Weekend Musings: Lessons from IPL 2020

My fondness for cricket is hardly a secret. So I was excited when BCCI finally announced IPL 2020 in early September, after months of delay. I had been waiting for this not only to satiate my inner cricket fanatic but also because of the welcome break it presented from all the negativity that surrounds us. Just as the Pandemic united us in worry, I believe IPL unites us in cheer. Sitting on the sofa, rooting for my favorite teams is one of the best ways to relax. Seeing how the sport connects us disregarding all differences and tying us together with fervor and team spirit always leaves me feeling refreshed.

Despite the challenges, this year’s IPL has not only been the most challenging, but also tremendously interesting- probably one of the best in more than 12 years, if I may say so! The first three weeks themselves were filled with such a heavy dose of entertainment, dozens of awe-inspiring and a good amount of nail-biting moments. Be it the hailstorm of sixes, the explosive overs, super-human fielding abilities, and records being broken. The iconic save from Nicholas Pooran- said to be the best ever save  in the history of cricket- was simply breath-taking. Witnessing the players perform so actively with oodles of enthusiasm, despite having the same amount of worry as the rest of us, has been nothing short of inspirational. No doubt they say that the best innovations happen at the worst of times- and the innovations that we saw this time certainly were the best!

The credit certainly goes to everyone- from the players, the BCCI, the event management companies, broadcasting groups, and the array of staff members and workers. Living under a bio-security bubble to be able to engage in your passion, while keeping the safety of everyone as the top priority, shows a splendid amount of dedication. It is also astounding to hear the perfectly synchronized sound effects specially created to encourage the sportspersons and keeping the viewing experience as authentic as possible. Not only this, there are so many new inventions getting developed to make sure the restrictions don’t dampen the spirit of the game. One of these- an LED wall with live projections of supporters- is in plans specifically to keep the fans connected to their beloved sports stars and not miss out on being able to support them. The wonders that can be achieved through technology fill me with a sense of pride to be part of this ecosystem.

Apart from all the electrifying moments of entertainment the game offers, another reason I’m so engrossed with cricket is due to the immense amount of life lessons it imparts. One can never watch a single match without feeling energized and deeply motivated. IPL 2020 is no different. The first week in itself brought so many leadership lessons that can be implemented by each of us. There cannot be a better example on how to value each team member, harness each of their strengths, and guide the team to splendid victories through a turmoil filled environment. I will never be able to cease taking inspiration from IPL and cricket in general to be a better leader, team member, and an individual.

Since the time IPL started, it has been a blessing to our country. The fast-paced cricket contest put India on the global radar right from its inception. It has provided an extraordinary platform for our talented Indian players. Along with this, there has been a significant boom in the tourism and hospitality industry. Besides, the contributions towards boosting the GDP, with the massive amount of money that flows in, can surely not be discounted. For all this, I’m very grateful to IPL and my appreciation goes out to the dedicated efforts from hundreds of people who made it possible, even amidst this global crisis. The fan in me thinks it’s time to settle in for my much-needed cricket fix. So, with a sense of appreciation and a great amount of excitement, I will take my humble exit to seat myself on the couch, ready to cheer for Delhi Capitals- my home team. But being a Dhoni fan, I am always torn between the two teams when they compete!