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Cricket knows no barrier. Cricket is a great leveler : Dalmiya |
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April 9, 2000
Dhaka, Apr 8 (UNB) – “Cricket knows no barrier. Cricket is a great leveler,” says International Cricket Council President Jagmohan Dalmiya.
The observation of the world cricket boss came while commenting over players of arch rivals -- India and Pakistan -- in the same team facing the world eleven at Bangabandhu National Stadium here today.
The Calcutta-based Indian was replying to a question of TV commentator Pakistani Ramij Raza who wanted to know how Dalmiya looks at players of three countries of the sub-continent in the same team.
The spectators who had to manage tickets with great difficulties because of heavy rush were also thrilled to see cricketers of feuding India and Pakistan in the same side. “It’s a great experience that Sachin and Jaysuriya are opening the innings. It’s really exciting to see that Saurav Ganguly is playing under the captaincy of Wasim Akram,” said Ahsanul Karim who thronged the big bowl from city’s Mirpur. The entire stadium burst into cheers amidst thunderous applause when little master Sachin Tendulkar and swashbuckling batsman Sanath Jaysuriya came to open the innings of the Asia Eleven. Thousands of spectators continued claps and cheers on every run and boundary hammered by the two great openers. They, however, were shocked when the partnership ended with team’s total 49. Jayasuria was caught on 12 in 16 balls. Ahead of beginning of the mega show of cricket between the Asia Eleven and Rest of World Eleven, Dalmiya once again viewed that Bangladesh should get the test status. “They have everything. The government is providing full cooperation. The cricket board is fully prepared,” the ICC boss said about giving test status to Bangladesh. It is highly expected that Bangladesh will join as the 10th member of elite test nations in the ICC meeting in next June. Dalmiya also appreciated the crowd of Bangladesh. “Fifty thousand spectators have gathered at the stadium. Another 50 thousand or more is waiting outside. They have great enthusiasm.” |