Evolution plays an integral role in ensuring the survival and growth of a species - or a game for that matter.
The Twenty20 format has transformed cricket with its emphasis on playing faster, harder and smarter, says Vijay Pandya
Evolution plays an integral role in ensuring the survival and growth of a species - or a game for that matter. When traditional five-day cricket found it difficult to sustain attention, the 50 limited over format gave it a new lease of life for several decades. When that also became predictable and too time consuming, it seemed as if the game had lost its lure and would gradually fade away, like its viewers.
However, the recently introduced Twenty20 format, effectively saved cricket from extinction. It transformed the game and brought viewers back, not just in front of television screens, but also in the stadiums, with the emphasis on playing faster, harder and smarter.
Batsmen flourished, scoring more in less than 20 overs than they had while playing a full 50. Shots that could not be traced to any cricketing textbook made their appearance in large numbers, as batsmen opted for belligerence and bravado over caution and circumspection.
Above all, it was the duration of the format that really made a difference to viewers. In a fast paced world where spending five days or an entire day to watch a cricket match was impossible, setting aside three hours was within the realm of possibility. The fast paced action also ensured that viewers did not succumb to the temptation of channel surfing and remained glued to their television screens.
Twenty20 also witnessed everyone from corporate czars like Vijay Mallaya and Ness Wadia to Bollywood stars like Shahrukh Khan and Preity Zinta putting their money where their heart is and took the game to a different level entirely.
The format also provided an excellent opportunity for companies from a variety of sectors to bond with their colleagues and contemporaries over a few games of cricket. Twenty20 provides an ideal avenue for a larger number of companies to showcase their competitive edge and the duration of the game ensures that work is not disrupted beyond a point.
Among the most popular and successful tournaments has been DNA Twenty20, conceived specifically for the media fraternity. DNA Twenty20 will soon be having its 'Season II' starting November 8, 2008 onwards with 12 participating teams, comprising all top media agencies. The finals will be telecast live on DD Sports.
While the Madison team had lifted the DNA Twenty20 trophy during Season I, the entire media fraternity is breathless with anticipation, waiting to see who bags the coveted award this year. Tune in and feel the adrenaline rush!
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