Nevertheless, I came across an article by Andrew McLean, a New Zealand stereotype, if there is one, and he put forth the idea, albeit in humor, to seclude Australia from international cricket because they were simply too good. Make them play only world cups and a select few, he suggested. A few years ago the FIA tried to undermine the combined might of Ferrari and Schumacher, again because they were dominating what is essentially a spectator sport. Thankfully, the ICC does not have such foresight nor such decision making powers at its disposal.
Why this sudden stream of thought? Since when did the concept of a fair competition and evenly matched teams become a norm in the world of sport. Isnt competition about two individuals or two teams, each with their unique strengths and individuals, pitching their ability one against the other, however unbalanced they seem. Isnt that what competitive sports events are all about. Would you watch a match, knowing that Australia is playing without Gilchrist, McGrath, Ponting, Warne, not because of a quirk of fate, instead to ensure a fair and even platform, against a much maligned Zimbabwe or Bangladesh. It is indeed true not even the most die hard fans of the Oz, want to watch Australia take on Zimbabwe or Bangladesh, but for oppositions playing against the best, it is their opportunity to watch, admire and learn what it takes to be the best. For the best, set the standard, raise the bar and extend limits and challenge others to do the same. Isn't that the mantra for the best and those aspiring to be the best in all walks of life. Wouldn't you relish knowing that Zimbabwe or Bangladesh gave Australia a run for their money.
The pertinent question is should the best really be alienated or their ability undermined for the sake of competition or entertainment. Why this sudden persecution and dissension? What for? Competition? undermining the ability of the best so that they can compete on a platform where the mediocre can give them a run for their money. Entertainment? for the sake of the crow do we punish the nightingale. Isn't the purpose of competition lost when the victory is undervalued by tilting the balance in favor of the meek.
It is not within us or any central body to take away what is rightfully achieved by a select few through a combination of hardwork and foresight, and give to the mediocre, simply because they are mediocre and incompetent. The way of life and sport is determined by the desire to compete in an area of expertise of an individual or team and their passion for it, not dictated by the incompetent. Let us praise the best and not feed on their guilt for being the best, for that is the way of the meek and impotent.
P.S The need for this post arose from watching 14th ranked Vermont basketball team beating the 4th ranked Syracuse. The joy on the faces of the young men, cannot be put in words by me. For many, they had achieved what was the pinnacle of their young lives, such was their emotions, for they wore their hearts on their sleeves. On another note, I also beg to differ to with Andrew Mclean and many including some of my friends who think that Australia should be stopped from playing, although they all suggest it in humor.
No comments:
Post a Comment