"There are two teams out there; one is trying to play cricket and the other is not....."--Bill Woodfull

It is a shame whats been happening in Australia. Its a tough loss for India especially after the number of decisions that went against them. Their morale must be further down after what happened to Bhajji. What is heartening to see is Indian Board's reaction. They have stuck by their captain and player which should give the touring party some encouragement.

This reminds me of the controversy surrounding Inzi in England when they were labeled cheats. I am not sure what kind of support he got from his board but I like the way the Indians are sticking it up to the establishment.

Here are some interesting links that gives you an idea of what transpired between Bhajji and Symonds


http://www.kalyansuman.com/2008/01/harbhajan-bajji-symonds-controversy.html


An article from Peter Roebuck and Prem Panicker demanding Pontings ban and dismissal from captaincy

http://www.smh.com.au/news/cricket/arrogant-ponting-must-be-fired/2008/01/07/1199554571883.html

http://www.rediff.com/cricket/2008/jan/07prem.htm

Commentators and media around the world have joined in support of India and the unfair treatment meted out. What has become clear from this episode is that once Aussies are dished out their own kind of treatment it becomes too much for them to bear it. Before this tour started we heard from Dhoni and Bhajji that they will give back if need be. Here it is and how well have the Aussies handled it. For long I have supported the Australian team because of their aggressive cricket but I think its time for a change!!!!!

Recipe - Karnataka Style Kootu

I got this recipe while I was browsing for authentic Karnataka style dishes and thanks to author which I did not write down. But my wife who is from Delhi loved this. Here is the recipe:
Masala Mix

1. 4 tbs dhania
2. 8-9 red chillies (add more to increase the spice level)
3. 2 tbs jeera
4. 7-8 pepper corns
5. 1 small piece of cinnamon
6. 1 tbs channa dal
7. 1.5-2 spoons urad dal
8. 2 tbs dry/fresh coconut powder

Soak required tamarind in water.

• Fry the masala mix and grind them into a smooth paste.
• Pressure cook vegetables and 2 cups of dal in a cooker upto 2-3 whistles. You can use potatoes, carrot, cauliflower, cabbage and green peas. (When I tried there were no other vegetables other than tindora and peas but still tasted awesome).
• Add the masala paste to the cooked vegetables and dal. Also add the tamarind water, turmeric, chilli powder and salt to taste.
• Boil this for 5-7 mins and kootu is ready.
• For final touches, heat oil in a wok or pan; add 3 tbs jeera, small pieces of red chillies, 3-4 pinches of hing, mustard seeds and roast the mixture until the mustard seeds splutter.
• Add this tadka to the kootu and its ready to be served with white rice and ghee.