A wet Tuesday came in the way of a prompt start to the 28th Sportstar Trophy Mumbai Cricket Association under-19 selection trial tournament.
Heavy rains in the last week-end and Tuesday morning ruled out any play at the Oval and Cross maidans, but the four teams did not go home disappointed, listening to a sound advice from former international umpire and chief guest Bomi Jamula.
Closely associated with the BCCI, ACC, ECB and ICC Jamula told the teams at the tournament inauguration that there was no place for “dissent” in today’s game. “A batsman cannot gesture showing the bat when he receives a poor decision. Similarly a bowler too may be aggrieved, but they have to get on with the game without show of dissent. There are people watching the performance of the umpires too. Multiple offences can lead to a ban,” said Jamula.
Touching upon their selection in the four teams, Jamula said: “There are thousands of boys of your age who play in Mumbai. Obviously the selectors have seen some talent in you and that is why you have been selected. Now performance is in your hands and all of you should look forward to playing in the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai. So make the most of it in this tournament.”
Jamula also advised the players to study the laws of the game. “You are all good either in batting or bowling, but it is imperative that you know a fair bit of the laws of the game. Lack of knowledge of the laws of the game and playing conditions has exposed many famous players. There is always an opportunity for you to talk to the umpires about the laws and clear all doubts,” said Jamula.
He presented a bouquet, a cricket shirt and cap to the players at the inauguration held at Dilip Vengsarkar academy ground. The first round matches will resume on Thursday, after a day of break owing to immersion of Ganesh idols.
