Like fast food, IPL can be unhealthy

The Indian Premier League did get off to a rousing start on Friday, but can it maintain its glitter for long?

Cricket-crazy India has welcomed this league with open hands but to sustain its glamour will not be easy.

Yes, a mix of Bollywood and cricket can turn out to be fantastic, given the fact that an average Indian hero worships both Shah Rukh Khan and Tendulkar alike. A concoction of King Khan dancing to the excitement of the game can provide the same entertainment and thrill that they would otherwise derive from a three-hour movie.

Batsmen have played shots which a coach would normally tell his student never to even attempt. All traditional techniques of the game were torn to shreds and people actually lapped it up.

Indeed, all of it was a treat for the modern day spectator. Twenty20 provides all the adrenaline rush and action in plenty, but what happens then if the frequency of such games rise? IPL may go on to kill Test cricket in India and even 50-over matches may soon become 'boring'.

IPL's success can tempt organisers to stage more such events. They have already chalked out plans to stage a Champions League, featuring top domestic T20 sides from several countries to be held in September.

In abundance

It is natural to provide something in abundance when it is attractive, but Twenty20 is a form of game which should not be served in plenty. Like any treat, this too can have its dangers.

Cricket will be in danger the day spectators prefer watching batsmen like Brendon McCullum instead of a Rahul Dravid or V.V.S. Laxman.

IPL is more like a fast food, unhealthy if consumed regularly. The ICC should ensure that there is no excess of such events.

IPL's glitter can remain as long as all forms of the game co-exist. The powers- that-be should then stay away from the temptation to make quick money through an overkill.