ARRESTING PHENOMENAL SLIDES

 

It was a moment to relish, when the Kerala cricket team entered the final of the Ranji Trophy Cricket tournament, last year. It was the first time for them. They had demolished several heavyweights on that journey. In the final, perhaps it might have been nerves, or perhaps the eventual winners, Vidarbha, were far superior. Kerala could finish only as the Runners up.

Historically in the earlier editions, Kerala never had been in contention. In fact they were punching bags for the rest of India.

What is surprising is that a team, that had proved is mettle so well last year, could not cross the league format in this year. They could beat Goa alone. 

Winning and losing are part of life, part of sport and part of the game everywhere. 

The Times of India of 19th March 2026, has presented a deep analysis on the failure of the Kerala Cricket team in the current year.                                                                      

The article sums up that the regression was on several counts.  The preparation was without clarity.  There was no  long term planning.  The domestic journey has never followed a linear trajectory. 

The departure of Jalaj Saxena had created a void that that had stripped the side of control, balance and experience during clutch moments. Although the work ethic of MD Nidheesh was impeccable, there had been no one to back him. 

Kerala did reach the summit last year. But they forgot that once you reach there, you have to stay there, sustain the success and build on the momentum. 

Kerala's task for the future is cut out. They have to build something sturdier to endure the grind of the Ranji season.

Transpose this into our own lives or our own offices or our own work situations.

How or why do we do well? Or how or why do we do badly, is a question we have to ask ourselves. If we keep our eyes open, we have the answer before us.

It is the team effort that brings in success. The departure of a stalwart, though painful, may affect the texture momentarily, but efficiency lies in restoration of the teams's stature at the earliest. A one man show is not enough either. Backing up is crucial. 

Recalibrate ourselves in our journey of life, is the essence.