Johri letter allays ECB fears
CHENNAI: Just like before the Test series between India and England, efforts were apparently made from India to raise concerns with the England and Wales Cricket Board regarding hosting of the limited-overs series.
As reported by this newspaper on Monday, there were whispers that former BCCI officials were in touch with ECB president Giles Clarke to stall the series, although this could not be ascertained. However, a series of emails between the ECB and BCCI did indicate there was some kind of conversation raising concerns about daily allowance, security and logistical matters.
The emails between the ECB and BCCI Chief Executive Officer Rahul Johri indicates that a top former official spoke about whether the BCCI and the relevant associations would have “funds” and “expertise” to handle security and other matters after the Supreme Court froze BCCI’s account and sacked its president and secretary.
According to an email sent by Clarke to Johri on January 6 (copy of which is with Express), former BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke called him up, raising concerns about board’s ability to host the series properly. Shirke was removed as secretary on January 2.
“I have received calls from Mr Shirke who I understand is no longer the Honorary Secretary of BCCI. Can you please confirm to me that the England team will continue to be looked after by the BCCI in the usual fashion, with proper security, player daily allowance payments, hotel bills covered and the like, with transport organised at all times.
Obviously, it is entirely a matter for the BCCI where matches are played, but please advice at the soonest that the schedule will be adhered to, or any changes.”
Johri responded to Clarke’s concerns, saying, “We have been in touch with all the hosting centres and they have expressed confidence that the games will be managed successfully, just like always, and as on date, we do not anticipate any form of disruption to the series.”
Johri also asked Clarke what Shirke had communicated to him over phone. Clarke, in his response dated January 7, wrote back: “His concern was the BCCI and the relevant association having funds and expertise to manage security and safety of our players, and transport, allowances, all usual issues for a tour.”
venkatakrishna@newindianexpress.com