India's Latest Export: The IPL

So, it's official: the Indian Premier League will not happen in India.

England is several noses ahead of South Africa as I track the developments, and by all accounts, it promises to be a better venue, logistically, as well as in cricket terms, as the next 20-20 World Cup happens there a month later.

But then, it all seems like a bunch of crap: The pronounced political overtones in India over the holding of the tournament, the initial rigidity from Lalit Modi and his team, and then the Sunday night announcement by BCCI President Shashank Manohar.

It was amusing to watch him accuse the government of not cooperating, even as the entire argument by government on security arrangements has sometimes lacked clarity.

The deed, however, is done, and we will now see England deluged by the 20-20 carnival, starting in April with the IPL and ending in June with the World Cup.

Will the IPL generate spectator interest, except in some locations that have a sizeable Indian or sub-continental population?

Will eight cities in England rename themselves?

And what happens to the Indian spectator who wants to be at the ground to support his team?

What about the fan clubs, the merchandising, and the rest of the fanfare?

Yes, India has exported the IPL, at least for now. Will it kill the IPL? Or, will it make a domestic club tournament International.

The jury shall be out on this.