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Journalism of Courage
The subcontinental association with cricket runs so deep that the very existence of the game these days 8212; much of it related to the financial aspect of it 8212; seems to be in the hands of those who run the sport in this part of the world. But surprisingly, money, passion and zeal apart, the subcontinent, or rather one face from this region, is now fast emerging as the pacifier or the peace-maker in world cricket. And that face is of Ranjan Madugalle.
The stylish former Sri Lankan batsman made a smooth transition from being a player during Sri Lanka8217;s fledgling days in world cricket to being one of the most respected match referees of the world. And now, donning the hat of the International Cricket Council8217;s chief referee, he has some serious counselling to do with the richest and the best teams in the world at loggerheads halfway though their Test series.
This is not the first time that Madugalle has been brought in to defuse a situation that has spun out of control and threatened a tour. The infamous Oval fiasco, which led to umpire Darrell Hair being demoted from the top flight of international cricket, was also overseen by him, though he could not fly down to London immediately following the incident due to personal problems.
But what makes Madugalle ICC8217;s favourite and most reliable agony aunt? Is it because he can be stern yet affable? Is it because he is 8216;trusted8217; by players, officials and also the media? It is not as if he has been above reproach. Madugalle has been often criticised, and at times with good reason, that in his effort to appear fair he has been unduly harsh on players from the subcontinent. But the fact remains that he has been able to smoothen the feathers he did ruffle and is now looked upon as a senior statesman who can uphold the very ethos of the game.
Maybe Madugalle is an extension of the idea that the eminent umpire Dickie Bird had. According to Bird, players don8217;t necessarily mind if an umpire makes a mistake as long as they can trust him enough to know that it was done without any malice. That is, they are ready to accept and forgive an honest human error. Perhaps Madugalle too has that kind of an image now, that of a man who sits in judgment without any preconceived notions.
The Sri Lankan is known to be friendly with the media 8212; his strong point being that he never forgets a name or a face. And unlike many of his colleagues, Madugalle can be counted upon to take any call and clarify a point or give out information which is pertinent, and thus put an end to unnecessary speculation and kite-flying. But journalists who trudge to his doorstep looking for a scoop are inevitably in for disappointment.
Maybe that is why the ICC wants him around to deal with prickly situations, having the faith that he is the best man for the job. And with him, the subcontinent is also emerging as not only the financial backbone of the game, but also the guardian of its spirit.
elora.senexpressindia.com
