Duped by IPL

• The IPL gave the Indian team a false sense of security, particularly at a time when they should have been preparing for the T20 world championship. It’s a fact that India has successfully brought big money to cricket and opened its doors to new talent, let alone a larger audience. However, governing bodies need to know where and when to draw the line. Cricket is a sport and not a television programme. Since the BCCI also influences the functioning of other sports bodies, it should take corrective action.

— R. Gupta

Pune

Icon, superstar, man

• News of Michael Jackson’s death is heartbreaking. It’s all the more painful because, after quitting the music scene in the mid-’90s, Jackson was to begin his comeback tour with the UK next month. The star had passed through many personal and professional tribulations; however, his iconic status will last. Those who had predicted Jackson burning out as a child prodigy were proved wrong. The boy became history. From his unique dance style to the music video, Jackson inaugurated an era, which came to an end on Thursday.

— Anjan Chatterjee

Nagpur

Right way

• The decision to induct Nandan Nilekani into government is a welcome step (‘The new way’, IE, June 26). For once, ulterior motives and politics seem to be absent from the scene. It may well be the beginning of a bigger and deeper relationship between government and corporate. It could usher in professionalism in governance too. Nilekani’s experience will not only ensure smooth implementation of the mammoth ID project but also establish a healthy precedent.

... contd.