BEGINNING OF THE END OF THE CRICKET

Kolkata is among the top cricket-crazy cities in the world, and has always stood by and supported the game in a big way. A match at Eden Gardens always ensured a stadium-ful of audience.

Not any more. In the ongoing match between South Africa and India, the stadium remains empty for the most part. Even star-cricketers like Sachin, Saurabh and Shehbag, by whom the cricket-fans swear, have failed to draw the crowd.

Few people are watching the match even on TV. The marketers' new pin-up girl is of course seductive, but what an ugly face!

So, is this a sign of the beginning of the end of the game?
MRINAL BOSE