Date:05/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/05/stories/2007120553621003.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Magic number 709

Muttiah Muralitharan has become the supreme bowler of the world after attaining the magic number, 709, on his home ground against England on Monday. He achieved the record in less number of matches with a better economy rate compared to Shane Warne whose record he broke.

Although his bowling action has been cleared emphatically by the ICC many times, his detractors are not tired of casting doubts on his action obviously for selfish reasons. Muralitharan is undoubtedly a great bowler whose record is unlikely to be broken soon.

V.S. Ganeshan,

Bangalore

* * *

It is to Murali’s credit that he bore with equanimity of mind and sportive sprit the test to which he was scientifically subjected to in Australia for his bowling action, not allowing the humiliation to dampen his enthusiasm for the game. That he foxed and flummoxed the batsmen with his bamboozling doosra and his ever-smiling face bears testimony to his character and the sprit of the game. I doff my hat to him.

M. Sundaresan,

Chennai

* * *

Murali fought and overcame many a taunt and affront by sheer hard work, determination and faith in his ability. If Shane Warne was an aesthete’s delight (editorial “Bravo Murali,” Dec. 4), Murali is a “rubber-wristed illusionist” as felicitously described by Steve Waugh. Statistics apart, both the cricketers have contributed immensely to the beauty of spin bowling. The editorial will hearten the fans of both these fascinating cricketers.

C.P. Srinivasan,

Apex, North Carolina

* * *

The achievement is indeed a tribute to Murali’s character. He has endured several trials and emerged stronger with his winning smile always in place. It is this quality that has endeared the “smiling assassin” to one and all.

Suresh Manoharan,

Hyderabad

* * *

The record is indeed a reward for the spinner’s commitment and perseverance. The jeer, humiliation and criticism he was subject to did not deter him from accomplishing the remarkable feat.

S. Ramakrishnasayee,

Ranipet

* * *

Murali’s achievement is a matter of pride for not only Sri Lankans but all Asians. Through his perseverance and hard work, he has reached the greatest height. He faced the adversities in his cricketing life with a smile and transformed them into advantages.

S.J. Kiran,

Dharwad

* * *

Murali’s real triumph lies less in his bowling record and more in the manner he lives his life. He has emerged out of many tests of character, under adverse circumstances, with poise, dignity and a disarming smile. He is humble in the way he wears his success — a magnanimous winner and a gracious cricketer.

Anand Datla,

Amman