6/11/2007

An example to us all - Monty Panesar


Well done today to the most wonderful example of what multiculturalism can bring to British society, in this case it is the incomparable Monty Panesar, England cricketer, Sikh and the world's best finger spinner to boot.

Everyone already knows about his undoubted promise, but in recent weeks with a faltering Steve Harmison, and injured Flintoff and Hoggard and a wayward Plunkett in the team, Monty has stepped up to the plate and because the world class spin bowler that he had promised to be. Today he took his first ten wicket haul in a test match and he has taken the plaudits too for an astonishing couple of matches in a row.

When people ask what multiculturalism has to offer the should consider Monty Panesar. Not only is he a top class cricketer representing "his" country, but he is an example to others and from every account, an absolute lovely guy. What's more, he plays cricket with a smile on his face, he excites crowds, he has a cult following and makes the sport exciting on a dull day.

I was always struck by the comments he received when going with England to tour India. The Indian press asked "What is an Indian doing playing for England ?" his reply was, "I don't know, I'm from Luton !". Brilliant !

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