Day : 2nd April, 2011
Place : Wankehede stadium, Mumbai
This was the day the Indian cricket team lifted the World Cup in the ODI format after a long hiatus of more than twenty years. The last time India achieved this mean feat was in the year 1983. The team was led by Mr. Kapil Dev.
Day : 6th April, 2014
Place : Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
Sri Lanka beat India to lift the world cup in the T20 format.
The last time the two teams met each other in the final was the last time when India lifted the cup.
There has been no dramatic change in the Indian team save for the loss of a few prominent faces, namely Tendulkar and Sreesanth. The latter who had a rather shameful exit as opposed to the former who held a glorious career marked by a tearful farewell.
Inspite of this there has been a slew of jokes going on around over the internet, social networks and messaging portals. Its rather very sad to see the changing face of the fans, who at one point were ecstatic when the team won the world cup. The other moment Yuvraj's house in Chandigarh was being stoned.
Why is it that the greatest game to be followed in India,stoops to such low levels of sportsmanship?
Why don't people who call themselves ardent cricket lovers admire the Sri Lankan side for a great game of cricket?
Is it that difficult to appreciate another person for his excellence?
Isn't it what any sport teaches us? To be humble in victory and gracious in defeat?
The same Indian captain who led India to victory has been criticised for his choices almost killing his achievements over a number of years.
The disappointment of fans is understood but i fail to understand the anger towards one player, blaming him for the loss. Cricket is a team game where each member is responsible for the performance of the team; be it horrible or outstanding.
It is essential that we applaud for the team which wins and take the failure in stride.
Most importantly for the Lankans who made this match an important and memorable match for Sangakkara and Jayawardene befitting their farewell.
Kudos to the Lankan lions and Team India better luck next time!!
