What to expect in 2014?

2013 is done and dusted. All that remains of 2013 are the memories, both happy and sad, to savor. 2014 has started and promises to be exciting on various accounts. We all might have made our own unique resolutions – which happens every year. I have made mine too. Yet to start acting on those. Typical new year stuff, eh? 

2013 was all about scams in politics, Modi as PM candidate for BJP, no PM candidate yet for INC, AAP and their grand entry in politics, retirements in cricket, boring Vettelisms in Formula-1, All German Champions League Final, Managerial changes in English Premier League, Tiger Woods making a comeback and winning, Vishy Anand relinquishing the crown rather easily, new revenue records in Bollywood and all 3 Khans being a part of it, year in which movies like Ship of Theseus and Gravity blessed us etc..

2014 has potential to be epic. Here are some of the reasons why –

Indian Politics: Its Election time! After all the corruption and scandals, we can now look forward to a fresh group of people running the country. We can have a new and fresh government or an old government with fresh faces – whichever way you would like to believe. It could also be a hung verdict with strange partnerships deciding the government formation. Could it be the BJP this time? Can Congress spring a surprise despite all the corruptions? Or will it be the 3^rd front? Or AAP? The jury is out on this. Expect innumerable polls and analysis on prime time television (or is it called super prime time now?). Whatever happens, we are in for a change. And hopefully, a change for the better.

Cricket: We witnessed South Africa defeat India and Australia demolish England in Ashes. Now we are about to witness the victors of both the series come together for the biggest battle of the season. Its Australia vs South Africa and it promises to be epic. India starts the season with a tour to New Zealand followed by Asia Cup in Bangladesh. T20 World Cup is back and will start in March. We are still awaiting the IPL status this year due to General Elections. It may happen earlier than scheduled or may happen outside the country. Indian team will then tour England in July followed by a home series against West Indies (wonder why have this series every year). We will then end the year the same way we started - a tour down under, this time against Australia.

Soccer: The year of the World Cup in Brazil. Though, I must admit, I am not a hardcore country vs country soccer fan. I support Brazil and feel they have the potential (they always have) to win the cup. However, Germany and Spain are not too far behind. Count Italy in and we have an unpredictable situation where anyone can take the cup. I am an EPL fan and follow the Gunners. Arsenal have been on top this season and I expect them to go all the way and win the premier league. Somewhat difficult given the form and bench strength of teams like Manchester City. And there are some mouth-watering Champions League action with Arsenal playing the reigning champions Bayern Munich and Manchester City playing Barcelona.

Formula-1: Every year, I start with the usual excitement of a new Formula-1 season. The excitement is because I hope this season will be different (Read: a non-Vettel non-Red Bull champion) and later on, I am proven wrong. I have my reasons to continue the same hope this season too. We have Alonso and Raikkonen in Ferrari and can expect the fight to the Red Bulls. There are no weak links now and if the car is capable, we can see a change for sure. Add to this mix the vastly developed McLaren drivers in Hamilton and Rosberg and we can expect a race to the finish! C’mon Iceman, let this be your year!

Bloggers Park: You can expect more blogs on Politics. I am keenly following the happenings leading up to the general elections and beyond – after all, we are all about to witness one of the most closely fought 3 way battle for power. Expect sports related articles for reasons mentioned above. There will be some book reviews as usual. More maturity and analysis, less on crap and speculation!

Brace yourself. Tighten your seat belts, hold your breath and then release your breath. We are in for a wild ride!