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| SPORTS TRIBUNE | Saturday, October 5, 2002, Chandigarh, India |
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Asian Games: evolution and growth The charge of the youth brigade Moment of truth for India in tennis
TEEING-OFF
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Kudos to Indian cricket team |
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Asian Games: evolution and growth CONTINENTAL sporting events like the Asian Games have acquired a unique status over the past five decades. What began as a small sapling way back in 1951 has gradually grown into a big tree in consonance with its motto: “Ever onward”. It was in the late forties that a movement had begun in India. The seed of Asian Games, or a continental sporting activity, was conceived and sown during the 1947 conference of Asian Relations in Delhi. Having had the experience of organising Western Asiatic Games or taking part in the Far Eastern Championships, Prof G. D. Sondhi, the then honorary secretary of Indian Olympic Association, and with endorsement from Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singh, a concept note was circulated, which found wide support. Among those who backed the idea was Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. It was at his behest that the event was christened as “Asian Games”. After initial hiccups and two postponements, the Games got underway at New Delhi on March 4, 1951 at the National Stadium. From a modest beginning in six disciplines and some 500 athletes from 11 countries, the 14th Asian Games at Busan are now featuring 7000 athletes. For readers of The Tribune, it may be interesting to note that its former Sports Editor, the late M.L. Kapur, was also associated with the first Asian Games. One of India’s leading sports administrators of the times, Anthony de Mello had sought his services for the publicity committee formed under Devdas Gandhi. After the spadework by Prof Sondhi and pioneering efforts by Anthony de Mello, the Games got moving. One of the first tasks was to convert the Irwin Amphitheatre into the National Stadium, which till date continues to be the hub of sporting activity in the capital. With the blessings of Prime Minister Nehru, the first edition began with President Rajendra Prasad declaring the Games open. As De Mello noted in his book “The majestic ramparts of Purana Qila, the old fort, (which forms the backdrop to National Stadium) shook as 21 guns boomed. As we watched history being made some of us thought, too, of the history which our ancestors had already made; it was in this fort, so the epics tell us, that the Pandavas dwelt during the Battle of Kurukshetra”. Athletes from Afghanistan, Burma; Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Malaya (Malaysia), Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, India and observers from Nepal took part in the march past. The honour of carrying and lighting the flame want to Brig Dalip Singh who had represented the country in the 1924 Paris Olympics. The flame had been lit from the sun-rays at the Red Fort and carried to the National Stadium, which is some 8 km away, by runners. Baldev Singh, captain of the Indian team, took the oath on behalf of the participants. Eight days later, the curtain came down on what was then the greatest carnival of international sports on Indian soil. Among those present on the occasion was Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru whose slogan: “Play the game in the spirit of the game” holds good even day. Japan topped the medal winners list with India in the second slot. Lavy Pinto became the fastest man in Asia bagging the 100 metres and 200 metres in athletics, a discipline that gave India 10 gold. Four medals came from the pool while a goal from legendary Mewa Lal got India the title in football. Prior to the first edition of the games, the Asian Games Federation was formed in 1949 which was subsequently changed to the Olympic Council of Asia, by the time the Games returned to New Delhi in 1982. The success of the first Asian Games led to the second edition. Manila hosted the Games which were held during May, 1954. The number of countries swelled to 18 and competitions were held in eight disciplines. Cycling was dropped while wrestling, boxing and shooting were added. For the first time, an attempt was made to expand the event from a purely sporting show to culture. An art exhibition was to run concurrently. The idea has now grown and an elaborate opening ceremony which showcases the cultural history of the hosts. By the time the second edition came to an end, Japan maintained its supremacy in Asia. This was the first time that Pakistan had entered the Games. However, the real tussle for supremacy between the two traditional hockey rivals had to wait till the third Asian Games hosted by Tokyo in 1958. These games will be remembered for India’s first-ever defeat in international hockey and Milkha Singh bursting on the scene. Although India drew goal-less with Pakistan in the final, the title went Pakistan’s way on the basis of goal average. It took India two Asian Games to avenge the defeat. |
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The charge of the youth brigade INDIA’S preparation for the cricket World Cup, scheduled to be played in South Africa in February-March next year, seems to be on course and the national squad is shaping up to the expectations of the fans, both at home and abroad. The only single worry is the fifth bowler and the role of the part-time wicketkeeper and these areas need beefing up or looked into at the earliest. Luckily there is enough time at India’s disposal. At present the fifth bowler’s slot is filled by Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, Saurav Ganguly and Virender Sehwag. Between them they are giving away anything between 50 to 60 runs in the 10 overs. This is one area that must be worrying the Indian coach John Wright as also the team management. John Wright has in fact admitted this in a recent televised interview. Also, Rahul Dravid is performing reasonably well behind the stumps but some experts are of the view that the job of keeping is best left to a specialist. Maybe, the selectors will give a deep thought to this vexed question because by playing Rahul as keeper they are able to induct an additional batsman in the playing team. After suffering a series of losses in the finals of one-day tournaments over the past couple of years, India went on to win the three-nation Nat-West Trophy in England in style after successfully chasing over 300 runs for a win, and then played to its full potential to emerge joint winners of the ICC Champions Trophy along with hosts Sri Lanka. To be fair to India the way they were playing in Sri Lanka after pulling off victories first against Zimbabwe, then England and finally against South Africa in the semifinal, it seemed quite a certainty that they would be able to clinch the title in the Colombo tournament had not rain played spoilsport on both days. What is, however, more pleasing is the fact that even when the chips are down as it was when South Africa were chasing India’s modest total the Indian players did not let their shoulders drop. Every time things don’t go according to plan there is somebody to pull the team out of harm’s way. Otherwise, who could imagine Virender Sehwag bowling the last over in the match against South Africa! Now India have a series against the West Indies at home in which they play as many as seven one-day matches and then a tour of New Zealand where they take on the hosts again in seven one-day ties to fine-tune their gameplan before they play Holland in the Cup opener on February 12, 2003, at Paarl. Their recent run of victories must have given them a lot of confidence but it must be admitted that the Indian team needs some fine-tuning if it has to be counted among the favourites to win next year’s edition of the World Cup, as some pundits have already. said. One thing going in India’s favour at the moment is that the team is a fine blend of youth and experience with everybody in the squad knowing what is expected of him. If Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Mohammad Kaif, Harbhajan Singh, Dinesh Mongia, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra and Ajit Agarkar are the face of youth in the squad the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, skipper Saurav Ganguly (and in this context it must be said that it is time for the national selectors to declare him captain right up to the World Cup so that he can plan and work out his strategies), Rahul Dravid, V.V.S. Laxman, Anil Kumble and the recalled Javagal Srinath are the experienced players in the squad who all have an earmarked place in the Indian gameplan. More than the seniors it has been the inspired lot of juniors who have played the stellar role in India’s recent campaigns. Be it Sehwag, or Kaif, or Yuvraj Singh or Zaheer Khan, they have all played key roles in some match or the other in recent games. Showing no nerves and showing scant respect for the reputation of the opposition they made a mockery of international standings. Their wonderful approach to the game has indeed made India a power to reckon with in international cricket. In spite of the strong defence of Saurav, Srinath’s performance in the first abandoned final at Colombo was miserable and by asking him to sit out in the replayed final was indeed the right decision. But in South Africa India would need the experience of Srinath but he has to prepare systematically for the ‘‘big show’’. Similarly, Kumble too has failed to live up to the expectations of the fans. Hopefully he should be in a position to sort out his problems before he lands in South Africa. Dropping these two experienced players from the national squad, as certain pundits have said, is not the right solution. Both Srinath and Anil Kumble have the experience of playing in South Africa and this would be sorely needed in next year’s World Cup. After all only experience can lead the youth brigade! |
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Moment of truth for India in tennis IS India’s sojourn in Davis Cup big league over? That is the fact which stares in the face after the defeat at the hands of Australia during the weekend. It would be wrong however to state that any other result was expected in the match. But the verdict has managed to remind the tennis following in the country that the moment of truth has finally come. It was there all the time, for quite a number of years now, ever since the departure of Ramesh Krishnan and Vijay Amrithraj from the scene. That it was postponed and the good times stretched was in the main due to the fire and spirit which Leander Paes seemed to exude. And what a fantastic performer this man has been. Never placed in the first 100 of the ATP rankings, he has nevertheless, with rare exceptions, beaten some of the greatest players of his times in the Davis Cup matches. In fact his performance should be considered even better than that of Ramanathan Krishnan in this competition. Krishnan lowered the colours of many a star but then he himself was no less a star, having in the early 60s, ranked at No 3 in the world. Leander has been an excellent torch bearer for Indian Davis Cup aspirations, filling in a void created by the departure of Ramesh Krishnan, a distinguished son of the great Ramanathan Krishnan. A big question mark formed when Vijay Amrithraj and Krishnan departed from the Indian Davis Cup scene and for a while the federation tried many alternatives but all proved to be make-shift arrangements till first Leander settled in and then Mahesh Bhupathi joined him in the mid-90s. The two of them kept the Indian flag flying even establishing themselves as the No 1 doubles pair in the world. That successful partnership added to Leander’s often unbelievably brilliant display in the singles laid low many an international reputation. But as the years progressed the old question was raised again and again. How long before these two tried and trusted pair would be able to continue. The ageing process meant injuries and there were times that one or the other had to keep out of the competition. In fact India missed the services of Mahesh Bhupathi in the latest competition against Australia. His presence may not have had a major effect on the final verdict but India could have put up a better show , particularly in the doubles where a consolation win could have done wonders for the flagging spirit. There was one major difference between this latest tie and the ones in which both Leander and Mahesh had played earlier. For the first time there was reference to Leander’s age and the fact that he was no more the fit and energetic youngster of yesteryears. At 29, Leander is no spring chicken. In fact with the possible exception of the top two or three world graded stars, tennis players in other countries normally call it a day by this time. But then they are champions by the time they are 19 or 20, at an age where Indians normally are still in the maturing process. What of the future? At best Leander and Mahesh have a couple of years more. After that one has to look at the bench strength. There is Rohan Bopanna (ranked 363), Harsh Mankad (831) and Sunil Kumar (539), all waiting to fill in the void. Of the lot and judging on the potential Bopanna appears to be the one most likely to go places but he will have to improve considerably to come in the first 100 category. But even allowing for their hunger it is difficult at this stage to visualise drastic change in the country’s fortunes. It is a pity though. Tennis is the one sport where India has made an impact in the world without really having any champions. It has reached the Davis Cup final on three occasions. It has produced players who have won the Wimbledon title at the junior level, one player who made the men’s singles semi-finals twice in succession and among others, another who left a rare mark losing out to a superior star after winning the first two sets. Ramanathan Krishnan who was the highest ranked Indian ever at No 3 in the world is still a revered figure, known for his touch play and a famous backhand, was the man who woke up the critics by entering the semi-finals while Vijay Amrithraj can perhaps never forgive himself for losing a match after a two sets to one and a 5-4 advantage to Bjon Borg in the quarter-finals. There have been many other splendid performances elsewhere, particularly in the Davis Cup competition, which has kept India’s reputation high. But these are all things of the past. In India tennis has basically been family productions with the Krishnans and Amrithrajs being the prime examples. And things have now changed for any single family to prosper in likewise fashion. Tennis now is a totally professional with money the main motivator. Indian tennis players need to change their approach, work on their physical fitness and show more hunger. Perhaps the Amritraj family will step in to show the way. Vijay’s son, Prakash is in the news, having won some major collegiate title and gaining a wildcard entry in the US Open. And there is Stephen, son of Anand Amrithraj, another star reportedly in the making. And they can play for India! |
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Indian football’s towering figure AMONG the shining stars of Indian football, Kerala's IM Vijayan commands as much respect as any member of the Brazilian squad does in Sao Paulo. For years together, Vijayan has been in the limelight, both at the national and international level. Till a few years back, success was synonymous with the top striker and for five years the Federation Cup fell into the lap of whichever club he represented, including Kerala Police, Mohun Bagan and JCT Phagwara. In 1996 he was also part of the JCT roster and the club won their maiden title in the National Football League. Later Vijayan left Punjab and last season he donned the red and gold jersey of East Bengal. However, this season he has opted to play for the
Punjab club again along with Joe Paul Ancheri, a key member of the Indian team. Born on April 25, 1969, Vijayan has played in almost every national and international tournament, including the SAF Games, Nehru Gold Cup and the SAFF Football Tournament. The Durand Cup and the national championship for the Santosh Trophy remained incomplete without his participation. Vijayan's second stint with JCT this season is already turning out to be lucky for the team. JCT won the 16th Punjab State Super League recently after a fairly long gap. In an informal chat with The Tribune, Vijayan was all praise for Punjabi hospitality. "I have hardly encountered any problem here," he said. "Although people from my area are few in number, it hardly matters. I feel like being at home and there is no question of home sickness," he said. Having been allotted a decent house within the JCT complex at Phagwara, Vijayan has also brought along his family. When he plays, his wife and children, including daughters Archana (7) and Aromal (5) and son Amy watch him with interest. Their joy knows no bounds when he scores a goal. "Their presence is inspiring," says Vijayan with a smile. When he is free, Vijayan travels with his family to Jalandhar. A movie and dinner in a local restaurant is refreshing. The star footballer was thrice chosen as the country's best player. "In 1993 a phone call from my friend Manorama was really big news for me when he informed me that I had been adjudged the best player. In 1997 and 2000, I was again adjudged the best player. However, I don't know when I will be in contention for the Arjuna Award," he said. |
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TEEING-OFF KAPIL Bhatia’s one-year innings as president of the Delhi Golf Club (DGC) is about to end. He is not seeking re-election as he is pre-occupied with his business commitments. The DGC’s elections on October I2 (Saturday) will be a straight contest between Kittu Puri and Surender Prasad. Both are heavy-weights in their own spheres. Twice captain, Puri knows the bulk of ‘A’ members. Prasad draws his strength from his frankness because he does not pull his punches. Short of door to door canvassing, both aspirants are busy organising get togethers to seek support and patronage of members. Both are optimistic of their victory but both are aware that no rival should be taken lightly. Those, who have studied the pulse of the club for many years, believe that it will be a close contest. Whatever may be the outcome, the DGC constitution is an age-old document and needs to be amended. Most of the voting ‘A’ members (they are in all 750) are not active for several reasons. No wonder only about 400 members cast their votes. Actually, a sizable of them are brought about at the venue by candidates and their supporters. The statistics show that the course and club are more utilised by ‘B’ and ‘C’ members, who are unfortunately denied the privilege of exercising their franchise. It is these members who are providing revenue to the club which, if it is throbbing, is because of them. It is they who should be allowed to vote and made part of the management. The club needs young persons, who have refreshing ideas and time to contribute for the upliftment of the club. Golf and tourism Worldwide, golf and tourism are marching ahead because they are functioning hand-in-hand. Each is supplementary to the other. In this country, there is more futile talk than concrete efforts to help promote golf and tourism. In golf, for that matter in every ball game, timing is of essence. The Tourism Ministry organised the first India Tourism Global Interline Golf Championship at the time when two more important events, Asian Games and ICC World Cup, were in progress. As a result not much mileage could be had despite Tiger Sports Marketing’s sincere endeavour. Again, in golf consistency is very important. A few years ago, the ITDC organised a wonderful competition at the DGC. The competition was the talk of the town. But it was not continued. No tangible results will accrue if consistent efforts are not made. The response from individuals and teams from airlines and travel agents was more than encouraging. The ministry’s efforts to publish a four-page folder: “Incredible India-an unforgettable golfing destination, through TSM, were well received. But the ministry and its high-flown coordinator did not bother to get golf addicts from media to be present at the Classic Resort. Organisers and media have to go together for the success of any sporting event. If cricket in this country is throbbing, it is because of media. Vijay Singh is coming One of world’s most renowned and respected golfers, Vijay Singh will be seen in action at the DLF course on November 9, 10 and 11. His participation will help in promotion of golf in the country. Sponsored by the Thapar Group, Vijay was originally scheduled to play at DLF on April 19 and 20, 2002. But he could not make it because he got injured. Winner of Augasta Masters in 2000, Vijay Singh will also hold coaching clinic for youngsters and others on November 11. The format will be skins but who will be playing from among Indian professionals will be known shortly. |
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Kudos to Indian cricket team HEARTIEST congratulations to the Indian cricket team for sharing the ICC Champions Trophy with Sri Lanka. Had rain not disrupted the final, there was no doubt that the Indian team would have emerged victorious. All members deserve praise and appreciation for their collective effort. It was a triumph of team spirit. Hats off to Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, Mohammad Kaif and Saurav Ganguly who took India to the pinnacle of glory. The efforts of Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh cannot be ignored. The Indian team should apply the same sense of commitment in the World Cup next year.
ANJIV SINGH JASWAL II It was a yet another emphatic victory for India in the ICC Champions Trophy against South Africa. It was really astonishing to see India snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. All the 11 men played their part to the utmost. But the two breathtaking catches by Yuvraj Singh need special mention. Only an athletic and a robust person can do this sort of work. Now the Indians have proved that they, too, can win pressure games. They really need a pat for this unbelievable victory. Moreover, it is always a special occasion to beat a high calibre team like South Africa. I am sure the Indians will pose a tough challenge to the rest of the cricketing world in the 2003 World Cup. RAJAN PARMAR III India’s win over South Africa in the Champions Trophy is another feather in the cap of Saurav Ganguly. The boys did not succumb to any pressure. The credit cannot be given to one or a couple of players. Rather it was team spirit and organised performance of each player. We are really proud of the way the players put in their best. Three cheers again! H.S. DIMPLE IV Congratulations to the Indian cricket team for the remarkable win over England in the Leeds Test. The win has come at a time when the entire nation was watching the ongoing tussle between the ICC-BCCI and the players over the contract issue. The superb performance by the Indian team has proved once again that they have the right combination of players capable of defeating any world class team. I would also like to thank former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu for his tremendous support to the Indian players sitting in the commentary box. It was he who predicted an Indian win on the second day of the Test itself. MANAN GUPTA V Our cricket team has done us proud by the convincing victory against England. Let this victory be a catalyst to cricketing reforms. Too much money is killing the spirit of the game. There must be some mechanism to restrict the amount so that the players and boards do not appear to be mercenaries. Secondly the cricket boards need to be revamped. Past cricketers of stature should be at the helm of affairs. RAGHUBIR SINGH SA team’s gesture The South African cricket team has decided to wear black arm bands during next year’s World Cup as a mark of respect and honour to their former captain Hansie Cronje. I really appreciate their gesture. When Kapil Dev was chosen Wisden Indian cricketer of the century, he too mentioned about Azharuddin as captain and player. It does not matter whether we call these persons cheats, but the fact is that they were really wonderful players, considering that Cronje was the most respected personality among cricketers. VINISH GARG |
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