New Delhi, Aug. 11 -- On 15 August, when India celebrates Independence Day, the Taliban regime in Afghanistan will mark four years in power. The day and date are symbolic in other ways. Both nations, along with China and Russia are involved in a new, more nuanced version of the 'Great Game.' Unlike the one played between the 1800s and 2000s (Russia, Britain, Europe and the US), the new sport is more economic in nature and less political, geopolitical and military. The players are situated in the East, rather than the West.

Historically, the term, 'Great Game,' was coined by a British intelligence officer, Captain Arthur Conolly, in the 19th century. It was during this time that England was involved in a conflict with the Russian Empire f...