Champions Trophy

In the end, the outcome was familiar. The Australians clinically dismantled other mortal-filled teams to lift the elusive Champions Trophy. When they lost the first game, people suspected weakness, but some like yours truly, saw a repeat of the DLF cup in the offing. The Australians have finally managed to acquire the only missing stone in their star studded tiara. They now return home, with a fresh boost of confidence, to win back the ashes that they lost to the over hyped British.

But the most embarrasing fact was that none of the sub-continental teams even showed a resemblance of a fight as they capitulated in the league games. Pakistan, were dealt with a serious blow even before the first ball was bowled as their premier bowlers were sidelined for drug abuse. SriLanka, despite their stellar performance against the Windies in the opening nonsensical qualifying games surrendered tamely when it came to the real deal.

Not long ago, India set the record for most number of consecutive run chases in ODI history. Some thought that India had peaked too early, now most people think the same. There weren't many positives to write away from the tournament. They beat a lacklustre English side, had a close finish with Windies due to the visitors magnaminity and then got blown away in the decider against Australia. But I have faith in Greg Chappel to instill energy into this sapping team and get them in shape before they venture into the carribean islands.

However, I was very happy with the low scoring close games. It was a refreshing change from the games of last 3 years where scoring 300 had become a norm. Finally, the bowlers seemed to get surfaces which offered them some parity against the heavy hitters and oppressive field restrictions. I hope the champions trophy inspires curators and boards around the world to offer such sporting pitches.

On a different note, a champions trophy of a different kind was being played out on the fields of Buena Park, CA this weekend, as the Association for India's Developement, Los Angeles chapter organised its first fund-raising event. 8 enthusiastic teams took part in this noble cause as we tried to raise closed to $2,500 from this event. In the best game of the weekend Torrance Tigers chased 98 in 12 overs against Vernon City Rex. The contest heats up next weekend as we reach the knock outs and the competition becomes fierce. For those in Southern California, do drop in, there is no entrance fees!!