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On cricket

This refers to the article "It isn't cricket" (March 22). The `fans' who perform pujas and ransack players' houses do not represent the Indian fans. They indulge in such acts to see their faces on television. If the media do not send their cameramen to the spot, no puja will be performed. Nor will any vandalism take place. Wide coverage and discussions encourage `fans' to go berserk time and again.

B.R. Iniyavan,
Bangalore

* * *

Cricket fans are no different from film fans. Many years ago, fans of Tamil actor Khushboo built a temple for her. In 2005, her house was attacked because she expressed her opinion on pre-marital sex in an interview to a magazine. Similarly, cricket fans conducted pujas for the victory of Team India. But the moment it lost a match, they damaged M.S. Dhoni's house under construction. I would like to know what action has been taken against the offenders.

S. Charuhasan,
Chennai

* * *

The World Cup is meant to strengthen ties and foster mutual appreciation among cricket-playing nations. A disproportionate emotional involvement in the game leads to ugly incidents such as burning the effigies of unsuccessful players and ransacking their homes. The attitude of considering defeat a blow to the national prestige exerts the kind of pressure that has taken Bob Woolmer's life. It is not victory or defeat but goodwill and friendliness that should form the basis of competitive sport.

M. Vathapureeswaran,
Erode

* * *

The media, both print and electronic, are playing virtually a destructive role by bringing undue pressure on cricketers. They carry on a continuous analysis of what went wrong in a match by seeking the opinion of everyone on the street. More than any of us, the players would have felt pained and embarrassed at their defeat against Bangladesh. The need of the hour is to cheer them. The media should calm down and let the players play their natural game.

Ananthi Santhaiyan,
Mumbai

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