The British rule, it is claimed, left its lasting legacy in at least three areas: the parliamentary system, English as lingua-franca and the gentleman's game of cricket! The game's importance has grown in stature over the years. Without doubt, it enjoys the numero uno position in the world of sports in India . Work comes to a stand-still when India plays a match, be it against Zimbabwe or the mighty Australia!

Why is the game so popular? A ten by ten feet vacant space is enough for the boys to gather and play cricket with used tennis balls, improvised stumps with sticks and truncated teams. There is scope for variety; one can either be a bowler or batsman. Wicket-keeping might be an expert domain that demands a lot of agility, quick reflexes and alertness. Avid fans still remember the combination of Davidson and Wally Grout of Australia.

Cricket is perhaps the only game with a large following of female fans, many of them game enough to venture to the stadium. Of late, they have even encroached the realm of ‘expert opinion' with the likes of Mandira Bedi making a mark. IPL saw the emergence of team owners like Preity Zinta, Shilpa Shetty et al. Sports quiz shows attract women viewers today, BSNL Sports Quiz being a notable one, showcasing several women who display their prowess and knowledge while answering technical questions.

Women, with their eye for detail, relish creating sports albums with the help of newspaper and magazine clippings. We have a good collection at home, thanks to my younger sister! These albums not only preserve valuable statistics, but also help us cherish historic moments.

Women fans are very discerning and can hold their own in any discussion about the umpire's decision, strategy adopted by the rival captains in field placement, bowling changes or even the state of the pitch. They are so involved and passionate, as is their wont, that they can't brook disastrous performances.

There are moments of superstition too, when the TV or Radio is switched off, and the ‘lucky one' in the family asked to restart the same!

The ongoing World Cup matches are a veritable feast to these women, a substantial portion of whom consist of home-makers. Let us salute these women for their enthusiasm and interest in a game which is today the nation's pride, on this Women's Day!

(The writer is a former Financial Commissioner, Railway Board)

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