Much more than cricket at stake

Every Indo-Pak match is billed as another Kargil, a view that cannot be disputed. But this time the weather and India's form is of serious concern, writes Amrit Mathur.

Going into the game at Birmingham three questions are up in the air. Basic question: Jitega kaun? Even more fundamental issue: Match hoga? And the third one: Kya Sehwag chalega? Of course, there are no clear answers even as furious debates rage in pubs (conversation fuelled by lager) and in restaurants where animated and agitated patrons chew on spicy balti gosht and express themselves freely.Much depends on rain and Birmingham at present is grey, gloomy, depressing and dark. But things change rapidly here and the mausam vibhaag is as reliable as the one headquartered on Lodhi Road. The ICC has its fingers crossed because if this match is washed off there is serious financial trouble on the horizon.The form of the Indian team is another cause for concern. Its recent performance has been thanda like the English weather and Field Marshal Ganguly is desperately hoping his top guns fire. More so, because Pakistan look more disciplined, determined and organised.That is why India must hit the right buttons for which Sehwag's success is so vital. Good news is that his terrible form has not dented his enormous self belief. And he has emotional support -- mother reached Birmingham last night and her dua  will be a bonus for the dashing opener.Every Indo-Pak match is billed as another Kargil, a view that can be disputed but there is general agreement that Birmingham is definitely cricket's Kumbh, which has attracted bhakts  from afar.Here in full force are the family and friends of players and with them are other yatris taking part in the cricket tirath. Prominent visitors are sponsors. All of them have a colossal stake in Sunday's game, and more than mere money is involved. Cricket for sponsors is the backdrop against which commerce takes place, which is why they have roped in filmi sitaras (Hrithik Roshan) too.Genuine cricket legends (Tiger Pataudi, the SMG, Kapil paaji ) are also around, proof once again that this match is not another 50-over game between two talented sides. Explained a major sponsor, “All of us have invested obscene amounts of money into this match. We want India to win. If they lose, or if there is no match, we are gone.”