They returned like wounded soldiers

I never thought I would see the day when cricketers would return in the arms of their families as soldiers often do after a protracted battle at the front.

I never thought I would see the day when cricketers would return in the arms of their families as soldiers often do after a protracted battle at the front. But,sadly,this is what I saw today when the Sri Lankan team returned home from Lahore.

I,as a former cricketer and board official,have often been confronted by the security issue in Pakistan. Last year,as president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC),I took the call for the Asia Cup to be held in Pakistan. It wasnt an easy decision but the assurances from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB),in consultation with the government,were comforting.

The Asia Cup passed off without a hiccup. I am not sure how the security issue between the Sri Lankan board and its Pakistan counterparts was handled this time around. A lot of uncomfortable questions would now be asked.

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The next big issue confronting cricket in the sub-continent is on hand. IPL is just a few weeks away. Foreign cricketers,in particular,would be questioning if the enormous sum of money on offer could replace the anxiety of family and sanguine advice of their managers. Such issues invite a herd-like reaction from human beings. Cricketers are no different.

A few walkouts,I fear,could open floodgates. And before you realise,the wheels of cricket would come to a stop. The Indian cricket board and their government must present an unified,determined stance to the world. Their intent and urgency is the key. Any dithering would only add to the insecurity of the visiting cricketers. The issue is still hot. I hope it would cool down in the next few days. Cricketers and administrators can then think and decide with a clear mind. Cricket,especially in the sub-continent,cant afford to take another hit.

In the last few hours,I have watched the return of Mahela Jayawardene and his boys to the homeland. Looking at the anxiety,tears and relief on the face of their families was overpowering. Cricket and war are now being talked in the same breadth. Its a sinking feeling,but we must rise together and take on this menace which confronts our game.