tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7310688331667357732012-01-27T11:10:04.193-08:00Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.comBlogger1141100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-47955587741203592352012-01-27T11:10:00.000-08:002012-01-27T11:10:04.220-08:00

There comes a time in every sportsman's life, when the spectre of retirement starts to loom large on the horizon. Over time it gets bigger and bigger, and the battle becomes harder and harder. This Goliath however is a smarter cookie than his more famous ancestor. He will lead you to believe you can live to fight another day. Don't be fooled. He hates to see you call it a day when you're

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The first day of the 3rd test against Australia has just ended. The humiliation takes a break for 12 hours. India is on the brink of its overseas test score turning 0-7. If all goes according to form, it will be 0-8 at Adelaide. So pitiful has the display been, that there is no option but for the sword to be drawn. Heads must roll. So who goes? I'd start right at the top. There must be no

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Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-11909122629023248652012-01-05T20:15:00.000-08:002012-01-05T20:15:27.370-08:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-64919669540085384882012-01-05T12:34:00.000-08:002012-01-05T18:04:09.757-08:00

Cricket, when I'd last heard, was still rumoured to be a team sport. It hadn't occurred to even me, a never-say-die analyst of the game, to lay siege to the veracity of this claim. Until recently. In fact it struck me around the time that a James Pattinson bolt took Rahul Dravid's stumps for a long walk - the almost blasphemous thought that this might not be a team game after all. The

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-53497059015820614072011-12-07T01:43:00.001-08:002011-12-07T01:46:00.450-08:00

For more on young Pat's foot, kick... er. click here.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-59897017031480181252011-11-29T23:16:00.001-08:002011-11-29T23:20:21.239-08:00

Scores from the 2-test series between Australia and South Africa, 2011, are below. 1st test 2nd test

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-77584042617397240212011-11-24T10:07:00.001-08:002011-11-24T20:43:35.530-08:00

You'll find more on R. Ashwin's performance on the scorecard. Click here.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-60630896776499518852011-11-18T05:11:00.001-08:002011-11-18T05:18:45.909-08:00

The rest of the scorecard is HERE.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-51516528032236658132011-11-13T18:37:00.001-08:002011-11-13T18:40:10.760-08:00

THE BUCK STOPS HERE. Peter Roebuck (1956-2011)

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-34990221307801699012011-07-25T23:24:00.000-07:002011-07-25T23:30:47.030-07:00

Statistically it's easier to get admission to an IIT than it is to get into the Indian cricket team. But preparing for one is definitely a lot more fun.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-44004118713183782352011-02-27T19:04:00.000-08:002011-02-27T23:06:54.740-08:00

The scorecard.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-55381527907837949092011-02-25T11:09:00.000-08:002011-02-25T11:14:10.729-08:00

The scorecard is HERE.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-50807653153825920752011-02-25T11:04:00.000-08:002011-02-25T11:09:10.296-08:00

The scorecard is HERE.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-44244592145531889232010-12-11T10:47:00.000-08:002010-12-11T10:52:43.783-08:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-6845650786785576372010-11-07T08:09:00.000-08:002010-11-07T08:23:51.193-08:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-7633829038630370902010-09-02T00:42:00.001-07:002010-09-02T00:43:50.910-07:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-29002914595525454922010-06-11T00:00:00.000-07:002010-06-11T00:02:32.743-07:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-79995483812936439732010-04-07T21:59:00.000-07:002010-04-07T23:06:16.067-07:00

How much further will Sreesanth push his luck? He's mocked batsmen. He's mocked bowlers. Now it's the umpire.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-45810586949401176312010-03-14T21:21:00.000-07:002010-03-14T21:23:14.989-07:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-44281465229082086422010-03-12T11:32:00.000-08:002010-03-12T11:35:30.611-08:00

Details of the match are HERE.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-85763228575283030802010-02-24T18:58:00.000-08:002010-02-24T19:00:41.854-08:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-36760262203859759822010-02-03T20:20:00.000-08:002010-02-24T19:03:18.703-08:00

India vs South Africa. February 2010. The series is ready to start, as I hope is Badri's test career.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-76658751409423506922010-01-09T21:01:00.000-08:002010-01-09T21:20:37.711-08:00

For more on the irritation Onions has caused the South Africans in the 09-10 series, click here and here.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-59359959670046407532009-12-30T04:00:00.000-08:002009-12-30T04:03:24.191-08:00

For more details click here.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-47884965746698842622009-12-28T21:51:00.000-08:002009-12-28T21:56:29.696-08:00

Click here for more details on the match.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-16991340182078546642009-12-28T20:10:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:03:08.997-08:00

For more details on the match that wasn't, click.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-79596474807269708482009-12-27T19:38:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:04:43.732-08:00

For more details on the match that wasn't, click.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-45684896030278366142009-12-23T00:56:00.001-08:002009-12-23T00:57:10.994-08:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-43229893961774449312009-12-14T07:57:00.001-08:002009-12-28T22:09:41.464-08:00

Click here for more on the finger.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-50229786414876313432009-12-11T02:08:00.000-08:002009-12-11T02:10:25.190-08:00

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-8049370698954775552009-12-02T22:34:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:16:49.415-08:00

Rahul Dravid's cricket stats are here.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-52731053068870198372009-11-28T22:02:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:19:37.512-08:00

More on the match here.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-20788582968365697412009-11-28T02:37:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:26:39.000-08:00

Click here for more on the match.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-36284360287457473902009-11-18T18:57:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:30:05.482-08:00

It's hard to imagine Sachin was picked on for saying he's an Indian first.Click here for the full story.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-33565643883586067432009-11-16T19:22:00.000-08:002009-12-28T22:14:54.246-08:00

For more on the innings he constructed, click.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-62441088570822972262009-06-19T20:22:00.000-07:002009-06-19T20:31:27.615-07:00

The most predictable team of the T20 World Cup so far, and the most unpredictable of them. Sri Lanka and Pakistan meet for the last match of what's been a terribly boring tournament. (The only lingering memory is of Dhoni turning up at a press conference with his team in tow.)On form, Lanka look like taking it away in a one-sided game.However for the sake of the game in that country, I'm hoping

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-34932248710471500432009-01-06T20:53:00.000-08:002009-01-06T21:06:29.965-08:00

Score a duck and a hundred in the very same match;Now how many players wear this sinusoidal badge?It's a long list with over a hundred over the yearsCenturions and blobs; a funny tale of joy and tears.I've found the list and if you'd like to knowI make you a request, please click, below.BELOW IS HERE.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-40375637744584802912008-11-22T06:21:00.000-08:002009-11-28T23:22:12.557-08:00

8 wise men, they met in a room, to pick the men in blueAnd before they emerged, all was out. But who, who, who?Selectors? Captain? Or coach? Who is the mystery leak?Call in the CBI I say, and let's find that blabbering beak.Or go live on every channel, that's smoking in the air.Give everyone a ear to the door, I think it's only fair.Add a commercial break or two, rake in a million more;Bring in

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-33217382106106891202008-11-21T19:02:00.000-08:002008-11-21T19:12:43.961-08:00

A battered and bruised England will bear testimony to the ferocity of this assault. 138 off 78 balls in the first ODI; 16 fours and 6 sixes included. 118 off 122 in the second with 15 fours and 2 sixes. Numbers that straightaway put Yuvraj at No. 1 in the list of contenders for the test spot vacated by Sourav Ganguly.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-44565098892462506742008-11-18T01:08:00.000-08:002008-11-18T01:34:14.664-08:00

'Twas a downpour of sixes 'n' fours galore;The Poms only clapped, their legs too sore.The crowd went wild, bayed for more blood,And Yuvraj, he obliged with another flood.Just after the game, I heard 'em voices ring;"Singh is King, Singh is King, Singh is King."Pause a moment, consider this irony;The king just lost his vice captaincy.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-12854271249825812132008-11-16T08:26:00.000-08:002008-11-16T09:25:22.060-08:00

Who leaked the email to the press?Who was partying all night before the game?Who got caught?Who did not?Mr. Bhandarkar?Page 3.Corporate.Traffic Signal.Fashion.Cricket?

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-84883350638536410432008-11-10T09:20:00.000-08:002008-11-10T17:26:12.347-08:00

The son that rose in the east 18 years ago, has set.Sourav Chandidas Ganguly retires today from international cricket.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-48721821390464663092008-11-03T18:21:00.000-08:002008-11-03T18:27:13.867-08:00

The Prince of Kol.Jumbo.The Wall?If the runs don't come at Nagpur, we might just see another institution pulling down the shutters.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-36438872308432807972008-11-02T18:48:00.000-08:002008-11-02T19:00:22.454-08:00

In a game inhabited by foul mouths and controversies, he was one who went the other way.Anil Kumble.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-82840701510669316152008-10-01T06:54:00.000-07:002008-10-01T06:57:05.285-07:00

Dilip is out,Krish is in.Dada was out,Now he is in.Don't toast this returnBy the prince of Bong.He'll be doing it againBefore too very long.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-14148626272159551482008-09-24T14:05:00.000-07:002008-10-01T06:58:40.435-07:00

The Aussies are back to defend their prizeWith more young legs, but a little less wise.The great McGrath, Gilly & Warne are out;But look who they've hired to stop a rout.Not Murali, not Mendis as one would thinkBut a selection inspired by many a drink.His first name is Greg, and Chappel the lastAnd that's where he left us in the recent past.Now I'm hoping like hell (have my fingers crossed),That

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-41534833608900081562008-09-08T09:47:00.000-07:002008-09-12T05:09:24.401-07:00

A dashing young batsman was Kevin Pete,Who South African standards didn't meet,So he packed his gear andFlew to his mother's landAnd now the Proteas at his hands are being beat.Click here for more meat on Pete.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-41239948096791537332008-09-08T06:20:00.000-07:002008-09-11T10:51:21.004-07:00

This young Jamaican was trying very hard to be a fast bowler. Till a friend pointed out, that his run-up was quicker than his delivery.So if not a record breaking sprinter, Usain Bolt might have been doing cricket in the Caribbean a few favours.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-7182793779364954862008-09-05T10:40:00.000-07:002008-09-05T10:46:57.342-07:00

He came. He saw. He conquered. He disappeared. He has returned. Sadanand Viswanath.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-33495527133213476652008-08-29T19:54:00.000-07:002008-09-08T06:36:54.437-07:00

Victory finally for the Men in BlueNot 4-1, but a comfortable 3-2No Veeru, no Tendler, no LambuNor the ever reliable Jumbo.Just Dhoni standing tall and true.Leaving all, his absence in the Tests, to rue.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-41264317970288523912008-08-25T20:41:00.000-07:002008-08-25T21:01:03.830-07:00

Lone before Dennis Lillee lost his hair, he lost his head. And if Ajit, Hindi cinema's best loved villain were at the mike, he'd say "Lillee, don't be silly".

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-90955968348975276422008-08-25T18:05:00.000-07:002008-08-25T18:19:33.692-07:00

Looks like Marcus Trescothick was chewing on a lot more than how to handle the Aussie bowlers during the 2005 Ashes series. By his own admission, he gives more credit to Murray Mints than the English bowling line up - Flintoff, Jones and Harmison.More on this Minteresting story here.

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2 medals at the Olympics. Sushil Kumar, a bronze in wrestling, and Vijender Kumar in the boxing ring. The latter has a chance to go on and make a bid for a medal of higher value, as he has assured himself of at least a bronze by reaching the semi-final.On a less important note, the highly overpaid cricketers of this country scraped past a measly Lankan total with just 3 wickets to spare. I hope

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-18573728454428462992008-08-19T20:34:00.000-07:002008-08-19T22:59:26.262-07:00

Remember that bowler named Sree,From beautiful God's own country?At the end of a matchOnly a slap did he catch,At the hands of a gent named Bhajji.Poor Sree, he shed tears galore,And for the cam, wept some more.Some asked for Bhajji's head.Some begged pardon instead.Said 'His passion just came to the fore.'Much remorse to the table did Bhajji bringWhen he sat down with the Judicial Ring.Said "

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-73251466728697219992008-08-18T21:55:00.000-07:002008-08-19T03:20:10.899-07:00

Now there was a man named Singh.Hitting sixes he said was his thing.He once hit six in a row,And earned a few croreNow he's less batsman, more bling.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-16022189189471685642008-08-18T19:59:00.000-07:002008-08-19T02:40:34.660-07:00

Why not?I like the idea of Mallika's forehand going down the line every time someone misfields, bowls a wide, gets out for a duck etc. (Ugly aur Pagli has 99 references to the afore mentioned forehand.)Statutory warning: The boys in blue might just take their eyes off the ball in order to receive a forehand at the hands of this delicious damsel.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-66550877176079615242008-08-18T10:13:00.000-07:002008-08-19T03:21:27.367-07:00

There was a captain named Dhoni.Said, 'I don't play just for the money'.The reasons for our defeat,Can be blamed on tired feetAnd a choc-a-bloc itinerary.The Board came back all flared.'Go if you're tired' they dared.'The IPL was the bestTime for you to restNow let us of your tirade be spared.'So off he went on his much needed breakBut not so long that his wallet would acheThen he'd come back and

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-48199201581264308932008-07-26T20:32:00.000-07:002008-11-06T17:55:19.322-08:00

Sri Lanka 600 for 6. With more centurions than the average Roman regiment.India 223 for 10. Following on, 138 for 10. Ajantha was tremendis. And Murali's balls, well clear of Hair, crashed through Indian reputations and defences with predictable regularity.Mendis finished with 8. Murali finished with 11. And India were well, just finished.We come back again in a few days for another contest

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-34767803371986808352008-07-09T20:02:00.000-07:002008-07-09T20:23:51.759-07:00

With a grip on the cherry similar to that used by tweakers in the tennis ball version of the game, Ajantha Mendis is the latest virus willow wielders are facing up to. He's turned the ball, Sri Lanka's fortunes and a few batting averages the other way. Never has rush hour traffic back to the Indian dressing room been observed with a spinner operating.And going by Ajantha's Asia Cup heroics on a

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-39542391362587420592008-06-24T19:02:00.000-07:002008-11-06T17:55:19.563-08:00

This day, 25 years ago, they turned world champions of cricket.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-32993470495523734442008-05-14T20:09:00.000-07:002008-05-15T00:17:15.460-07:00

4 overs1 maiden9 runs1 wicketShaun Pollock for the Mumbai Indians against the Chennai Super Kings.Incidentally, he's retired from international cricket. As they say, it's a funny game.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-22008199761645768302008-05-13T21:07:00.000-07:002008-05-13T21:34:01.417-07:00

The team's performance in cricket's summer slam has pasted a big, bold 'UNCOOL' on brand Royal Challenge. And Mr. Mallya's performance in going public with internal affairs only adds a bad taste.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-70881501954481307832008-04-27T22:36:00.001-07:002008-11-06T17:55:19.760-08:00

If Bhajji and Sree are brothers like they profess, we ought to call the latter Santhakumaran Sreesanth Singh. Or Santa Singh?

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-74684176200410610252008-04-27T18:54:00.000-07:002008-04-27T22:33:20.693-07:00

There's a line of defense going around saying Bhajji was provoked to play his forehand in the vicinity of Sreesanth's ear. Personally I haven't heard anything more stupid. As far as I remember, taking the law into your own hands is still a crime in this country. And if the BCCI won't oblige Sreesanth might want to refer the matter to the nearest cop coop.Meanwhile the farcical drama to save

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-88379083229982776592008-04-24T11:02:00.000-07:002008-04-24T11:19:24.399-07:00

The game seems to be further loaded in favour of batsmen. The boundaries are shorter.The tables have turned. India now has the phirangs(cheerleaders) dancing for them.The cheerleaders look fine, but the camera angles don't.Sledging might become less prevalent. It's hard to be friendly team mates one day, and then be abusive opponents on another.Cricket is taking on baseball hues. Finesse, style,

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-27480411796535163982008-04-07T19:02:00.001-07:002008-11-06T17:55:20.441-08:00

I understand the theory of not mixing politics and sports, but I fail to understand its application with regard to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The world's largest sporting event will earn a huge sum of money for the Chinese Government. And as you know the bullets being pumped into Tibet don't come free.Whose side are you on?If it's China, you don't have to go any further than this.If it's Tibet,

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-46905473423100666392008-04-01T20:13:00.000-07:002008-04-01T20:26:20.551-07:00

Keeping in mind the number of bans issued and reversed by the Pakistan cricket board in recent times, please vote on the question below.How long will the latest ban on Shoaib Akhtar last?a) 5 yearsb) 5 monthsc) 5 weeksd) 5 days

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-19257316294769865232008-03-28T22:24:00.000-07:002008-03-28T23:22:25.564-07:00

Can the BCCI deny a man the right to earn a living? I'm not so sure, but the board seems pretty confident that it can. The witch hunt to make every one of the ICL signees pay, for taking the road not travelled, has hit a new high.The BCCI has objected to Mushtaq Ahmed and Rana Naved-ul-Hasan being given a NOC by the Pakistan board to play county cricket in 2008. And they're pulling all strings to

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-58346618261206361912008-03-24T00:01:00.000-07:002008-03-24T23:26:02.654-07:00

Much anticipation heralds the start of the India vs South Africa series beginning in Chennai later this month. The ghost of the series down under is slowly being laid to rest. Fading from memory is a series that was as forgettable as it was unforgettable, and looming large on the horizon are the hulking figures of Graeme Smith and company.I believe this is going to be a much harder series for

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-77231455980008301462008-03-22T19:58:00.000-07:002008-03-22T20:03:42.900-07:00

I heard this line in defence of the Lankan offie just after Darrel Hair called Murali for chucking.HAIR OR NO HAIR, MURALI'S BALLS ARE CLEAN.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-51225738194528106072008-03-18T19:55:00.000-07:002008-03-20T00:15:31.283-07:00

Uprooted. Treated. Now planted back again. Darrel Hair has been reinstated by the ICC and will return to umpiring at the head of international cricket. Cricket's governing body claims that Hair has successfully completed a 6-month 'rehabilitation' period. Substance abuse? Gosh no! Hair is as clean as a bald man's pate. It's what the aggrieved country claims to be abuse of power. Remember, Hair

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-79983145632030993282008-03-13T23:53:00.000-07:002008-03-14T00:01:02.160-07:00

Ricky Ponting must be a relieved man. He won't have to face Ishant Sharma till the next India-Australia series. Both will represent the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.Viewers on the other hand have been denied a kick-ass contest. And one sided as it would have been, it's always great fun to see a well walloped Aussie rear.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-59070745112670790872008-03-11T08:55:00.000-07:002008-03-11T09:09:55.648-07:00

I just caught here that Australia's tour to Pakistan has been postponed due to security reasons. And as usual the mind begins to wander. And wonder.Security concerns with able-bodied bouncers like Symmo on board?

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-44890209696254731002008-03-10T20:02:00.000-07:002008-11-06T17:55:20.799-08:00

This picture has been doing the rounds online. It seems to explain Yuvraj's fleeting visits to the crease, Dinesh's absence from the playing eleven and Robin's barely there double-digit average, in the series down under. Heh... heh... heh... Never mind. We won. Heh... heh... heh...

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-78811167586700637682008-03-09T18:54:00.000-07:002008-03-09T18:59:27.721-07:00

With all their attention focussed on teaching Harbhajan Singh a lesson, the Aussies missed something. The 10 others in the Indian team.And when they awoke they also found a trophy missing from their cabinet.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-89199780587625527112008-03-04T08:08:00.000-08:002008-11-06T17:55:21.079-08:00

First it was their behaviour. Next their cricket. I'm loving it. I'm Indian.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-48321705610136374012008-03-04T07:42:00.001-08:002008-11-06T17:55:21.273-08:00

For an entire summer, it's been the topic of debate - Symonds' gentlemanly qualities on the cricket field. Today his full bodied tackle of a streaker half his size, clarified it all.Which makes me wonder.What did the the men in blue have to handle through the series from this barbarian? You'll agree there's nothing gentle about Andrew Symonds apart from his off-spin.And guess what, I finally

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-17460324577365268492008-03-02T06:42:00.001-08:002008-11-06T17:55:21.814-08:00

For he's a jolly good fellowAnd he's a jolly good fellowAnd he's a jolly good fellowAND SO SAY ALL OF US!

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-45478249630059159682008-02-19T18:57:00.000-08:002008-02-19T19:05:25.135-08:00

After watching Dhoni put his match winning fifty together yesterday, I had this unmistakeable sense of deja vu.And then it came to me.Javed Miandad.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-76230556150854684482008-01-29T08:32:00.000-08:002008-01-29T08:37:39.708-08:00

Bastard can be forgiven.Monkey cannot.This can only happen in Australia.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-22067423019284354292008-01-29T07:57:00.000-08:002008-01-29T08:09:13.054-08:00

Bhajji went from a 3.3 offense to 2.8, and from a 3 test ban to losing 50% of his match fee.Symonds went from being equally involved in the words exchanged to being let off scot free. That's the same offense for which Bhajji was fined.Who, tell me, is the respected judge in this court? I'd like to press a charge of racial discrimination.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-74156954881941208492008-01-20T19:16:00.000-08:002008-01-20T20:44:52.414-08:00

On January 21, 2007Sachin T145 test matches235 innings11616 runsSachin's latest statsAnil K124 test matches223 innngs603 wicketsAnil's latest statsNow I'd like to apply the popularly accepted conversion of wickets to runs.5 wickets = 100 runsSo Anil Kumble's 603 puts him a tad over 12000 runs, which is a few tads more than Sachin Tendulkar in a few less matches.I've just cast my vote on who I

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-49761997094435954272008-01-07T19:44:00.000-08:002008-11-06T17:55:22.206-08:00

Much has been said in the last few days about racism in cricket. Fingers have been pointed and decisions handed out. Opinions are everywhere. Culprits of the past have magically transformed into upholders of everything sacred, as they sermonise from the safety of the commentary box.However, brushed under the carpet amidst the charge of racism is an equally important issue. Dishonesty, or to put

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-40458158149670892752008-01-07T01:48:00.000-08:002008-01-07T02:12:07.782-08:00

It's amply clear from these 2 videos that Ponting's claim that the Aussies play 'fair and hard' is a load of nonsense. It also places conclusive evidence on the table of Ponting's high standards of honesty. He ought to be recommended for sainthood.Saint Ponting. How does that sound?I like Icky Ponting better.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-85218856985816951972008-01-06T22:38:00.000-08:002008-01-06T23:40:27.581-08:00

The Aussies seem to think they play fair and hard. Match referees seem to agree. What do you think?Slater vs DravidMcGrath vs SarwanSymonds vs PathanGreig puts McGrath on the spotThe Australian media point of viewAnd finally a funny look at it all

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-21702273581322052802008-01-06T18:12:00.000-08:002008-01-06T18:22:32.914-08:00

The Australian team may have lost Warne and McGrath to retirement but they've discovered new talent from entirely unexpected quarters. Bucknor and Benson.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-29258078385833037262008-01-06T17:44:00.000-08:002008-01-06T18:09:13.162-08:00

TV replays threw up a lot of doubts. But Michael 'pup' Clarke had none. Then Ponting raised the finger. Benson nodded. And Ganguly returned reluctantly.Earlier it was Ponting. A ball comes off Dhoni's pad. Ponting dives to catch it. Appeals. Replays show the ball touching the grass as he landed. Ponting appeals again. This time on behalf of his integrity.Seems quite apt that Clarke is slated to

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-22970298660449332202008-01-06T08:23:00.000-08:002008-01-06T08:32:18.020-08:00

I simply fail to understand why Andrew Symonds was declared the man-of-the-match in the second test at Sydney. He contribution to Australia's victory was marginal when compared to some others on the field.In my humble opinion the 2 men whose performances turned the game on its head are Steve Bucknor and Mark Benson. Surely they deserve the prize.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-40508247513521128522007-12-31T20:22:00.000-08:002007-12-31T20:29:00.484-08:00

2007 is history now. The memories of the first test loss to Australia aren't. In just under 4 days, India were 1 down. If not anything else that gave them an extra day before the start of the next on a crowded tour.I'm not sure I'm looking forward to the next test. I wonder if anyone on the team is. Happy New Year?

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-52019094208430961872007-12-20T19:17:00.000-08:002007-12-20T19:38:21.418-08:00

Looks like 'CHUCK DE' might still happen. The Express from Rawalpindi famous for throwing tantrums among other things round and red, has apparently signed up a Bollywood flick. Ho, ho, ho. It's called Mein aur Meri Himmat and will be directed by Sanghamita Chaudhri. Let's give her a big hand, and a bravery award.You have to read this.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-17646632771982565822007-12-14T17:12:00.000-08:002007-12-14T19:26:44.850-08:00

We know that Sreesanth won't be running in Down Under when the first test commences on Boxing Day (Dec 26). But he's all set to bowl for his home state in a Ranji Trophy game which starts a day earlier. Doesn't look like a shoulder injury does it?Click here for more on this smelly rat.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-52004946552387188652007-12-13T22:52:00.000-08:002007-12-13T23:30:07.272-08:00

Zaheer Khan. RP Singh. Ishant Sharma. Irfan Pathan. Pankaj Singh. The Indian pace attack does look a little raw but that can be remedied with a positive attitude and due diligence. People win Grand Slams in their teens, so I really don't see age being a reason for an average performance.That's one aspect of the duel on hand. The other is the war of words. (Andrew Symonds must be licking his lips

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-53780876122928090402007-12-09T07:33:00.000-08:002007-12-12T19:53:47.896-08:00

He's the only reason my mother watches cricket.He's my dad's only example when he talks about Indian cricketers who have displayed evidence of a backbone.He is the drift of conversation in our living room when the finest innings by an Indian is discussed - standing on the balcony at Lords, bare top, shirt in the air, Flintoff 1 - Dada 2.So if there's anyone celebrating Sourav Chandidas Ganguly's

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-25284093020778155172007-12-08T19:33:00.000-08:002007-12-08T19:48:03.661-08:00

In the final lap of their careers, Murali and Kumble have firmly pushed Shane Warne to second place. Murali's got ahead in wickets. Kumble's scored a century, and now leads India.Barmaids? Now that's a different story.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-72923637050590254642007-12-05T21:35:00.000-08:002007-12-05T21:56:00.318-08:00

James Anderson carries the cross as Sanath Jayasuriya signs off in style.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-14980896590684491562007-12-04T21:28:00.000-08:002007-12-04T21:47:12.185-08:00

The ICL may have started, but it hasn't quite taken off. The attempt at cooking up excitement for the TV audience falls flat without a doubt. Shrieking commentators, unknown players, rehearsed celebrations, a 7000 crowd, a Kareena show. It all looks like a carefuly choreographed effort. Even the parts that are supposed to look spontaneous.It's obvious that the best efforts, deep pockets and noble

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-30563360316452210062007-12-03T02:59:00.000-08:002007-12-03T03:04:44.235-08:00

As Sourav Ganguly nears 6000 runs in test cricket, I cannot help but wonder how many more he would've had if only he showed a little more enthusiasm in running between wickets.

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-40364352809643872682007-12-01T04:13:00.000-08:002007-12-01T04:50:33.176-08:00

The man under pressure to perform, once the Eden Gardens was named as a venue for a test against Pakistan, was always going to be the curator. What he laid out on the 22 yard strip in the middle was going to decide the longevity of a cricketing career or two, and in turn his own. You see, Dada hadn't scored a ton in 4 years, and has been at best wobbling along on the unsure support of 30s, 40s

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731068833166735773.post-11801839594055718912007-11-28T06:29:00.000-08:002007-11-28T06:44:39.240-08:00

One man survived by marching to the Prince of Kolkatta's tunes.Left, Wright, Left, Wright, Left, Wright...Another refused, and marched out a little later.Aye Gary bhai, zara dekh-ke chalo.Aage bhi captain hai, peechey bhi...

Manoj Jacobhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13261334214076628465noreply@blogger.com0