The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided against hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in India, as confirmed by BCCI secretary Jay Shah. During a recent interaction with journalists from the Times Group at the TOI’s Mumbai office, Shah clarified BCCI’s stance on the matter.
“They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no,” Shah stated. This topic of discussion surfaced amidst concerns due to the ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh, which prompted the ICC to consider alternative venues, including India. Shah elaborated on the reasons behind BCCI’s refusal, highlighting the timing and logistical challenges. “We’re in the monsoon, and on top of that, we will host the women’s ODI World Cup next year. I don’t want to give any kind of signals that I want to hold consecutive World Cups.”
Shah emphasized the importance of the upcoming home series against Bangladesh for the BCCI. “We’ve not spoken to them (the Bangladesh authorities). A new government has taken charge there. They might reach out to us, or else I will reach out to them. The Bangladesh series is very important to us.” The series, scheduled to start on September 19, will feature two Tests and three T20Is.
Attention is also focused on new facilities and academies, with Shah revealing that the High Performance Centre in Bengaluru is nearing completion and will be inaugurated next month. Aiming to cater to both cricketers and non-cricketers, the state-of-the-art facility includes three grounds and 100 pitches, with 45 indoor turfs. Remarkably, the centre will feature various pitches mimicking international standards, allowing the Indian team to practice before overseas assignments.
After assuming the role of BCCI secretary in October 2019, Shah explained that much of his initial term was consumed by organizing the IPL amidst the pandemic. “The office was shut for two years. When we got the second term (in 2022), we decided that we have to take this project forward. The foundation was laid in my first term.” Shah also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to complete the High Performance Centre project. “In 2008, we got that land, and I don’t know why my predecessors didn’t use that. I am lucky that it was in my destiny to raise the academy.”
Moreover, academies are slated to emerge in the North-East region and Jammu. Shah stressed that developing the game in these areas was both a right and a responsibility of the BCCI. “They have got full membership and they are part of the country. Opportunity is their right and it is our responsibility too.” He noted the increased funding from Rs 5 crore to Rs 20 crore to support the development of cricket in these regions.
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Regarding personnel, Shah confirmed that VVS Laxman, the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), would continue in his role. Speculations about Laxman’s departure were dispelled with Shah’s announcement that his contract would be renewed.
Turning to the Indian Premier League (IPL), Shah addressed the debate surrounding the Impact Player rule, a hot topic among franchises and domestic teams. “We had a long chat about this in the recent meeting with the franchise owners. There are positives and negatives to it. The negative is that it affects the all-rounders and the positive side is that it gives an opportunity to an extra Indian player. We should think about the broadcasters also. For me as an administrator, the game is important. Let’s see what feedback we’re getting.”
Whether the Impact Player rule will continue in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) domestic competition is yet to be decided. “The decision will be made in a week,” Shah mentioned, acknowledging some logistical challenges with early morning starts for the Mushtaq Ali games.
Shah also touched on the “Big Auction” in the IPL, emphasizing that the BCCI considers both majority and minority opinions in their decision-making process. The coming season is expected to feature 84 games, but Shah clarified that nothing has been finalized yet. “We will collectively decide. We’ve to factor in the workload of the players and the window also. It’s in the contract, but it is up to the BCCI to decide.”
Similarly, a final call on introducing a sixth Women’s Premier League (WPL) team has not been made. Shah noted, “Once I’m confident that we can add more women players into the mix, we will add an extra side.”
The BCCI has also proposed a special fund for Test cricket to ensure its survival, a topic currently under discussion at the ICC. “It’s very expensive to host Test matches. If the (ICC) Board approves, we can do that. We’re trying to create a special fund for Test cricket.”
Shah also explained India’s reticence to host Pink Ball Tests at home due to shorter matches affecting spectators and broadcasters.
Regarding women’s Test matches and the possibility of a World Test Championship, Shah stated it would be feasible only when all nations start playing Test cricket regularly. “Apart from India, Australia and England, other teams are not playing Tests. New Zealand and South Africa have started playing Tests lately.”
Finally, Shah addressed the debate on whether Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should participate in the Duleep Trophy. He argued against insisting on their participation, citing the risk of injury and the fact that other international players also do not always play domestic cricket.