Rajdeep Sardesai

Democracy's XI

1. IDEA 1

   Cricket mirrors a changing India

   Sardesai argues that the stories of India's great cricketers reflect the country's social changes. As the game spread beyond big cities and elite families, it became a more open and democratic sport.

2. IDEA 2

   Gavaskar gave India confidence

   Sardesai describes Sunil Gavaskar as the batsman who showed Indian players could stand up to the world's fastest bowlers. His technique and self-belief marked the start of a more confident era.

3. IDEA 3

   Kapil brought the small-town spirit

   Sardesai presents Kapil Dev, from Chandigarh, as a symbol of new talent from outside the old cricket centres. His 1983 World Cup win changed Indian cricket and made it a mass passion.

All 8 ideas from Democracy's XI →