THE EMPTY stands visible in the Asia Cup 2008 matches of especially India and Pakistan, the arch rivals, on Wednesday are indications that cricket is losing its popularity. The same sight was in evidence during the India-Sri Lanka match on Thursday (July 3). It seems to be a case of confirmation of ‘too much cricket’. The players are complaining of tight schedules; viewers are tired of seeing the same faces in the fields and in the studios. The time has come for a break – to bring back the charms.

After the defeat at the hands of Pakistan on Wednesday (July 2), the Indian boys had to face plenty of criticism from all quarters. The score of 308 for 7 that they had put up was not enough and Pakistan achieved it with more than four overs to spare. All the TV channels pounced upon the juicy morsel because the slot reserved for sports is never complete without cricket. There are retired cricketers on every channel to provide expert advice and analysis and keep the viewers updated on the hows and whys of the game. The common man adds to his knowledge bank so that when he faces others, he can contribute to the conversations.

Therefore, equations were being worked out on the probabilities of India and the chances Dhoni had of proving the superiority of his team. He had already ruffled plenty of feathers by his utterances and, with the loss to Pakistan, questions were being asked as to whether Dhoni should take some time off. Practically, all the wise men agreed that the Indians had fallen short by at least 30 runs. But, that is neither here nor there – a loss is a loss. It was natural that the boys would be charged up against the Sri Lankans on Thursday.

That is just what happened. There were two Jayas in the team: Jayasurya and Jayawardhene. They could not provide much joy to the islanders. With the combined efforts of Kapugedare and Chamara Silva they ensured that the total crossed the 300 mark but, as the story unfolded, it turned out to be a not-too-difficult target for the Indians.

The opening partnership of 92 runs in 11 overs said it all; it was the sort of foundation that any team always wants. Sehwag and Gambhir were living dangerously and the cheeky singles that they stole from under the eyes of the fielders were signs that Dhoni could plan the future strategies of the finals and not for any return flight back home. Sehwag and Gambhir seem to be the answer to the Sachin Tendulkar-Sourav Ganguli pair. The Indians coasted to a comfortable win and would meet the Lankans again in the finals on Sunday (July 6). Lets hope that the best team wins – and, we keep our fingers crossed. Can Dhoni break the jinx?