IPL - Indian Political League?

In spite of being a huge blockbuster last year, second edition of IPL appears to be rocked by troubled waters. IPL, the brainchild of Lalit Modi became superhit last year. Its stupendous success made Modi one of the most influential personalities in international Cricket. But, by the turn of the year, events took a dramatic turn. As the BJP led government in Rajasthan, which backed Lalit Modi to hilt, fell in the elections a few months ago, things started to become nasty for him. Having lost the RCA elections, Modi has now become desperate to stage this year's IPL edition and re-establish his authority. But the other league, Indian Political League is increasingly overshadowing the original IPL!

Both the IPLs have a few 'players' in common. Police, Public and Politicians . Police appears to be a confused lot. With the terrorists striking almost at will, the police must be wising the IPL does not get underway. With the general elections clashing with IPL schedule, obviously the security officials don't want additional burden. Indian public is Cricket crazy, no doubt. But now that the myth that the terrorists wont disrupt Cricket in the subcontinent busted by the attack on Sri Lankan Cricketers in Lahore, the public is certainly apprehensive.

For the politicians who run Cricket in India, this is the crunch time. Obviously, elections is their first priority, Cricket can wait. For Sharad Pawar it is a now-or-never battle as far as realising his long standing dream of being prime minister of the country is concerned. He's already attracting criticism for neglecting his ministry at the expense of BCCI. That's why he doesn't appear to be wholeheartedly behind Lalit Modi. Other Cricketing Politicians like Jaitley also are too busy in electioneering to think of IPL.

Overseas players, the main attraction of last year's IPL are reluctant to participate. Ponting has already withdrawn. Injury hit Flintoff is uncertain. Despite being appointed as Captain of Bangalore team, Kevin Pieterson's participation is doubtful. Lot of Aussie and Kiwi Cricketers too have expressed their concerns. IPL therefore, if conducted this year might well be without many of these stars.

all in all Lalit Modi's cup seem to be full of woes. Terror attacks, global recession, top stars' withdrawal. Everything has come at the same time. May be it is another Modi (Narendra Modi) who hogs the limelight this year - on the Election grounds of the Indian Political League!