camera was packed too this time. A list of places to visit list was prepared too.

Late to bed, early to rise makes the travel all the worth while.

Tickets were check and rechecked, couple of tickets were canceled, rescheduled, edited modified, but all that with in 4 days from the Zeroth day of travel. I was looking forward to the break, the monotony had got a tight grip on my life and surroundings. I just wanted to loosen a few shackles, breathe easy for a change, just for a few days. A confession here, my life is the most daunting, stressful and ungainly or something like. It is often easy to feel and find everyone is sailing on the same boat called “Scheduled Overloaded”

Anyways, repacking was not accounted for, one thing led to another, among the chaos, calls, dinner, packing. The luggage piled on and the reality started sinking in that the vacation as truly on. The alarm clocks were set and rechecked. A sleepless night and a feeble sound of alarm turning into a hooter,me waking up, shaking and stirring as everything was buzzing, from the ceiling fan to the running water to the cellphones. A call from the Cab announcing his availability and confirming my address. Oh wait,no, ok, Holy Cash! Cash invariably divides us and them, you and me, everyone of us. A cheque was written, a mad scamper not before getting ready reading the tickets again, munching something, packing half of whatever it was. It was starting to look a very long early morning, it wasn't even dawn yet. For a fleeting second I felt what it was to feel tryst o destiny and when world goes to sleep India wakes up to … Holidays I thought. A few more hustle bustle, click of lock and the lift downstairs, the waiting cab and off to catching the train.

Independence day Express.

A pleasant morning,seeing sunrise literally after ages as the train chugs in the station, a rush to get on and find the seats, empty coupes offering cold welcome, and warm blankets a futile attempt to stay awake for next 45 minutes, sipping and munching needlessly and aimlessly. I surrender to sleep, climbing up on to my allotted bunker and go to sleep what was to be the next two to two and half hours, perhaps more. A smell of coffee and cheese sandwich clearing the disorientation induced by my slumber. It was lot of munching and sipping as some real delicacies that were on offer and it seemed obvious to oblige, eating from the pantry in the train never felt so good and satiated. Hunger is surely the best sauce. A good sleep and stomach full, led me to the doors of the coach armed with cellphone and camera, enjoying the tunnels, the breeze and whiff of rain, and the very green flora and greys Konkan skies as, tunnels and rivulets, bridges and farms and fields continued parted only by the railway track in between them. The smell of earth and air of trees and rivers. The sounds of cool fresh air and hues of colour and vigour. It was mesmerizing, intoxicating and soothing, even journey seem to be the part of vacation. All the monies and confusion that prevailed during the planning of the vacation till the train was boarded seemed worthy now. There wasn't simply not enough to breathe in and soak in. I wasn't missing my tiredness.

Green green Goa.

Living in the concrete jungle and towering apartments, the intimidating hills and lush green almost seem to be forgotten and unimaginable. There was more than enough of it on the way, in and around Goa. It did rain while traveling but never played a spoil sport. The weather was nice and calm for most times. The food and drink was never too much to be had. Perhaps a group of 6 to 8 should make very efforts to come and unwind. I was amazed at what I missed, surely grass looks greener on the other side, but this one was different. It felt calmer and serene than usual. I grew up on an island city, kept looking at rising waves and wailing tides. It still has me under its charms. The sight seeing was yet to begin.

Sightseeing.

A bit expensive to travel around in Goa, especially in Rupee terms. It is best to hire a vehicle if you have a license. Otherwise the traveling part around Goa is expensive. I was there when rain was around, but it didn't prove much of a hassle, thank God for that. It was cool and pleasant It was such a change to unwind. There are lot of options for day tour around Goa. Take a bus and sea, North and South Goa. Lots of places to see and enjoy the sights and settle into the ease of Goa.

A friend of mine was getting married. So I had the pleasurable experience of Goan hospitality. It was a first Christian wedding for me. A very thrilling experience for me. I wanted to have more of Goa but then it had to come to an end as things an equal pleasurable train journey back to Mumbai awaited.

I guess places like Goa are best when you have a group of 6 to 8 people for the tour to be cost effective more the merrier.

PS:- I have posted albums on FB already. I will try to upload the pics in second edit.

Second Edit - Random Snaps from Goa Trip

Cricket: Second test and series win

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 5 Sep 2012 16:05:00 +0530

India took the series 2-0 against New Zealand. It looked a cruise after Dhoni hoick one out of the park for a six and claim victory in a match that swayed both ways. New Zealand stepping straight into the Test arena without a practice game against a tough team at home. More on that after the review of the series. Pujara and Kohi, stepping into Laxman and Dravid shoes. A big responsibility. They have done satisfactory considering what they would be weigh against for next few seasons if not next few years.

Indian pitches Bowler's graveyard?

Indian is not for the people who come on with their wares and sell them using techniques know to them. It doesn't work in India. The traditional seam and bounce of pitches of Australia, SAf and erstwhile West Indies, is missing neither there is swing of English pitches that prevail here. The lack of bounce, reverse swing, cross seem cutters are the order of the day. The bowlers have to mix it all up along with the conventional bowling. A change in length too, too short or too full will make the batsman look really cool and the fielding captain a fool. Martin proved it in some extent in the first test, let down by butter finger catching. Southee truly nailed the Indian batsmen in the first innings in the second test. I mean seven wickets on any pitch is commendable especially against, Indian batsmen on Indian pitches. Indian pitches calls for innovation and different mindset for the bowlers wanting to claim success against Indian batsmen.

The difference was fielding.

Indian fielding was top class, Dravid and Laxman did what they did with the bat but apart from exemplary batsmen they were good catches as well. Fielding was the difference, NZ dropped catches at crucial moments, which widening of the series to 2-0. NZ are expected to be good fielding side but catching for some reason was not class. Sehwag took some awesome catches off spinners, close in catching was also really very good. Ashwin and Ojha with the ball, Pujara and Kohli have ticked most boxes, now it's the question of consistency over the period.

Rosco and Southee come to rescue on the front

Ross Taylor shares the dais of audacity with Sehwag. Ross Taylor came out with intent and batted with intent, he matched fire and fire and at given point in time he literally swept the Indian spinners all around the park. A very comprehensive strokeful century just lit up the chances for NZ, but sadly in the end, he was out sweeping, and in the second innings he almost undid Southee's good work. Ross Taylor will get better, I don't know if Vettori will come back as captain. But I think McCullum on top of the order is asking a bit too much. He should be batting at five or six and keeping wickets. A little jig at the batting order and some more players will to bid their time at the crease will help Kiwis, coz we know they are good with in fielding and bowling. Southee kept it on the string and Indian batsmen were caught napping, injudicious shot selection did them in. They fell away like nine pins, but by then India had almost closed in on NZ. It was NZ onus to set a challenging target for India on the fourth innings. It was not before Virat scored a century, a brilliant effort, he deserved it, he had time to settle on the crease, he may have got one in the first test, wasn't to be. He got one in trying circumstances in the second test,with the team against the wall. He literally cashed in on Tendulkar's poor run. The challenge for Ojha, Ashwin, Pujara, Kohli, and Yadav and may be Raina is to build upon this fabulous start of the season and take it forward when tougher challenges come along.

NZ third innings wasted chance.

It was time for Indian spinners to come to the fore, that that they had not bagged wickets in the previous innings or match. The field set up just helped in compelling the batsman to think on the defensive. Ashwin ran thought the Kiwi batting line up, it was a wedding procession. Ojha fed Rosco for sweep shot, he bit more than he could chew, he was trapped leg before. Kane Williamson almost, played the perfect forward defense only to edge one to Sehwag. Ashwin churned out classical off spinners dismissals. Kiwis would have liked to have some more runs but Indian bowlers kept them in check. A solid start would be enough to seal the series.

Final Innings chase.

Indians traditionally haven't been good chaser. It was always preferred to set the total and wait for the mistake. In the last years (from 2000) in tests and ODIs arena under the aegis of Dravid and Laxman, batsman have learnt to construct and map out the chase. Indian fans have been witnessed to remarkable back to the front chases, be it series victory in that Lords final when Yuvraj and Kaif came together at 128/5 to chase down 327, be it record number of chases in times when Dravid was captain, no one may want to forget Dhoni's six to claim India's world cup victory. There are various reasons to it, one of them is stringing partnership. Sehwag and Gambhir almost exploded scoring at a fair rate before both convinced themselves to get out, a fragile partnership, Pujara showed glimpses of his mettle, a flurry of wickets and Virat and Dhoni, master of chases in current form and abilities guided the ship home and ensured a victory.

Two cents worth of advice to The Custodians of the Game.

If ICC is indeed serious about Test Cricket and all that the song and dance about IPL should stop. It is the mandate of ICC to see whats happening in test Arena, how to make it more competitive, how to balance DRS and tradition? How the tour should be structured?The top three or four teams should play five test match, I am pointing to England South Africa series. I don't remember when India last played five test series.

A good cricket contest will have people following, be it a T20 an ODI or Test. There is scope for cutting down ODI, have three or four teams tournaments in different venues. England had played an ODI series against Aussies, we might as well have had a very competitive tri-series, which sadly never happened. We would have cheered for a five match test series, which didn't happen. An ideal tour should have a three matches ODI series, a full first class match, a practice match followed by Test series and ending with a couple of T 20 matches. Thats ideally speaking. But if a tour is suited around this formula, quality of cricket will improve which would mean more following and probably more revenues. It is easier said than done, but it should be done for the sake of cricket followers for whom the game is played.

Cricket: Indians win first test

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 14:16:00 +0530

India won the match by innings and 115 runs. Ashwin took 12 wickets in the match. NZ were all out for 159 and 164. Pujara scored a mammoth 159, considering, he was number three a position guarded by Dravid for so long, along with guarding the top and middle order. Pujara, should look to build on, not only for this series, but also for rest of the season and collect as many runs before Indian team flies abroad. Dhoni seems to be getting his team. He should have got more runs. His pe3rformances will be crucial for team doing well at home.

India batter first, which wasn't much of rocket science. Sehwag and Gambhir started well. Gambhir and Sehwag should have pushed on and got more runs. A bad form and tough opposition are never far away, they did well but more is expected considering the fact the opposition will get tougher and chances of runs lesser as the long seasons prevails Its vital to get into habit of making runs rather than try playing an indifferent rash shot. Infact, Gambhir, Sehwag, Kohli holed out to shots uncalled for. Kiwis dropping catches didn't help matters. Sehwag, Pujara both being let off. Pujara and Kohli added a delightful partnership Many reckon there will be more to come from these two. Kohli made a good 50 and got out when he had a century for the taking. Raina got out caught behind of a glove. Dhoni started cautiously and just when he was about to cut loose, he holed out to mid on. Ashwin with some quick fire runs and Pujara ultimately getting out, Indian posted a very good competitive score of 430 plus.

Kiwis started strong. McCullum looked good, but was caught at cover not keeping an ambitious drive on the ground. McCullum is poor selection on the top. He is more likely to get more runs when Kiwis are 150 for 5 (or less). McCullum is hard to dislodge and Van Wyk although looks good as a keeper doesn't help the balance of the side. Kiwis should change their batting order to Guptill, Franklin, Williamson, McCullum, Taylor, Flynn drop Van Wyk get another batsman, get Southee playing. A bit more responsive and responsible fielding and they should do better. Ross Taylors performance with the bat is crucial. I mean leaving an off spinner of length or line is inviting problem. He should know. Kiwis showed bit of a fight in the second innings following on but then we all now wickets tend to fall in a heap in Test cricket. From 105 for 2 to 164 all out. Kiwis were caught in the spin, literally. The second innings' story is pretty much a repeat of the first. Indians caught well though, some stick some don't but Indians really converted half chances which reflected in the margin of victory.

I don't know if Bhajji is watching it, but Ashwins flight and line looked good. Bhajji is out of the reckoning for tests. I don't know if he would be the first choice bowler in T20. Ashwin and Pujara co-scripted a comprehensive win. But I think I would love to see Ojha and Ashwin inviting the batsman a little more. It's when the batsman obliges to drive can he offer chances of getting out caught with fielders round the bat or getting bowled etc. It is something that Indian teams think tank should take note.

I guess Indians have ticked most of the boxes which had to be ticked at the start of the season. The second test is in Bengalluru, starts this Friday The weather may impinge again.

Cricket: Preview NZ vs India

noreply@blogger.com (Tarun) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 14:47:00 +0530

New Zealand tour of India starts tomorrow. India are tough cookies to crack at home, it's the land of tigers for sure. It is the green pastures abroad that irks Indian cricket fans. NZ were beaten by Gayle and West Indies in West Indies now have sailed to India shores from Caribbean. Virender Sehwag part of welcoming entourage. Indian are in top five of the test table, six to eight points separate the teams on the top. NZ in the bottom of the table. Indian team on paper boast of some big names on prevailing conditions. NZ struggling to cover all bases. Vettori; NZ best selector, coach, physio, captain, bowler, batsman, strategist is missing out on injury having sat out a game in West Indies, perhaps struggling with an injury since days of IPL. Vettori's injury has just loaded the odds that bit more against NZ. However, this series has more than what meets the eye. This series is not for cricket fans who are anticipating India taking the series winning every match by an inning just after tea on the third day. I reckon it might just get close. The ICC ranking and team strength on paper is academic. The action on the pitch is what is of primary essence.

NZ – discipline of sticking to the basics.

We must expect Kiwis to come up with a disciplined performance with bat, ball and field every time. They have been a very good fielding sides. A good fielding sides can convert half chances into wickets, a run out invariably changes course of a match, more so in a test match. The opening batsman is not much of a thought on Indian pitches, any decent batsman, who has patience to stick around will do good. I don't like the idea of McCullum in the top order as a good one. He earned his reputation on finishing tight matches. He is a waste on top of the order. I wish to see Guptill and Williamson occupying two of the three top order, followed by Taylor and McCullum, Southee and Chris Martin with opening spell with the ball, Franklin as a first change. If they play a spinner, Dhoni may send them a Diwali-Christmas invite. It is an early start of the season, here in India. There will be a bit more bounce off the pitch, so deliveries that stay below the knee may rise sharply towards the knee cap. It's not something Indian batsman may lose their yawn. But then thats the slight and only advantage Kiwi bowlers should expect. I don't know if it is fair to say that subcontinent pitches are graveyard for fast bowlers. They should look to employ different skill set. Bowl stump to stump take advantage of indifferent bounce. They have option of bending the deliveries back with reverse swing. Zaheer would be there for their reference. They have the option of using a split field, a slip, two in the gully and two catching cover, one catching a short mid wicket,a third man and rest patrolling the boundary.

Complacency galore on Indian ranks.

Indian will be competing with complacency and NZ. Its fresh start to long and competitive season. The Poms and Aussies will already be making notes. India find themselves devoid of two vital cogs, Dravid and Laxman. Dravid hung his boots. Laxman who was born under the Damocles sword, live under it, blossomed under it, perished by it. It is bizarre that all of us, thought Laxman was the one replaceable when team didn't get the right set of results. I feel, looking back every innings of his was an attempt to bargain lease for one more innings. More on him in the following part of the blog. I just hope the youngsters “Do it for Laxman”.

The struggle with complacency will be a tough fight. If NZ prove to be more than sum of the parts, we could have a good series. It is time for Sachin to change his batting order. I don't know if it is prudent to break the opening partnership. Sehwag and Gambhir to open. Raina, Pujara, Rahane, Kohli, Badrinath are in the fray for two slots. I don't know why Kaif and Ambati Raydu are not in the fray. I have high hopes from Ambati Raydu. I guess he likes to get on with things and not sit and pose of talent and ability. Hyderabadi for Hyderabadai, I was hoping Raydu would replace Laxman. I will forward to the series to see if some of my questions will be answered.

These few questions are -

Will India play seven batsmen four bowlers?

If Irfan include can we have three seamers,two spinners?

Does Tendulkar have to play two down?

Should Rahane open the innings?

When does that tipping point arrives when questions of Tendulkar's retirement turn from why to why not?

There are two spinners Ashwin and Ojha, is there another new spinner on a distant horizon?

How is this series paves the way for rest of the season, when Poms and Aussies tour later in season?

Guys, do it for Laxman.

Indian batting line up boasted of Sehwag, Dravid, Tendulkar, Ganguly and Laxman. They all have had their critics and fans. Ganguly started with a bang and ended without a celebration. As his ODI performances grew his test prowess waned. Tendulkar was the acclaimed prodigy and did most things right to prove to be one. His success in scoring runs and being humble both at once is an enviable achievement. Sehwag is a maverick, his run scoring audacious ability is independent of pitch, bowling attack, match situation. Dravid a perfect test batsman, loads of temperament and skill and hunger for runs.

Laxman was in many ways had few these qualities of each of his team mates and still had something more, a signature uniqueness of his own. He had the audacity of Sehwag's strokes, the panache and grit of Dravid, exhilaration of Tendulkar, Ganguly's timing to script a performance. But in many ways he was unique. If you can flick a spinner, like Shane Warne you are good, if you can flick and score runs off Shane Warne when he is round the wicket, you are very good. If you can flick Shane Warne and score a boundary when he bowling at his peak and pitch is turning you are brilliant. If you can flick Shane Warne, bowling round the wicket on the fourth day out of the rough for consecutive boundaries on will you have to be Vangipurappu Venkata Sai Laxman. He did it on will. He has his best scores against the Aussies. I think his five of his best seven scores have been against Aussies. It wasn't an Aussie attack with erratic seam bowlers and a left arm orthodox darting at leg stump. It was the time when it consisted of three excellent and one a very good one.

He did excel and thrilled audiences with some brilliant counter attacks against odds. Off course his 281 at Eden comes to the mind. He and Dravid batted out the whole of the fourth day and turned the flagging series on its head. There was another one with Dravid at Adelaide. Aussies had scored 550 odd at 5 an over, Ponting going berserk Dravid and Laxman came together and stitch a strokeful 300 plus runs partnership, it bought the Aussie house was bought down. There was a 165 he made once in Sydney, India lost. The best score of the team after his 165 was 25. he flicked and cut all day with a strokeful century. He could carve out a stroke through the eye of needle at backward point and straightish mid wicket. Then there were so many rescue acts, Mohali, Durban, Monera, St Johns. He did it all, with an endearing smile. A chapter of cricket when batsman with touch scored runs has ended.

It was with such grace and style,just like flavours of Dum Biryani of Old Hyderabad City. He was as classic as styles of Nizams. The Nizams commanded a 21 gun salute one of only five princely state in the days gone by. Laxman of all deserves one.

A salute to The Very Very Special Laxman.