Should the IPL continue?

Its existence seems ugly, unwanted, irrelevant, greedy amidst this fear, this gloom, this despair.

It seems unbelievable that high-profile cricket can continue in the country when you are scared to receive a call from a number you know.

And yet.
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And yet, I do not know whether this season's should be called off.

Too many people look forward to these four hours every day. To escape the crippling fear if not anything else.

And cricket to escape from gloom is not a first.
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Cricket matches were organised during the World Wars to help boost the morale of the public.

Whether it works is something for psychologists to decide.

There is also the matter of livelihood.

Not mine. I can sustain for some time if the tournament is called off tomorrow.
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But it will not be the same for many others in the industry. Believe me, I know what I am talking about.

Cricketers are pulling out. It may have to be postponed. Or it may not.

Until then, let it be.

However, there are a few things I would like to see.
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The coverage can be sombre.

They need not yell on air.

This is not the time to celebrate. Not even remotely close to. In fact, as far away from that as possible.

We are – should be – a nation in mourning. Yelling sounds ghastly.
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They can don black armbands. Mourn. Observe silence. Cricketers, officials, support staff, everyone.

Every day. Because death does not take a break.

The nation worships them. If they show they care, it will matter.

It won't change things but just that extra bit.
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Captains can speak to the fans at the toss. At the post-match. Remind everyone of vaccines, masks, everything.

Not only captains. All players. Even in regional languages. Between them they can cover a lot of Indian languages.

They are doing this, but it is far from enough.
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They can keep a ticker with emergency numbers. Social media users are doing their bit.

Can you imagine how powerful the IPL coverage can be as a means of communication?

And finally, charity. Not individuals. Cummins, Lee, anyone else – wonderful gestures, thank you.
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But there is only so much individuals can do.

The sponsors need to step in.

I don't care if you use brand names while announcing money or oxygen cylinders or whatever mode they choose to help.

But please, please donate to reliable, auditable bodies.
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The IPL biobubble is probably the safest place in India right now.

To be able to play cricket under these circumstances is a privilege.

Everyone does – should – expect the IPL to do its bit for the ones outside the bubble.
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And you can do all this without hurting anyone or risking your career.