Ahhh the Indian Premier League. Always a contentious issue and I think the perfect subject to start of a probably not so contentious blog. Maybe.
If you have made it this far than I can only assume you're an ardent cricket fan, because lets face it, fair-weather cricket fans just don't exist. They just don't. Those that love the game are more than happy to listen to various OAPs croon for 8 hours a day about buses, pigeons, the Heathrow flight schedule (and occasionally cricket) on TMS. Those that are not passionate about the game scoff with disbelief that test match cricket still exists, let alone broadcast on the radio. These people can just about come to terms with the concept of twenty20, but still won't be completely enamored with the sport until five5 has been introduced.
Anyway, lets get on with it. Because this season of the IPL coincided with India's 2009 general elections, the big boys in India announced they couldn't commit to the required security needed for such an event. It was decided that the elections were indeed more important than a 46 day cricket tournament. What is the world coming too? As a result, the second season of the IPL will be held outside India.
And unbelievably, England has emerged as the favourite to host this prestigious event. Have they not experienced the British weather in April?! Last year, just 1 out of the 59 games fell victim to the elements. My coldest experience watching sport came on an April morning, watching Warwickshire on a cold, wet and windy Friday morning; it was dismal. How on earth they expect to play 59 games over an English Spring is beyond me.
BUT this is just natural British pessimism creeping in, because I think it's a fantastic opportunity. It will bring the worlds best players to our shores for two months, along with all the glitz and the glamour that was witnessed last year. The benefits are fantastic too; with England set to host the twenty20 world cup later this year, and hosting the IPL will help their preparations immensely. The list goes on and on; the only downside being for poor old Setanta who may well see viewing figures dwindle as crowds flock to matches. It is surely a no-brainer for the ECB, and it will be a massive test of character to organise such an event in less than three weeks.
Here's hoping the IPL does come to Blighty, and we'll have two dramatic EPL's to enjoy.....
