The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has declined to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, a revelation made by Jay Shah, the secretary of the BCCI. In a detailed interaction with Times Group journalists at the TOI’s Mumbai office on Wednesday, Shah explained the rationale behind the decision.
Shah elaborated that the International Cricket Council (ICC) had approached BCCI about hosting the event due to the ongoing disturbances in Bangladesh, which had India positioned as a potential alternative. Shah, however, turned down the request categorically. “They (ICC) have asked us if we would conduct the World Cup. I have categorically said no,” he affirmed.
He reasoned that India is currently affected by the monsoon season and that they are already committed to hosting the Women’s ODI World Cup next year. Hosting consecutive World Cups, in Shah’s opinion, could send the wrong message. “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,” he elucidated.
The ongoing home series against Bangladesh was described as crucial for BCCI by Shah. He indicated that communication with the Bangladesh authorities hadn’t yet been established, given the recent change in their government. “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,” he noted. In this upcoming series, India is scheduled to play two Tests and three T20Is starting from September 19.
One of the significant developments shared during the interaction was about the High Performance Centre in Bengaluru, a pet project of the BCCI nearing its completion. Shah announced that the inauguration is expected next month. “After I took over as the secretary in October of 2019, a lot of time went towards holding the IPL, because of 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,” he stated proudly.
This state-of-the-art facility will also cater to non-cricketers and will feature three grounds and 100 pitches, including 45 indoor turfs. As Shah noted, it will offer various types of pitches seen in international stadiums like the Gabba in Brisbane and Kingsmead in Durban, allowing the Indian team to practice on similar surfaces before overseas tours.
“We wanted to make the best use of what we got on a platter. 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. It was unfortunate that we had to run the National Cricket Academy (NCA) from the Chinnaswamy Stadium,” Shah proclaimed.
. He emphasized India’s leading position in cricket finances, marketing, and performance.
In an effort to promote the game in less represented regions, academies are being established in all northeastern states as well as in Jammu. Shah underscored the responsibility of the BCCI to develop cricket in these areas. “It’s simple. They have got full membership and they are part of the country. Opportunity is their right and it is our responsibility too. Earlier they used to get Rs 5 crore and now they are getting Rs 20 crore to run the game,” he explained.
The continuation of VVS Laxman as the head of the NCA was also confirmed by Shah. Despite his contract expiring in September, the BCCI has decided to renew it, quashing any speculation about Laxman’s departure.
The BCCI is currently evaluating the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Shah outlined both the positive and negative aspects of the rule, noting that while it gives an opportunity to an extra Indian player, it may adversely affect all-rounders. “We had a long chat about this in the recent meeting with the franchise owners. We had a long chat among our domestic teams also. 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,” he stated.
Furthermore, Shah addressed the scheduling concerns for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), indicating that the decision on whether to continue the Impact Player rule would be made in a week. He pointed out that the BCCI ensures equitable scheduling for teams regarding morning and night matches, considering weather impacts on the Ranji Trophy games as well.
On the subject of IPL auctions, Shah emphasized balanced consideration of both minority and majority opinions before making a decision.
Additionally, the BCCI is pondering over the prospect of having a dedicated special fund for Test cricket. Shah explained that hosting Test matches is expensive, and the ICC is in discussions to approve a dedicated fund to sustain the format. He also clarified why Pink Ball Tests are no longer held in India, citing the quick conclusion of these matches as a major drawback.
Lastly, on the front of women’s Test matches and the concept of a Women’s World Test Championship, Shah said progress is possible only when more nations start participating in Test cricket. Presently, aside from India, Australia, and England, most countries don’t seem to prioritize this format for women.
In conclusion, Shah discussed the ongoing debate about domestic players’ participation and the importance of respecting players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli by not insisting on their participation in domestic competitions. Additionally, he affirmed BCCI’s strategic approach towards coaching appointments and the potential hiring of a mental conditioning trainer, adding further strength to the team’s support staff.