BCCI’s threat sounds hollow

There were strong reactions to the impasse. The Indian Express presents some excerpts

There were strong reactions to the impasse. The Indian Express presents some excerpts:

• Kirti Azad: “What does the BCCI feel threatened about? How can Twenty20 affect cricket or the BCCI? Even Kerry Packer could not affect the game, despite the fact that he had roped in international stars and conducted a tournament of 50 overs-a-side games. It is ridiculous on the part of BCCI.

They can’t stoop to such levels, even stopping players’ pension. It is hitting below the belt.

Story continues below this ad

“Instead of such petty fights, the BCCI should think of taking cricket to every corner of the country and give affiliations to more state bodies. We, in Bihar, have been fighting for affiliation for such a long time.”

• Madan Lal: “The ICL will only help Indian cricket. Youngsters will have more opportunities. The BCCI should not have such attitudes and look at it positively.

And doing away with players’ pension will only project the BCCI in a poor light. The BCCI had decided to give pension on its own. No player asked for it.”

• Aunshuman Gaekwad: “I don’t think (any player will be dissuaded simply by the pension threat). Anyone joining ICL must be weighing all options. Those players must be compensated well. “I think the parties involved need to sit together and discuss.

Story continues below this ad

I firmly believe a lot of problems can be solved by discussing issues. At the end of the day the game is larger than anyone.”