CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has ignored the CoA’s order that outstation players can’t take part in T20 leagues conducted by state associations. It is going by the BCCI’s special general meeting held on June 22, where it was decided that two non-capped players who didn’t play in the 2018 IPL can be allowed per team.
The CoA has already informed the Supreme Court that the June 22 SGM was void because it was conducted without its approval. Sources confirmed that the CoA is viewing TNCA’s action as a violation and preparing for the next step, which might mean bringing this to the notice of the court, which is due to hear the BCCI case on Thursday. Approval of its constitution is among matters listed.
Incidentally, the BCCI was in the past against outstation players in these T20 leagues. Last year, plans to have a few in the TNPL were shot down at the last moment. The argument was, such competitions would become a rival to the IPL. At the TNPL launch on Wednesday, a TNCA official explained why they are not obeying the CoA’s directive, which was sent to all state associations on Tuesday.
“We’re talking about only 16 players (2 each in 8 teams), who didn’t get a chance in the previous IPL. We don’t think it will affect the IPL because none of the players in question took part in the 2018 edition. We hope the CoA considers this,” said a TNCA official.
If the court deems the SGM invalid, the process of including outstation players has to be scrapped, which will lead to confusion. “We’ll think about it if that’s the case,” said the official.
atreyo@newindianexpress.com