Times Shield an ideal platform for youngsters: Bapu

MUMBAI: Awards functions usually are nostalgic affairs. Old friends and teammates meet, discuss cricket and there's always plenty of leg-pulling. The setting is inevitably celebratory.
The 83rd awards night of the Times Cricket Shield at the MCA Lounge of the Wankhede Stadium was one such occasion as former India spinner Bapu Nadkarni, chief guest of the event, stressed on the importance of the tournament in the city's famed cricket structure.
The 80-year-old, who has played 41 Tests for India, was the first to arrive among the dignitaries. In his short speech, Nadkarni said the Times Shield has proved to be the perfect supply line for Mumbai and India teams.
Recalling his playing days, Nadkarni said: "This tournament is the only one which has maintained its sanctity over the years. It is a proven platform for developing great cricketers. The three-day format of the game has instilled discipline and dedication in the players," Nadkarni reckoned.
While describing T20 cricket only as an entertaining product, Nadkarni added: "Tomorrow the shorter version maybe further reduced to ten overs. But the real cricket is the one that is played over a few days. That is the best format."
What was strange though was the fact that none of the Mumbai Cricket Association officials chose to attend the function despite being invited and despite the event being held in their own premises. Former India skipper Dilip Vengsarkar though was at the event and said he was honoured to share the dais with 'Bapuji'. He recalled a match where he faced Nadkarni and felt that even at the age of 45, he could really trouble the batsmen.
The Times Shield organising committee also introduced two new awards for umpires who officiated in the 'A' Division and curators who prepared sporting tracks.
Former India middle-order batsman, Praveen Amre took the opportunity to thank and acknowledge the efforts of Air India sports in charge, Dilip Pinge, who is due to retire soon. He said it was because of Pinge's efforts that Air India could emerge champions