Games people play

It’s common for matches to be postponed due to rains or an untoward incident, but doing so for Karva Chauth is unheard of. Our men in blue have often played on big festival days, even on home turf, but the BCCI has postponed the third match in the One-day International (ODI) series between India and New Zealand from October 19 to October 20. Although the final call will be taken only after a go-ahead from the New Zealand Cricket, social media had a field day.

We spoke to sports personalities to check if they thought it was justified. While cricketers like Mithali Raj and Pragyan Ojha welcomed the move, others termed it ridiculous. “It’s very strange but if the BCCI is flexible to change and if things aren’t disturbed, there is nothing wrong. One shouldn’t make a big hue and cry about it. It’s not like it’s a World Cup match. This match will be played in India and since the BCCI is the sole organiser, they are in a position to postpone it. There were times when players have forgone their family commitment to be there for the country, so why not do something for the players too,” reasons Mithali Raj, women’s cricket captain.

Cricketer Rohit Sharma tweeted “Sanskaari BCCI postponed Kotla ODI due to Karva Chauth. Don’t Blame Them Thr r so Many Newly wedded boys in The Team including me & Jadeja.”

Former cricketer Saad Bin Jung feels, “It’s being a bully. Why should we force our traditions down someone else This high-handedness has to go. Sometimes countries like England and Australia need to be shown attitude to be pushed back before a series — it’s part and parcel of mind games, but not with the Kiwis. They are gentlemen to the core and play cricket in its truest spirit.”

Another former cricketer Vijay Mohan Raj says, “If they genuinely feel that women will not watch the game due to this festival then it’s ok. But in this case, I think the players just wanted to be home with their wives. Ridiculous and illogical decision.”

Whatever the reason, cricketer Pragyan Ojha says, “It’s a good move for all the wives out there who observe fast for the entire day for their husbands.”