It has been a long time since I wrote. It has also been a long time since the USADA denounced Lance Armstrong a cheat. While I am now doing something about the former, I am yet to get over the latter. Millions of people have idolized the iconic cyclist, millions have patronized his foundation by proudly donning a yellow Livestrong wristband, millions have been given strength and inspiration by his victory over cancer, a victory of epic proportions hitherto unmatched. (If Yuvraj Singh can win seven Cricketer of the Year awards, that would come pretty close. But Lance did it first) And those millions got, through various sources, the textual equivalent of a slap on the face.
The case against Armstrong is, well, strong. Witnesses close to him have come forth and testified. But bear in mind that Armstrong never tested positive in his career. The USADA has, in turn, accused him of taking substances that show up in the bloodstream only for 12 hours, and imagine athletes being called in for testing every twelve hours. Armstrong declined to contest the decision, an indication, according to some, that he is guilty. To me, it only means he is tired of fighting it out in court year after year. This saga has been on for too long. Guilty or not, it is best to stop fighting when a board is determined to expose you as a villain. But if he is guilty, the best thing to do is to come out and admit it, as the world 'knows' it anyway.
Cut to a sport closer home. The series win against New Zealand was a bittersweet one. We all know that it is far easier to win at home than away, and all we have discovered through the series is that our boys are comfortable playing on pitches they have played on all their lives. We have found two new duos - Kohli-Pujara and Ashwin-Ojha - who may be the safe hands the future of Indian cricket needs. But there is one conundrum we are better off leaving to the Mensa.
Should Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar continue being on the team lists? He has occupied a place in them for over 20 years; is he being selfish or self-assured, in holding his place in the team? When he has just been bowled three times in a row after a long time, when his footwork is looking less refined, when his ton of tons refuse to stop being celebrated, what should he do? Many are saying he should play as long as he enjoys the game, but I'm sure someone like Sunil Gavaskar does not love cricket any less. I feel he should give his bat a rest forever when he feels he is giving the team less than a possible replacement could. I am no one to judge - he should decide. Let us all pray that he decides right.
