Poems by
Krishnaswamy S R

Ode to Hansie Cronje’s Wilderness

a poem by Krishnaswamy S R

Takes Charge

We misspelt his name as Cronge;
When the grim cricketer-binational, Kepler
Wessels handed over reins unto Wessel Hansie Cronje.

Growing well, command personified
His studious self’s first phase read well
The career, when into twenties; established Hansie
Was charm, synergy-driving, intent personified. Excellence
Absorbed in cricketing samyama. Glory to him personalised the
Spirit of victory to onlookers and the discerning. Team
Of the country stood as one on his word, proud.

The Fall: Self-defeat, shame!

Though, we all misread Cronyea: In
Spelt word he failed. In deed, he did; sham.
Money could buy wealth, not the fame lost; corruption
Be not just your fall, man, but of our sporting faith.
O, Hansie, your sight as a besieged lamb under
Press-lights rends our hearts in mortification!

Go through guilt, realise refinement!

Yet, your confession spells the end of
Prospective misdeed. Ye shall rise above
Pain, experience the wilderness through guilt
In glued repentance: To purify
Your spirit in nobility, outlasting samskaras.
To qualify as a prodigal resurrected.

Come back, Cronje good!

And, for us to see you in the field, that is,
In our yearning consciousness as a leading delight;
Come back, Cronje good!