Justice Vikram Nath Draws Profound Parallels Between Cricket and the Judiciary: Values That Connect Two Institutions

Justice Vikram Nath of the Supreme Court eloquently highlighted the profound parallels between cricket and the judiciary during the inauguration of the Mohinder Kohli Memorial T-10 Tennis Ball Cricket Tournament at the Delhi High Court.

"Fair play, patience, respect, teamwork, and holding on to principles even under pressure - these qualities make a good cricketer and a good judge alike," observed Justice Nath, underlining the remarkable similarities between these two distinct yet connected fields.

He emphasized how both cricket and law have become deeply interwoven into the fabric of Indian life and culture.

The tournament honors the memory of Mohinder Kohli, mother to retired Supreme Court judge Justice Hima Kohli and her sister Neelu Kohli.

Justice Nath reflected on how British rule introduced India to both cricket's rulebook and common law traditions, which Indians subsequently embraced and transformed into integral aspects of their cultural heritage.

"In law, we speak of the spirit of the Constitution, and in cricket, we speak of the spirit of the game. Both are founded on justice, fairness, and respect," he remarked, drawing a thoughtful comparison.

Adding a touch of humor, Justice Nath noted that while judges have a predetermined retirement date, batsmen face the uncertainty of never knowing which delivery might be their final one.

He also highlighted the evolution in cricket, particularly noting how the historic 2025 Women's Cricket World Cup victory effectively eliminated the traditional divide between men's and women's cricket.

"There was a time when cricket was considered only a men's sport. But in 2025, the Indian women's team proved that the game belongs to talent, not gender. Just like the 1983 men's team changed Indian cricket forever, the 2025 World Cup has brought a revolution for women's cricket," Justice Nath explained.

He emphasized that both professions—cricket and judiciary—share a crucial characteristic: the capacity to make sound decisions under pressure.

In his concluding remarks, Justice Nath described the tournament as more than just a sporting event—it represents a heartfelt tribute to a mother and symbolizes the strength of sisterhood.

"Cricket teaches us that every over is a new opportunity - life is no different," he poignantly concluded.