The Mid-Off Blues

But if your name is Ajay Jadeja, getting into the Indian team is probably the toughest thing in the world. Tougher than gaining acceptance in the fickle world of films. The cricketer who once looked set to be India's captain, at least in odis, was exiled after being banned from playing cricket for five years. Last week, with the Supreme Court refusing to stay the Delhi High Court's interim order to allow him to play domestic cricket, Jadeja moved one step closer to playing cricket. But representing India still remains a distant dream. While dismissing the bcci's petition for a stay, the Supreme Court said: "He (Jadeja) has been allowed to play only domestic cricket."

Jadeja refuses to comment on the order, saying he does not understand legalese. For the present, he is happy playing for Air Sahara. He scored 45 and a 101 off 78 balls in two appearances on Delhi's local circuit. Obviously, he is pleased with his first taste of competitive cricket in a long, long time: "It's great to be back. I still dream of playing for India again. Cricket remains my first love. I just want to play."