Year 2008 has been arguably the best since independence for Indian Sports. The media is buoyant over the exploits of Indian sportsmen. The likes of V.Anand, Saina Nehwal and Abhinav Bindra are being showered with praise by all. In the midst of the euphoria, some of the most disappointing events in sports this year are being overlooked. Following is a list of events that hurt me most as a dedicated fan of Indian sports.
Olympics Hockey without India : This is what hurts most. Over the last sixty years, India’s fortunes in Olympics rose and fell with performance of its Hockey team. The most successful nation in Olympics Hockey could not qualify for the main event. The decline was there for all of us to see when Indian team fared poorly in Doha Asiad. Autocratic President, corrupt officials and indifferent government. Indian Hockey can only rise from here. The trouble is its rise doesn’t seem likely in near future.
Ric Charlesworth ignored : World had sought inspiration from Indian Hockey. One such Australian, Ric Charlseworth, had offered his help to lift erstwhile superpower from dumps. But that was not to be. Ignored by the establishment, Ric went back to become Australia’s national coach.
Shooters betrayed the promise : Abhinav Bindra did India proud by winning Gold at the Olympics. But the Shooting contingent had promised more than one medal. But the much fancied Rajyawardhan Rathore fell miserably, so did Gagan Narang. The high profile Maharashtrian Girl Anjali Bhagwat could not justify her inclusion in team for third Olympics in row.
Paes-Bhupati Feud : Indian Tennis had a bad year. India does not have any player in top hundred. Indian team failed to enter the world group of Davis Cup. Indian pair of Paes and Bhupati could not cross the Quarter final hurdle at the Olympics. But the most disappointing development was the players’ revolt against the leadership of Leander Paes. Paes gives impression of being passionate about playing for India. One expects that Paes puts interests of the team ahead of every thing, including his professional rivalry with Bhupati. It was a sad story throughout the year
Sania's free fall : Sania Mirza too was a big flop this year. Her indulgence with glamour, media and controversies clearly diverted her from the game. Already out of the top 100, the road ahead for her is too steep.
Stranglehold of Politicians : Sports administration in India continues to be in shabby hands. Suresh Kalmadi, who brazenly justifies role of politicians in sports, continues to be the boss at IOA. Ailing minister PR Das Munshi, under whose presidentship India’s FIFA ranking has plummeted below 150,has been re-elected as President of Indian Football association.
Mendis Menace : Indian Cricket team is the darling of Indian public today. A very strong Indian team left for Sri Lanka in August last year aiming to win first series there. But the Fab Five put up the most dismal performance collectively. The feared batting lineup known for mastery against spin crumbled against rooky Mendis. A truly disappointing series not only for the viewers, but I am sure for the older members of the team who will have to forget about beating Sri Lanka in their country.
Having said that, the disappointments have been outnumbered by many pleasant surprises given by Indian players. India enters the new year with a fresh air of optimism. Let's hope Indian sports has taken a decisive turn in 2008 and this year, the forward march continues.
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