India of out of 2007 cricket world cup

Nothing unusual. India lost to Sri Lanka in a decider for qualifying to the next round. It was a shameful defeat, where India team, as usual, timidly gave up. It is a sad moment because it leaves millions dejected. But if we look at the brighter side, it will leave the nation better off. Had India qualified, it would have meant millions of young people glued to TV sets for the remaining tournament. Considering that an average game of cricket lasts for eight to nine hours; millions of people watching would have resulted in wastage of productive time.

India is fast changing. Lifestyles are getting cramped with work and it is getting harder to maintain a work life balance. In such circumstances, cricket even otherwise would have died its natural death. The game is just not meant for a nation on the run. Perhaps that is why USA and Canada gave up cricket and metamorphised the game into baseball.

Now only God knows what would happen to cricket - I hope it results in hockey gaining popularity.