A Game of Power and Influence

The recent suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to the escalating military conflict in Kashmir has brought to the forefront the deep-seated politicization of cricket, a sport that has become increasingly entangled with the whims of India’s ruling BJP party. The IPL, the second most lucrative sports league in the world, is not just a game of cricket, but a platform for the Indian government to showcase its nationalist ideology and exert its influence over the global cricket community.

The IPL’s suspension is a significant development, not just for the Indian cricket team, but for the sport as a whole. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has stated that it is “monitoring the situation,” but it is unclear what agency they have to object to the politicizing of the game or comment on the Kashmir conflict. The ECB’s silence is a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play, where the Indian government’s influence is paramount.

The IPL’s ties to the Indian government are well-documented. The league’s governing body, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is led by Jay Shah, the son of Amit Shah, a close ally of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This close relationship has led to concerns that the IPL is being used as a tool for sports-washing, a practice where sports events are used to whitewash human rights abuses and authoritarianism.

The politicization of cricket is not limited to the IPL. The upcoming five-Test series between India and England is also under scrutiny, with concerns about the safety of Pakistani players and the potential for protests and unrest in the host cities. The ECB’s decision to “monitor the situation” is a cop-out, and it remains to be seen how they will navigate this complex web of politics and nationalism.

The impact of India’s nationalistic politics on cricket is far-reaching. The sport has become a platform for the Indian government to promote its ideology and exert its influence over other countries. The recent comments by Lancashire chief executive Daniel Gidney, who suggested that the Hundred should sell a stake to the BCCI, are a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play.

The politicization of cricket is a lesson for the world, a reminder of the dangers of strongman-ism and the manipulation of public spectacle. As the sport continues to navigate this complex web of politics and nationalism, it is essential that we remember the importance of independence and the need for cricket to be a platform for all, not just the powerful and influential.

In the words of George Orwell, “mimic warfare” is a perfect description of the IPL’s role in promoting nationalist ideology. The sport has become a tool for the Indian government to manipulate public opinion and exert its influence over other countries. As we navigate this complex web of politics and nationalism, it is essential that we remember the importance of independence and the need for cricket to be a platform for all, not just the powerful and influential.