Ricky Ponting – A case of immature jealousy?

So Ricky Ponting has again placed a question mark on the role of legend Sachin Tendulkar as a witness in Monkey gate scandal. But I put this down to the sheer frustration, jealousy and mental agony of not being as good as Sachin Tendulkar. I am sure most of the fans see this in the same perspective. A devoted fan of Sachin pointed out, that in the last IPL, Ricky Ponting failed miserably and had to sit out – and this latest allegation might be a possible reaction!

If anyone asks the great Ricky Ponting to write an essay on his ambition in life, I am sure the topic will be how to beat Sachin Tendulkar! The prestigious newspaper Hindustan has published a story highlighting extracts from the book ‘The Close of Play’ written by Ricky Ponting. The paper has highlighted that Ricky Ponting is known to be a good friend of the God of cricket Sachin Tendulkar. But it appears that he does not deserve to be a friend of anyone!

Now the million dollar question arises as to why Ricky Ponting has raised this dead issue again? The reason is very simple and known to the whole world. Throughout his career, Ponting was day dreaming and boasted that he might be the one to overcome Sachin’s records. But he was far behind in all respects!

Also, the moment Sachin announced his retirement plans, he is getting extensive non-stop coverage in the media around the globe. The attention he has got is far beyond the imagination of anyone. This is simply becoming unbearable for many, especially Ricky Ponting – who used to claim that he is equally good (As did the western media). But the way he was thrown out, and his career ended, there remains no comparison between Sachin and him.

Many believe that in order to boost the sales of his book, he has deliberately mentioned Sachin’s role in monkey gate scandal. He knows that by creating a controversy, his book will gain popularity but he does not know that this old trick is no more a secret.

Recently, Shahid Afridi had also said that Lara is a better player than Sachin – who did not react at all. This underlines his composure, contentment and greatness, which is far beyond the approach of people with narrow mind.

Earlier, Adam Gilchrist had also said that he never believed in the version given by Tendulkar in the scandal. But all facts point towards Sachin’s honesty. Justice John Hansen of New Zealand was given the charge of hearing the appeal against Harbhajan Singh. Based on the testimony of Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar, all the charges of racial abuse were cleared and Harbhajan Singh was charged 50% of the match fees. This is amply clear that all the laid down procedures were followed and there is no fun in highlighting the matter for one’s petty gain.

Ponting has raised a question mark as to why Sachin did not say anything in front of the umpire when the incident took place? The reason is very clear. Knowing the temperament of Sachin, he likes to stay away from the controversies. But when he noticed that his team mate and friend Harbhajan Singh is unnecessarily being dragged in an issue clearly begun on the prerogative of Symonds, he followed the right path and spoke the truth. It appears that players like Ricky Ponting or Shahid Afridi are naturally feeling a bit jealous of the stature and unparalleled popularity of Sachin Tendulkar.

But both these legends should understand that Sachin has established an image of a totally humble and honest gentleman. Hardly anyone is going to believe the false charges being levied.

Instead, had Ricky Ponting dedicated a few pages in appreciation of Sachin, he would have received much larger benefits. Sachin, in any case, does not need anybody’s recommendation.

Also, the great Ricky Ponting must ask the current captain of Australia George Bailey as to what happens if you provoke Indian players! Sachin has been answering through his bat, but the much more aggressive young Indian players like Virat Kohli or Shikhar Dhawan are not ready to tolerate any unwarranted remarks. The message is loud and clear for all.

Incidentally, Sachin is regarded as an institution for learning sportsman’s spirit, while Ricky Ponting had the image of a very cunning captain. Here lies the difference. So Sachin does not require a lecture on being fair and honest, the whole world knows this. Also, there is a world out there, far away from the record books, and that is called humanity. Sachin Tendulkar has been truly representing that noble world since ages. Do I need to say more?