Professional sport is one of those (last few) things left, which is like a guy thing . Watching a good game with the right company, critiquing the commentary and game strategy, debating hazaar statistics and of course, consuming beer, adds up to make it that kind of an event.
What the IPL has done (though good for its coffers) is to make cricket a complete entertainment package with no respect for any of the nuances . So, you have people who have never seen cricket before decide to support the Rajasthan Royals- Why? Coz Shilpa Shetty owns the team and a smoking tubby Shane Warne is charismatic. All the right reasons, as you can see. Plus of course, Mandira Bedi for commentary. This year, the ads suggest there is something special being planned for kids during the coverage. Oh my God!!
I am not v sure, but I think the EPL isnt some kind of a family mela. That may be because soccer is a contact sport..who knows ! Also, it hasnt been marketed in this kind of a manner with movie stars & the type being team owners etc etc. Tragedy is that every year, the IPL only gets more and more away from the clutches and understanding of a hardcore cricket or sports geek.
All the above are part of the reason why you wouldnt know who has been the top scorer in the 2 IPL editions, which batter has been the game changer, which bowler has best eco rates, whats the key strategy element in a T20 and so on.....
I may still watch it coz it is telecast at a time when I may otherwise be watching some meaningless news program on CNN or CNBC..But surely not enjoying it too much ...
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