A STAR IS BORN
The title of this post has no relationship whatsoever, with the hit Hollywood move of 1970 in which Barbara Steisand and Christopher shared acting honors.This post is meant to highlight the sports policy of India in general and of Goa, in particular.To begin with, let me make a reference to a young and energetic cricket player, Paul Valuthaty of Kings XI Punjab. This hitherto unknown and unsung player has no stupendous experience and, played only one List-A match for Mumbai in 2006. But on April 13, 2011 this lad redefined cricket history with a blistering and unbeaten knock of 120 runs off only 63 deliveries. Kings XI Punjab then set the pulse racing with a significant six wicket victory over defending champions Chennai Super Kings in the fourth edition of the popular IPL. Again on April 16, 2011 Paul Valthaty hit five sixes and eight boundaries to score 75 runs in just 47 balls agaisnt Deccan Chargers. He also excelled as a seamer with commendable figure of 4-29 to romp home with a deserving victory. In India, we have many talented sportsmen and women but, unfortunately due to lack of exposure and support such talents never see the light of the day. The cricket ex-coach of India Chappel had also confirmed this phenomenon to media on several occasions. And, the proverbial last straw on camel's back is the political clout. The first IPL edition was won by the unfashionable Rajasthan Royals. And our very own Goan cricket hero Swapnil Asonadkar was treated to a royal welcome at the Dabollim airport. But when the Chennai Super Kings won the third edition of the IPL and, also the Champions League Trophy in South Africa our only Goan cricket hero Jakati was received at the Dabolim airport by his parents and a few of his relatives.Now, the less said the better. Such discrimination in the sports policy should be thrown to winds and importance must be given to deserving and talented sportsmen irrespective of caste, creed and religion.Only when Goans display their unity with resoluteness then we can prodly proclaim, A STAR IS BORN tobrighten the Goan skies. Ignatius Dias Agassaim/U.A.E.
