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Gentleman’s game?

There was a time when cricket was known as a gentleman’s game. It is a matter of serious concern that the world’s most civilised game is fraught with racism which is spilling over from the field to the crowds. The crowd behaviour of cricket fans has also reflected racist trends. It is imperative that cricket bodies come up with clear guidelines to combat the menace that is turning out to be a dampener for a sport that is popular across the world.

Md. Ziyaullah Khan,

Pune Introduction of technology such as instant replays, hawk-eye and Snickometer have actually ruined the game and the charm that lies in its uncertainty. In days gone by, an umpire’s decision was accepted with grace and without dissent. Players when given out coolly walked back to the pavilion. To bring back the glorious uncertainty of the game, the authorities should think of doing away with neutral umpires and all the technology gimmicks.

K. Venkataraman,

Mumbai

Aussies are the masters of sledging. They explained it as part of their game and asked visiting teams to be mentally tough enough to face it. Now that they have started getting a taste of their medicine, they are behaving like a child who has lost his candy.

Thushar Thomas,

Bangalore

I am an old-time cricketer. India has a very strong team but it also has a terrible attitude problem. We are very poor losers. We are sadly misled and badly hyped by some of our supporters who will destroy the game and its international standing. It is a shame that we are also badly served by some sections of the media.

Jacob Chakko,

Bangalore

With too many controversies in the air, cricket is losing its charm in the eyes of millions. The spirit of the game — to bring countries together — is far from achieved.

Kavya Kumar,

Chennai

Be it poor umpiring or expression of dissent by players — it has lowered the respect that cricket had years ago. Cricket is not just about a bat, ball or wicket. It is also about respect players should have for one another. It is about applauding a batsman’s or bowler’s valiant efforts. But what we get to see today is players questioning umpire’s decisions. Aggression is part of cricket but abusing or gesturing to one another is not.

Aniket Singh,

Mohali

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Gentleman’s game?

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