Editorial: We owe England big

If England indeed decide to tour India, the first Test match will be underway in a week. This would be the first big event of such kind to be hosted in India post the shock of 11/26 and 60-hour long ordeal that followed. Even if England show up with half of their star players missing, it would still be an event to cherish and celebrate.

All the symbolism apart, if England show up, it would be because they trust India. They trust the fact that under the aegis of Indian security forces, their lives are safe. It would be because, by playing the two Test matches, they would earn every bit of respect and fame every athlete craves for and deserves. It would be because they realize that the risks - however big or small - *are* worth taking.

And for that, we Indians owe them. I am not the one who believes in the symbolism this Test series will hold. At the end of the day, it is just a sport. Trivial compared to the scenes seen on TV around the world last week. Trivial compared to the enormous loss that the families have suffered. Trivial compared to the fact that the attacks tried to threaten the very manner in which we Indians live our lives.

But the fact that 15 or so cricketers who represent their country honorably, and who all are stars in their own right decide to embark on a journey to our homeland when we could use every ounce of support - that is not trivial. And for that we Indians owe them. Ever since the dust settled outside the Nariman House, the vibes sent out by the ECB have been nothing short of reassuring. And for that we owe them - even if this series does not take place.

If it does, and we get 10 days of high quality cricket, the onus will be on every cricket fan in Chennai and Mohali to return the favor.Return the favor by showing up at the venues and supporting the team that you have always supported. No banners, no hoardings needed. Just show up and show how we care. The world will be watching.