The 365 shades of Sunil Gavasakr

By John Cheeran
Envy must be the middle name of former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar. I have criticized Gavaskar in the past and it makes me sad that the legendary cricketer remains as cussed as ever.
Gavaskar has said that international cricketers should be willing to play 365 days in a year. I would have dismissed Gavaskar’s comments with the contempt that it deserves but then he happens to be the Chairman of ICC’s Cricket Committee.
Gavaskar or, better still, Malcolm Speed should immediately clarify whether the ICC shares former Indian captain’s belief, of the more the merrier.
It is interesting to read what Gavasakr said on the subject: “I can’t see the problem, these players are turning out for their countries. It’s an honour to represent your country. I would be willing to sweat 365 days in a year for India. Those who can’t stand the heat should stay out.”
Gavaskar was reacting to reports of a possible strike by international cricketers if the ICC did not reduce the number of matches.
Quite recently Gavaskar had wore his national pride on his sleeve by taking up the India Cap issue.
It is strange that as someone who has played cricket at its highest level with great intensity Gavaskar cannot empathize with the plight of modern cricketers. Though no Indian cricketer has cribbed about playing too many matches the truth is that non-stop cricket is taking its toll all over the cricketing world.
Tim May, President of the Federation of International Cricketers Association, has drawn the ICC’s attention to the issue. “It’s a revenue-raising frenzy. It’s pushing the players into a position where they are just going to say, No, It’s too much, we’ re walking away from this.”
I strongly feel that when ICC takes a decision on the non-stop cricket what matters is the opinion of current crop of cricketers rather than old fogies such as Gavaskar.
Taking cue from Gavaskar, Sharad Pawar may one day make India play 365 days a year so that Rohan Gavaskar might get a chance to play for the country.