DISCONCERTING
   Date :16-Apr-2021

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THE very scene of countless thousands of persons converging on the Kumbh Mela for a holy dip in the Ganga, only adds to the overall sense of unease in the people as the country struggles to face the second wave of coronavirus. The general sense of discomfiture increases manifold when pictures of pilgrims ignoring COVID-19 norms get flashed in the media. Of course, similar unease also troubles the people when they see pictures of election rallies and roadshows with thousands of people in 25 per cent parts of the country -- five States. This appears to be a no-win situation for the country, unless and until some brave steps are taken to avoid such crowds at any cost, so that the ugly coronavirus is kept at bay to some extent. This is not to suggest suspension of religious gatherings or election process, but suffice it is to say that certain events can be postponed to future dates. That may mean giving an extension to Governments in the States for some time. But then, considering the larger good, that may not be a bad idea to begin with. Experience has shown us that when large crowds come together for whatever reason, the risk of spread of infection goes up exponentially, disconcertingly.
 
SPEED BATTERY
 
THE sense of satisfaction expressed by the legendary cricketer Kapil Dev over the overall improvement in speed bowling department in Indian cricket, is absolutely fathomable. Kapil Dev has appreciated not just the improved quality of speed bowling but also the number of pacers in the country. In his days, such a bench strength was just a matter of day-dream and speed bowling was as if beyond the average thinking in Indian cricket. When discussion involves Kapil Dev, the first and the foremost thought is of his excellent health. He never sat in the dug out for injury or ill-health. He also had an incredible capacity of bowling continuously from one end throughout the day, unmindful of the physical and mental stress and strain a pacer suffers in every outing. (Years after retirement, Kapil Dev is engaged in professional golf even at an advanced age, thanks to his overall fitness). That was one of the reasons why India produced so few pacers when Kapil Dev was active on the field. It is only natural, therefore, that he now feels happy that more and more youngsters are taking to speed bowling and are enriching Indian cricket. Kapil Dev appears happy about the current golden period of Indian speed bowling.