Democracy's XI - The Great Indian Cricket Story by Rajdeep Sardesau

 Rajdeep Sardesai by including his father in Democracy's XI has shown the fearlessness most of us lack most of the times. That Dilip Sardesai was an Indian Cricketing great is beyond doubt of any Indian Cricket aficionado; hence, Rajdeep has only done justice to Indian cricket by including his name.
 The author could have avoided frequent mention of players during 50s and 60s being deducted Rs.50 from their daily allowances if they won the match in 4 days. Rajdeep could have skipped including Mohammed Azharudin in his book. The fact that he was acquitted in the 2000 match-fixing case on technical reasons is sufficient. A better choice would have been Anil Kumble who represents all that cricket means.
 There is no discussion regarding the exclusion of Vishwanath from the Indian Cricket Team. Similarly, the equation between Gavaskar and Mohinder Amarnath is not discussed. A few tidbits on why Kapil Dev's career came to an abrupt end in 1994 would have enhanced the quality of the book. Kambli – Sachin relationship has been well discussed. Did Sourav-Dravid relationship sour during 2006, the book prefers to be diplomatic in this aspect. The role of Dhoni in the CSK fiasco has been swept under the carpet.

 The book contains an interesting insight into Indian Cricketing history without ruffling feathers. That perhaps reflects the gentleman that Rajdeep Sardesai is. A must read for any Indian Cricket fan.
 I was lucky, got an autograph from Rajdeep Sardesai along with a photograph

Indian cricketers never retire in stlye and with grace

In the past 4 years, cricket lovers across the world have been witness to the retirements of Steve Waugh, Warne, Mcgrath and Gilchrist. The entire stadium stood up to see off their heroes, the families were part of it and it was such a nostalgic event. All these cricketers announced their retirement when they got the whiff of their presence in the team being questioned. Warne, in fact went when people were asking why?

I have been following Indian cricket for the past two decades. Except Sunil Gavaskar no other Indian cricketer has had a graceful exit from the game. He did retire from test cricket in grand style with a classy 90 plus against Pakistan on an exploding Bangalore pitch. Even the great Kapil Dev had to be compelled to announce his retirement. The other legendary cricketers had to be dropped from the team and later they announced their retirement.

The famous five of Indian Cricket viz, Sachin, Kumble, Dravid, Saurav and VVS Lakshman are due for retirement in the near future. At some point of time they have to realize that they maybe blocking the way of many a talented youngsters. Somebody like Yuvraj and Kaif have waited ages to find a permanent place in the team. There may be a dip in the team’s performance once these legends call it a day but it will only be temporary. They have achieved enough in terms of fame and money. When the annals of cricket are written, these five legends will be in the top half of it. One can only hope these famous and celebrated cricketers do retire in a grand style and before the entire country starts asking when? Let the fans get a feel how it is to see a few legends retire.