Opinion Taking chances
In Playing the political game,C. Raja Mohan has drawn a credible roadmap for Indo-Pak ties.
Taking chances
* In Playing the political game (IE,March 29),C. Raja Mohan has drawn a credible roadmap for Indo-Pak ties. Cricket diplomacy can only be an icebreaker. To achieve tangible results,both countries have to get rid of mistrust and mind games. They need to seize upon the initiatives already taken for removing the knots in bilateral relations and declare that they are determined to turn the page regardless of opposition.
Tarsem Singh,New Delhi
Line & strength
* Apropos Playing the political game,the writer has tried to dissect Manmohan Singhs effort to improve relations with Pakistan by inviting their leadership to the India versus Pakistan match at Mohali. Such personal initiatives can generate hope but may also end with a whimper. Its a well-calculated move which may actually pay off. Two examples reveal the delicateness of such initiatives. Former Egyptian President Anwar Sadats flying to Tel Aviv to address the Knesset was a bold move,which did pay off. However,former British PM Neville Chamberlains dash to meet Adolf Hitler was a misfired shot. One hopes well for the Singh-Gilani meeting.
John Alexander,Nagpur
Ready pitch
* Your editorial Fever pitch (IE,March 28) rightly says
that India vs Pakistan cricket matches are among the most charged events in the world. The Mohali semi-final would therefore be more exciting than the final. Cricket is a game of uncertainty,prediction is mere speculation. It augurs well for both countries that the prime ministers are scheduled to be together. Hopefully,when it strikes 11 on the night of March 30,the Indian team will be all set to travel to Mumbai for the final and India and Pakistan having moved one step towards better relations.
M.C. Joshi,Lucknow
Best bets
*This refers to Pak minister warns his team: Keeping eye on match-fixing (IE,March 29). Betting is gambling,but so are stock and commodity markets and lotteries where people bet on trends and results. Legalising betting has several advantages such as generating revenue for government and better control of the proceeds from sports. It may also eliminate match-fixing,thus bringing transparency to the activities of bookies and punters.
S.N. Kabra,Mumbai
Fever tab
* A welcome statement has come from Pakistans team manager that India and Pakistan are going to play a game and not wage a war. It is now the responsibility of the spectators at the stadium to maintain the spirit of the game. There is bound to be only one winner. Players gestures after taking a wicket or hitting an over-boundary should also be dignified.
K.L. Khandekar,Vadodara
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