Sir Viv Richards has said that he isn’t too thrilled with the way the World Cup has been organised. According to him, the excitement normally associated with cricket in the Caribbean is missing; even at the new Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. He said, “Those of us who have played here know what it’s all about; the excitement factor. We are a vibrant people.” There is a lot of criticism about the organisation and despite the best intentions and efforts, it’s just not coming together as yet. Add to that the fact that the Windies will be knocked out soon and the attendances would dwindle further.
One team that doesn’t have to worry about getting knocked out is New Zealand and Craig McMillan says he is feeling good about New Zealand’s chances. Can’t really disagree with him considering New Zealand is playing some pretty fabulous cricket. One wonders if even Australia can stop them. McMillan is not getting overconfident, though. He knows there are some big matches coming up before the semi-final and New Zealand could still get knocked out if England can spring a miracle. But there’s more of a mathematical chance of that happening that reality!
Meanwhile, the developments in India are affecting the Bangladesh team in the Caribbean! Dav Whatmore’s open interest in coaching the Indian team has irked the Bangladesh board and apparently some players too. It’s not surprising. On the one side, his team’s enjoying their best month of cricket ever, but they are not winning. On the other, a job as the Indian coach would be the biggest challenge he could ask for as coach not to mention the riches it brings along! He is caught between a rock and a hard place and if he is seriously interested (which he insists he is), he had to make his intentions clear.
One of the biggest matches coming up is on Sunday between archrivals Australia and England and Australia would be itching to take revenge for the CB Series final loss. That loss sparked off a five-match losing streak before Ricky Ponting’s return brought them back into form and is now back on track to completing a hat-trick. The next three weeks shall reveal a champion but there is a lot of cricket to be played before that. And don’t mind the organisational glitches. Just enjoy!