IPL: A Well Scripted Soap Opera

A soap opera, sometimes called "soap" for short, is an ongoing, episodic work of dramatic fiction presented in serial format on television or radio. The third IPL season was not much different to the other soaps. With tons of money involved in the whole operation, the chances of IPL being scripted could not be denied. All the media spoke about was how much the players are being paid by the franchises. However, they missed on a point that there still could be other possibilities. The first one being the players are paid such a high fees just to act in a manner the owners would like them to, or the players are making some extra pocket money via the bookies. In either of the case, the spirit of the game is tainted.

The final match between MI & CSK, was no less than a thriller episode which left everyone thinking. Until the very last moment before the match, it was not announced that Sachin would participate in the game or not. Was it a strategic (bookie’s) move or the incapability of team’s physicians to ascertain the players’ condition?

Also the numerous dramas at the field could not be more unnoticed. Though Sachin’s integrity could not be questioned, but how often does he express himself so extravagantly. At the run-out of Nayar, Tendulkar hits the ground with his bat in disgust. That’s not the Sahin I knew. Another question mark would be the batting order for MIs. At the fall of Tiwari, MI was 100/5 in 14.5 overs. Although the situation demanded Pollard to get into the action, Duminy was the one who stepped in the ground. Rationale unexplained! Another instance was at 14^th over when it appeared that Raina almost got Sachin caught behind and it was alright for the umpire to give a not-out signal, if he felt it that ways. Usually the commentators would dig into these cases.. But at this one or for that sake many other occasions, they kept their mum.

I myself got an opportunity to witness some betting. In the first innings there was a call that, will CSK be able to make 168 (a yes or no call). Though it seemed unachievable, the four of a wide ball made it possible. And to my amusement the team total stood exactly at 168. Speechless!

Normally we would like to have the true story from the horse’s mouth. But, I suppose these horses are way too busy feeding themselves with money hay.