By Bipin Dani
Cricket Australia (CA) recently acknowledged that it would have been more appropriate to invite both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar to present the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the winning captain. The exclusion of Gavaskar, who was present at the venue, has raised questions and concerns among cricket fans.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which bears the names of these two cricket legends, represents the historic rivalry and camaraderie between Australia and India. During the presentation ceremony held at the Sydney Cricket Ground, only Allan Border was on stage to hand over the trophy to Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, following their victory in the fifth Test match.
Given that both namesakes of the trophy Sir Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar were present at the venue, it would have been fitting for Sunil Gavaskar to have handed over the trophy to the victorious Australian captain, Pat Cummins
Sunil Gavaskar, who was on commentary duty at the time, expressed his disappointment at not being included in the presentation. He highlighted that the trophy symbolizes both nations’ cricketing heritage, and it would have been fitting to have both namesakes involved in the ceremony.
A spokesperson for Cricket Australia admitted that not including Gavaskar was an oversight and that having both Border and Gavaskar on stage would have been the ideal situation. This statement reflects CA’s recognition of the importance of honoring both cricketing icons in the context of this prestigious trophy.
This incident has sparked discussions about the significance of respecting cricketing legends and ensuring their contributions are appropriately acknowledged. As cricket continues to evolve, it remains crucial for governing bodies to uphold the traditions and respect that define the sport.
Not just an oversight, but a brain-freeze on part of CA. An apology to Gavaskar would be in order.