IPL 2011 saved!

Well just imagine what would have happened in case there was an IPL in 2007 just after the world cup where India along with arch-rivals Pakistan gave a grand exit in the first round of the tournament itself after losing to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka? The franchisees would have been cursing themselves for bidding their hard earned and well thought money on such useless claims. Millions of dollars would have gone down the rains with not even a single paisa being able to recovered. With team India being favorites only on ad shows, viewers' ire would have reached its peak.

This time as well, had there been a super six stage, then India were supposed to win all three games against Pakistan, Australia and Sri Lanka in order to reach the semi-finals of the world cup. Coincidentally, India did win against all the three teams mentioned above in the quarter-finals, semi-finals and the finals. Luckily, India were the only team from group B to have crossed the quarter-finals stage beating Australia. This time, had India been exit from the world cup, then one need not cite specially what would have happened. May be the entire idea to have an IPL would have been dropped.

Of course, India did win the 2007 T20 world cup at South Africa. But, that was followed by a series of crashes after India failed twice in 2009 and 2010 to win even a single game in the super eights of the world cups. But, by then, the IPL had already been over. Added to that, the Indian team mates were also found partying late night that time after losing their last and final match against Sri Lanka. This would have added fuel to the fire no doubt. Now that India have won the world cup, things will go on as smooth as ever.

The IPL this time will be another big hit not only for players who would be seen making another debut but also for the fact that the world cup matches will be repeatedly replayed by the Indian cricket fans with an eye on the IPL. This time, there have been two more teams added with Pune Warriors and Kochi Tuskers Kerala making their debut. But, I wish the franchises have taken a risk with the world cup memories still afresh in people's minds. If everything is good then fine. But, things need to be viewed in other angles as well.