The tug of war between PCB and BCCI continues to rage on as the Champions Trophy 2025 schedule nears its official announcement. BCCI openly expressed its displeasure about visiting Pakistan citing "security" concerns and rather suggested the ICC to have all their matches shifted to a neutral venue, Dubai. 

However, the PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi strongly voiced his objection to BCCI's inclination towards having a proposed "hybrid" model. He reiterated firmly that the entire tournament will be hosted in Pakistan and the Indian team, like other participating teams, are obliged to visit the country. In a recent media discussion at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Naqvi revealed that the PCB is yet to receive any official confirmation from the BCCI regarding India's objection to playing in Pakistan. 

What is Mohsin Naqvi's stance on this issue?

Amidst growing reports on the India team's unwillingness to participate in the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan, Naqvi has said that he is actively in touch with his Indian counterpart and assures that he is working around the clock with his team to make progress on this issue. He further clarified his stance and explained that if any objections need to be conveyed by the BCCI then it has to be in the form of writing. As of now, the PCB has not received any official complaint or an objection in the written format.

"In the last two months, the Indian media has been reporting that India isn't traveling. I discussed this with them and my team, and our stance is clear: they need to give us in writing any objections they may have. Until now, no discussion of the hybrid model has happened, nor are we prepared to accept one. The Indian media are reporting it, but no formal communication has reached the PCB."

Additionally, Naqvi also debunks any possibility of adopting a hybrid model and states that there has been no discussion between the PCB and the BCCI of having a hybrid model and neither are they in a position to adopt one. 

Distraught cricketing ties between India and Pakistan

Both India and Pakistan have been bitter rivals off the field but due to the ongoing political standoff. Despite the bitter geopolitical ties, cricket between the two Asian cricketing giants blossomed and the rivalry between the two nations was something to behold. Since the infamous terror attacks in Mumbai, India has never toured Pakistan for a bilateral series since 2008. Pakistan too, have severed their cricketing ties with India and last came on a bilateral series tour in 2012-13. However, the two nations continue to face each other in major ICC events. 

Naqvi elaborates that Pakistan has been very cooperative in this matter and despite BCCI's refusal to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, PCB still made a decision to send their cricket team to play the ODI World Cup 2023. That tournament eventually adopted a hybrid model, with the latter stages played in Sri Lanka. He expects BCCI to adopt a positive approach. Furthermore, he has been a long believer in the fact that sports should not get embroiled in politics. Whether or not two countries get along has nothing to do with sports.

"Cricket should be free of politics. If you don't get along with another country, that's another matter, but politics should not be involved in sport."  

At this stage, it is hard to ascertain the fate of the Champions Trophy. PCB remains adamant about its position to host all Champions Trophy matches inside Pakistan but it is also clear that BCCI will not make any decisive move on this matter without the clearance from their government. 

See also: Watch: Bangladeshi and Pakistani cricketers' hilarious interview moments

While Jay Shah is set to leave the secretary post of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to start his journey as the next chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), then who will be the next BCCI secretary?

Last August, Jay Shah was elected unopposed for the next ICC chairman post. He will start the new role officially on December 1, after Greg Barclay ends his second tenure as the ICC chairman. Shah is going to be the youngest ICC chairman. He is set to be the fifth Indian to become the ICC chairman. 

Two names in strong candidates

Now, the BCCI needs a new secretary as Shah has to leave this role to become the ICC chairman. According to recent media reports, there are two strong candidates to take up this role. 

One name is Rohan Jaitley, the present President of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA). The other name is Anil Patel, the present secretary of the Gujarat Cricket Association.

An India Today report claims that there will be no Special General Meeting (SGM) for the appointment of the next BCCI secretary.  

According to the India Today report, Rohan Jaitley is the favourite to take up the next BCCI secretary role. He started his journey in cricket administration four years ago after becoming the new DDCA President. His father was the previous DDCA President who held the role for 14 years. 

Rohan Jaitley's experience in the DDCA

Under Rohan Jaitley’s tenure, the DDCA has experienced massive improvement. His tenure successfully hosted five matches of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. 

Jaitley also played an important role in successfully organise the first edition of the Delhi Premier League. Rishabh Pant, Ishant Sharma, etc were the popular faces in the first edition of the tournament.  

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has given a big boost to Indian athletes preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics by donating Rs 8.5 crore (about $1.03 million) to the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

This money will help the Indian team in their campaign at the Paris Olympics, starting on July 26.

Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary shared this news on his ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) account. He said he’s proud that the BCCI is supporting the amazing athletes representing India at this prestigious event. The BCCI’s funds will help the IOA with their preparations and logistics for the Olympics.

“I am proud to announce that the @BCCI will be supporting our incredible athletes representing #India at the 2024 Paris Olympics. We are providing INR 8.5 Crores to the IOA for the campaign. To our entire contingent, we wish you the very best. Make India proud! Jai Hind!” he wrote on x

India plans to send 117 athletes to compete in various sports at the Paris Games. Along with them, 140 support staff will also go, making the total team size 257 members.

The BCCI’s financial help will strengthen the efforts of Indian athletes and support staff as they aim for excellence on the world stage. Jay Shah also wished the entire Indian team good luck, encouraging them to make the nation proud.

This financial support shows the BCCI’s commitment to promoting and supporting Indian athletes in various sports.

According to PTI, the International Cricket Council (ICC) encountered a substantial financial setback, losing approximately USD 20 million (Rs 167 crore) while hosting the T20 World Cup 2024 games in the USA.

This issue is expected to be a major discussion point at the ICC Annual Conference starting Friday in Colombo. While it is not on the nine-point agenda of the Annual General Meeting (AGM), it will be addressed as part of a “post-event report.”

Financial losses from the T20 World Cup

A significant portion of the T20 World Cup, including the highly anticipated India-Pakistan match in New York, was held in the USA. The financial losses incurred will be scrutinized during the conference. The ICC’s decision to host major matches in the USA aimed to expand cricket’s global reach but resulted in unexpected financial challenges.

Many matches throughout the World Cup were abandoned due to rain, with a significant number of cancellations occurring in the USA due to cyclonic weather in Florida. As a result, the ICC lost ticket revenues from those matches and suffered a substantial loss.

SEE ALSO:All you need to know about Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024: From squad details to  live streaming

Will Jay Shah lead the ICC?

Another critical topic for discussion during the AGM is the potential replacement of ICC chairman Greg Barclay by BCCI secretary Jay Shah. According to PTI, an ICC source mentioned that there is keen interest in Shah’s transition to the leadership of the world body.

“It is not about how but when, as he still has one year left as BCCI secretary before his cooling-off period in the Indian board starts in 2025 as per the constitution,” the source said.

There is speculation about changing the chairmanship term from three terms of two years each to two terms of three years each, which would facilitate Shah’s transition from BCCI to ICC. If Shah emerges as a contender for the ICC role, current chairman Greg Barclay may have to leave his post before the end of his tenure.

NEW DELHI: The upcoming ICC Annual Conference in Colombo, starting on Friday, promises to be a pivotal event for the cricketing world. Attention will be focused on BCCI secretary Jay Shah, as discussions may intensify regarding his potential succession of New Zealander Greg Barclay as chairman of the global body.

A major topic expected to dominate the conference is the financial losses the ICC incurred from hosting T20 World Cup games in the United States.

Reports indicate that the losses exceed USD 20 million. Although the nine-point agenda of the AGM does not explicitly mention the financial details, they will be addressed as part of a “post-event report,” a standard operating procedure. The agenda also includes the appointment of ICC’s new external auditor, discussions on ICC memberships, reports from associate members’ meetings, and the presentation of ICC development awards.

An important issue that is not on the ICC Board’s official agenda but might be raised under “Any Other Business” is India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. According to an ICC source, a key point of interest is when Jay Shah will assume leadership of the global body. The source stated, “It is not about how but when, as he still has one year left as BCCI secretary before his cooling-off period in the Indian board begins in 2025, as per the constitution.”

SEE ALSO:Former Sri Lanka Under-19 skipper Dhammika Niroshana shot dead at age 41

Potential changes to ICC Chairmanship terms to conform Jay Shah

However, if Jay Shah is to take over in 2025, Barclay will not be able to complete his third term from December 2024 to December 2026. Speculation suggests that the ICC might change the chairmanship term from three terms of two years each to two terms of three years, maintaining the cumulative six-year term. This change would allow Shah to complete his tenure as BCCI secretary and assume the ICC chairmanship in 2025 for three years during his cooling-off period from the BCCI. Subsequently, in 2028, he could return and take over as BCCI president.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Sunday that it would release INR 1 crore as financial assistance for the treatment of former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad who is battling blood cancer at a medical facility in London. This decision came after heartfelt appeals from former teammates, including Kapil Dev and Sandip Patil.

Emotional appeals from cricket legends

Anshuman Gaekwad’s condition was first brought to light by Sandip Patil earlier this month. Patil revealed that Gaekwad, the son of former India captain D.K. Gaekwad, is undergoing treatment for blood cancer at King’s College Hospital in London. Patil also disclosed that Gaekwad himself had reached out for financial assistance, prompting former India cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar to speak with BCCI treasurer Ashish Selar.

In a further bid to support their former teammate, 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev publicly urged the BCCI for financial aid. Kapil highlighted his efforts to arrange funds for Gaekwad, with the support of other cricket legends like Mohinder Amarnath, Sunil Gavaskar, Sandeep Patil, Dilip Vengsarkar, Madan Lal, Ravi Shastri, and Kirti Azad.

“Mr. Jay Shah has instructed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to release ₹1 crore with immediate effect to provide financial assistance to India’s veteran cricketer Mr Anshuman Gaekwad, who is battling cancer,” BCCI apex council said in a statement.

“Shah has also spoken to Mr Gaekwad’s family to take stock of the situation and extend support. The board stands by Gaekwad’s family in this hour of crisis and will do whatever is essential for Mr Gaekwad’s quick recovery The BCCI will continue to monitor Mr Gaekwad’s progress and is confident that he will come out of this phase strongly,” the board’s statement added.

Anshuman Gaekwad’s cricketing legacy

The 71-year-old Anshuman Gaekwad has a distinguished cricketing career, having played 40 Tests and 15 ODIs for India between 1975 and 1987. In Test cricket, he scored 1,985 runs, which included two centuries and ten fifties. In the 50-over format, he amassed 269 runs. Known for his solid technique and resilience, Gaekwad made significant contributions to Indian cricket during his playing years.

See Also: Yuvraj Singh reveals his all-time XI – No spot for MS Dhoni! – Cricket Winner

The BCCI’s timely financial assistance is a testament to the strong bonds and support system within the cricketing community. The collective efforts of Gaekwad’s former teammates underscore the deep camaraderie and respect they hold for one another, both on and off the field.

Rahul Dravid, often hailed as the “gentleman” of cricket, has once again demonstrated his exemplary character by deciding to forgo half of his INR 5 crore prize money from the T20 World Cup winnings. This gesture underscores his commitment to fairness and equality, resonating with his long-standing values both on and off the field.

A selfless act for equality

After Rohit Sharma’s men triumphed over South Africa in the final to secure the T20 World Cup title, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a substantial cash reward of Rs. 125 crore for the team, coaching staff, and support staff. The head coach, Rahul Dravid, was allocated INR 5 crore from this pool, while other coaches were to receive Rs. 2.5 crore each.

However, in a move reflecting his selfless nature, Dravid requested the BCCI to reduce his bonus to Rs. 2.5 crore, aligning his reward with those of the batting, bowling, and fielding coaches. “Rahul wanted the same bonus money (Rs. 2.5 crore) as the rest of his support staff (bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, fielding coach T Dilip, and batting coach Vikram Rathore). We respect his sentiments,” a BCCI source revealed.

A consistent advocate for fairness

This isn’t the first time Dravid has taken such a stance. Back in 2018, as the head coach of India’s victorious U-19 World Cup team, he was set to receive INR 50 lakh, while other support staff members were to get Rs. 20 lakh each, and players Rs. 30 lakh each. Dravid rejected this uneven distribution, prompting the BCCI to revise the awards, ensuring every member of the support staff, including Dravid, received INR 25 lakh.

See Also: Gautam Gambhir appointed as new head coach of Indian Cricket team – Cricket Winner

Throughout his career, Dravid has consistently put the interests of the team first. His recent gesture of reducing his bonus money once again highlights his dedication to fairness and his unwavering support for his colleagues. Even in his coaching role, Dravid continues to set a benchmark for integrity and selflessness, earning admiration and respect from all quarters.

Rahul Dravid recently wrapped up his time as head coach of India’s men’s cricket team. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah shared heartfelt thanks and appreciation for Dravid’s efforts in a post on the social media platform ‘X’, bidding farewell to the T20 World Cup-winning coach.

Dravid’s career soared from his playing days to coaching, culminating in the T20 World Cup victory as coach, a significant milestone for the former Indian captain.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah gratitude to Rahul Dravid

“I express my sincere thanks and gratitude to Mr Rahul Dravid whose highly successful tenure as the Head Coach draws to a close. Under his guidance, #TeamIndia, emerged as a dominant force across formats, including being crowned ICC Men’s T20 World Cup champions.”

“His strategic acumen, persistent efforts to nurture talent and exemplary leadership has instilled a culture of excellence within the team and that is also the legacy his leaves behind. The Indian dressing room today is one cohesive unit standing together through challenges while revelling in each other’s success“he added.

Dravid’s legacy in T20 World Cup triumph

Though he missed out on the ODI World Cup title during his playing days, Dravid’s legacy as one of cricket’s finest batsmen remains intact.

During his tenure, India rose to the top spot in both Tests and ODIs. Winning the T20 World Cup was the pinnacle of Dravid’s time with Team India.

Despite initial hesitations about continuing as coach, Dravid was persuaded by captain Rohit Sharma to stay on until the T20 World Cup, where he left a lasting impact.

The players of Team India and their head coach Rahul Dravid will each get Rs 5 crore from the Rs 125 crore prize money announced by the BCCI after winning the T20 World Cup 2024.

The BCCI has given a Rs 125 crore cash prize to Team India’s players, coaches, support staff, and senior selection committee members for winning the T20 World Cup 2024.

Breakdown of Rs 125 crore reward distribution

Most of the reward will go to the players and head coach Rahul Dravid. According to the Indian Express, the 15 main squad players, including those who didn’t play a match, and Dravid will each get Rs 5 crore. The three players who didn’t play a match are Yuzvendra Chahal, Sanju Samson, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Dravid’s coaching staff – batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip – will each get Rs 2.5 crore. The five-member senior selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, will each get Rs 1 crore.

Team India’s four reserve players – Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed – will each get Rs 1 crore.

The team’s three physiotherapists (Kamlesh Jain, Yogesh Parmar, and Thulasi Ram Yuvraj), three throwdown specialists (Raghavindraa Dvgi, Nuwan Udeneke, and Dayanand Garani), two masseurs (Rajeev Kumar and Arun Kanade), and the strength and conditioning coach (Soham Desai) will each get Rs 2 crore.

“Players and support staff have been told about the prize money they will get from the BCCI and have been asked to submit an invoice,” said a BCCI source.

The report noted that the Indian contingent for the 2024 T20 World Cup comprised 42 people. In addition to players, coaches, support staff, and selectors, the video analyst, BCCI staff members, media officers, and logistics manager will also receive rewards.

Team India have been left stranded in Barbados after winning the T20 World Cup 2024, as Hurricane Beryl has escalated into an “extremely dangerous” Category 4 storm. Initially expected to pass by Barbados on Sunday night local time, the hurricane has forced the closure of the airport, disrupting the Indian cricket team’s plans to fly to New York on Monday morning local time. The team, along with their family members, are currently staying at the Hilton Hotel in Barbados.

Jay Shah updates about the team

Hurricane Beryl has maximum sustained winds of 210 kmph, making it a severe weather event. BCCI officials, including General Secretary Jay Shah, are also in Barbados with the team, staying at the same hotel. They are planning to arrange a charter flight directly to Delhi, but this will not be possible until the airport reopens.

In a media interaction, Jay Shah revealed that the team is “stuck” in Barbados, which has delayed any plans for a felicitation ceremony once they reach India. “Like you we are also stuck here. After the travel plans are clear, we will think about the felicitation,” Shah told reporters in Barbados.

It has been reported that the Indian cricket team will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi upon their arrival. Meanwhile, the BCCI has announced a Rs 125 crore prize money for Team India in celebration of their T20 World Cup 2024 victory.

“The BCCI is coordinating to ensure the entire contingent reaches back home safely”

The initial travel plan for Team India involved flying to New York and then to Dubai before reaching India. However, due to the delay caused by the hurricane, the team is now likely to take a charter flight. The Hilton Hotel, where the team is staying, is near the coast and services at the hotel have also been impacted by the storm.

“Like everywhere, services are affected at the team hotel too. The airport is shut so no clarity on departure as of now because of the extremely dangerous hurricane. The BCCI is coordinating to ensure the entire contingent reaches back home safely,” Jay Shah added.

See Also: [Watch] Rahul Dravid asks for job offers; Here is why? – Cricket Winner

The entire Indian contingent, including players, family members, support staff, and BCCI officials, comprises around 70 people. The situation remains precarious as they await further developments and the reopening of the airport to facilitate their departure.