More than a match

During the controversy India’s major newspapers were full of articles that read more like passionate opinion pieces, emotional outpourings, or manifestoes on sportsmanship rather than the neutral and objective reports that the Indian media is renowned for. The Indian cricket team, described as ‘beleaguered’ and seeking ‘justice’ were pitted against the ‘Aussies’ who were ‘unrepentant’ bullies.

The coverage afforded to this controversy in the Indian media appeared to be on par with the attention usually given to major political events. But surely not all Indians are this passionate about cricket.

I recall my travels in India four years ago, when a match between India and Pakistan was being played. For hours the business in Paharganj stopped and the stillness was surreal. Then came the victory — ecstatic screams echoed through Delhi’s streets. But perhaps this was just an India-Pakistan thing, the cricket factor being secondary. Wrong.

Oddly, during the controversy I found myself acting like the Australian cricket team’s representative — the role that my Indian friends had been subtly ascribing to me.

As a foreigner it is exciting seeing this electric and passionate energy that animates a mere game. A similar energy that appears to thread this diverse nation together during large festivals, public protests, and other mass events. But without a doubt, it was difficult being an Aussie in India these last few days.