How to build a raging fire

The second edition of the IPL is going on merrily in South Africa, despite a few rain disturbances and a mysterious blogger threatening to bring down one of the eight teams. And now a man you wouldn't really associate with cricket has decided to have a look at IPL 2's base and structure, while floating a few wacky trial balloons. Writing from South Africa for Outlook, the author of the novel Q & A - more famously known by its film adaptation Slumdog Millionaire - Vikas Swarup, says the country's weather, time zone and spectators have made the IPL a success. Add to this an aggressive marketing blitz.

In the Cape Times, a South African player who found himself a millionaire overnight says he's in a whole new world. Thats JP Duminy for you.

I've never received so much kit in my life - not even with the Proteas! I received something like 10 playing shirts, four tracksuits, caps, shoes, spikes, you name it! And all branded with the Mumbai Indians logo. I even received a 22-carat gold chain engraved with the Mumbai Indians logo. I thought I was past the stage where receiving new kit excited me but this really was something else.