SANTA'S GIFTS


Come December 26, and cricket fans in India will have an early start to their morning. The reason; the first day of the First Test between India and Australia, at the glorious MCG.

With the Christmas spirit still hanging heavy in the air, we will all look forward to receiving a gift from the good old Santa. And talking of gifts, I’m expecting a few in the coming three months. For once, let the touring Indian side play Santa. Sounds apocryphal, isn't it?

Never mind. Read on.

#1
The most awaited Hundred.

The best Christmas gift for all the billion cricket fans back home, and more importantly, Sachin Tendulkar fans, would be the master’s elusive 100th century. Could there be any better place for this Gladiator than the MCG, or any of the spectacular Australian grounds, to reach this milestone? 


#2
Youngsters creating magic.

This series will lay bare the young talent this country has to offer. It will be a litmus test for the ‘cubs’. Youngsters, in whom the selectors have put in their faith. It’ll differentiate the men from the boys. Young guns like Kohli, R. Ashwin, Ojha and a few others, will re-discover cricket at the highest level. Playing against the backdrop of your home crowd can act as a testosterone to one’s confidence. But Down Under, it’s a totally different ball game. I just hope they live up to the expectations.

#3
VVS Laxman’s Very Very Special knock.

No Australia series is complete without a praiseworthy performance by this veteran. A sublime century (or double) by VVS Laxman is an essential on the menu.  Australia has always been his favourite hunting ground. And so is the opposition.


#4
Dhoni lifting the Gavaskar-Border Trophy.

This would be the crescendo. Beating the Aussies in their own backyard. England proved that during the last Ashes tour. I never said it’s easy, but not impossible either.

So this is my wishlist. Cynics might laugh at me. But what the heck! 

Optimism and self-belief pays. The Indian team just proved that on April 2, 2011. 

Mr. Santa, are you reading?


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