Prithvi Shaw was on Tuesday suspended for eight months by India's governing body for a doping violation, with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-prithvi-shaw-rishabh-pant-help-delhi-sink-hyderabad-inch-closer-to-ipl-final-217125">teenage batting sensation</a> saying he was shaken by the news and would return to the game "faster and stronger".

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ruled that the 19-year-old "inadvertently ingested a prohibited substance, which can commonly be found in cough syrups".

The suspension was backdated to mid-March, meaning Shaw will be eligible for selection after November 15.

The BCCI added in its statement that Shaw's urine sample collected on February 22 in Indore was "found to contain terbutaline".

"Terbutaline, a specified substance, is prohibited both in and out of competition in the WADA Prohibited List of Substances," it added.

The governing body added that it was satisfied Shaw had taken the substance to treat respiratory infection and not as a performance-enhancing drug.

Shaw said in a statement on Twitter that "the news has really shaken me".

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"I accept my fate with all sincerity," he said, adding that the suspension was a reminder of the risk for professional athletes of taking medicine for illnesses.

"Cricket is my life and there is no bigger pride for me than playing for India and Mumbai and I will come out of this faster and stronger," he said.

Shaw -- often compared to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar -- is nursing a hip injury and was not picked for India's tour to the West Indies in August.

Prithvi Shaw was on Tuesday suspended for eight months by India's governing body for a doping violation, with the teenage batting sensation saying he was shaken by the news and would return to the game "faster and stronger".

Prithvi Shaw was on Tuesday suspended for eight months by India's governing body for a doping violation, with the teenage batting sensation saying he was shaken by the news and would return to the game "faster and stronger". The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ruled that the 19-year-old "inadvertently ingested a prohibited substance, which can commonly be found in cough syrups". The suspension was backdated to mid-March, meaning Shaw will be eligible for selection after November 15. The BCCI added in its statement that Shaw's urine sample collected on February 22 in Indore was "found to contain terbutaline". "Terbutaline, a specified substance, is prohibited both in and out of competition in the WADA Prohibited List of Substances," it added. The governing body added that it was satisfied Shaw had taken the substance to treat respiratory infection and not as a performance-enhancing drug. Shaw said in a statement on Twitter that "the news has really shaken me". pic.twitter.com/KXYHcUcBR0 — Prithvi Shaw (@PrithviShaw) July 30, 2019 × "I accept my fate with all sincerity," he said, adding that the suspension was a reminder of the risk for professional athletes of taking medicine for illnesses. "Cricket is my life and there is no bigger pride for me than playing for India and Mumbai and I will come out of this faster and stronger," he said. Shaw -- often compared to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar -- is nursing a hip injury and was not picked for India's tour to the West Indies in August.

BCCI hands Prithvi Shaw back-dated suspension of 8 months for failing dope test

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-pre-departure-press-conference-by-indian-team-ahead-of-west-indies-tour-238984">Indian skipper Virat Kohli</a> on Monday said that will be very happy if <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-invites-applications-for-mens-head-coach-to-replace-ravi-shastri-236389">Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach</a>.

"The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet. If they want my opinion, I'll go and speak to them. With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," Kohli told reporters before leaving for West Indies.

The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) has invited applications for the position of the head coach for the men's cricket team, which has been held by foreign coaches in 15 out of the last 17 years.

In a statement, the BCCI said it was inviting applications for the positions of head coach, batting coach, bowling coach, fielding coach, physiotherapist, strength and conditioning coach as well as an administrative manager.

Former India all-rounder Shastri was appointed in 2017 and succeeded former captain Anil Kumble, who stepped down after a falling out with skipper Virat Kohli despite a successful run while in charge of the team.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/after-shastri-who-foreign-coaches-who-can-help-power-indias-world-cup-dream-in-2023-236472#ravi-shastris-term-ends-236388">Also see:&nbsp;After Shastri who? Foreign coaches who can help power India's World Cup dream in 2023</a>

Under Shastri's guidance, India won a maiden Test series in Australia earlier this year and are ranked number one in the world in the format.

The contract of the current coaching staff is set to expire after the tour of the West Indies starting August 3, where India play three T20 internationals, three ODIs and two Tests.

The deadline for the applications end on July 30.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday said that will be very happy if Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach. "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Monday said that will be very happy if Ravi Shastri continues to be team head coach. "The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) hasn't contacted me yet. If they want my opinion, I'll go and speak to them. With Ravi Bhai, we share a great camaraderie, and will definitely be very happy if he continues. But I haven't been contacted so far," Kohli told reporters before leaving for West Indies. The Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) has invited applications for the position of the head coach for the men's cricket team, which has been held by foreign coaches in 15 out of the last 17 years. In a statement, the BCCI said it was inviting applications for the positions of head coach, batting coach, bowling coach, fielding coach, physiotherapist, strength and conditioning coach as well as an administrative manager. Former India all-rounder Shastri was appointed in 2017 and succeeded former captain Anil Kumble, who stepped down after a falling out with skipper Virat Kohli despite a successful run while in charge of the team. Also see: After Shastri who? Foreign coaches who can help power India's World Cup dream in 2023 Under Shastri's guidance, India won a maiden Test series in Australia earlier this year and are ranked number one in the world in the format. The contract of the current coaching staff is set to expire after the tour of the West Indies starting August 3, where India play three T20 internationals, three ODIs and two Tests. The deadline for the applications end on July 30.

Will be happy to have Ravi bhai as coach, will tell CAC: Virat Kohli

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-conferred-with-maldives-highest-honour-accorded-to-foreign-dignitaries-order-of-nishanizzuddeen-225498">Narendra Modi </a>said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-ibrahim-solih-hails-india-maldives-relations-225509">country to consolidate people-to-people relations</a>.

Modi gifted a cricket bat to Solih signed by the Indian cricket team after holding bilateral talks.

"Connected by cricket! My friend, President Solih is an ardent cricket fan, so I presented him a cricket bat that has been signed by Team India playing at the CWC2019," Modi said on Twitter.

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India is helping in training Maldivian cricket players and bringing it up to the requisite standard, the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Thursday.

India is also looking into constructing a stadium in the Island nation which is another request made by it, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

He said the ministry is working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to train Maldivian cricketers.

"A team from the BCCI visited the Maldives earlier in May for the training of Maldivian cricketers, organising coaching programmes and supply of kits," he said.

To consolidate people-to-people relations, Modi's latest emphasis is on cricket diplomacy in the island nation, helping the mission of President Solih to develop cricket, official sources said.

In April, Solih attended an Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Bengaluru and subsequently expressed interest to develop a cricket team in the Maldives and sought India's assistance in training this team and bringing it up to the requisite standard.

Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister to strengthen the bilateral ties.

While Modi visited the Maldives in November 2018 to attend President Solih's swearing-in, this visit is the first by an Indian prime minister at a bilateral level in eight years.

The two-day state visit of Prime Minister Modi is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago.

India in March assured the Maldives that it will "positively consider" its request to help build a cricket stadium in the island nation during then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit.

A joint statement at the end of Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March said that the Maldivian side requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium.

"The Indian side agreed to positively consider the request," it said.

Cricket Board of Maldives governs the gentleman's game in the island nation. It became a member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate of the International Cricket Council in 1998.

The Maldives national cricket team represents the country in international cricket. It made its Twenty20 International debut in January this year after the

International Cricket Council decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members.

Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the country to consolidate people-to-people relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India will help promote cricket in the Maldives and fulfil President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's mission to develop the sport in the country to consolidate people-to-people relations. Modi gifted a cricket bat to Solih signed by the Indian cricket team after holding bilateral talks. "Connected by cricket! My friend, President Solih is an ardent cricket fan, so I presented him a cricket bat that has been signed by Team India playing at the CWC2019," Modi said on Twitter. India is helping in training Maldivian cricket players and bringing it up to the requisite standard, the External Affairs Ministry said in New Delhi on Thursday. India is also looking into constructing a stadium in the Island nation which is another request made by it, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. He said the ministry is working with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to train Maldivian cricketers. "A team from the BCCI visited the Maldives earlier in May for the training of Maldivian cricketers, organising coaching programmes and supply of kits," he said. To consolidate people-to-people relations, Modi's latest emphasis is on cricket diplomacy in the island nation, helping the mission of President Solih to develop cricket, official sources said. In April, Solih attended an Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Bengaluru and subsequently expressed interest to develop a cricket team in the Maldives and sought India's assistance in training this team and bringing it up to the requisite standard. Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday on his first foreign visit after re-election as Prime Minister to strengthen the bilateral ties. While Modi visited the Maldives in November 2018 to attend President Solih's swearing-in, this visit is the first by an Indian prime minister at a bilateral level in eight years. The two-day state visit of Prime Minister Modi is aimed at further cementing ties with the Indian Ocean archipelago. India in March assured the Maldives that it will "positively consider" its request to help build a cricket stadium in the island nation during then External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit. A joint statement at the end of Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March said that the Maldivian side requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium. "The Indian side agreed to positively consider the request," it said. Cricket Board of Maldives governs the gentleman's game in the island nation. It became a member of the Asian Cricket Council and an affiliate of the International Cricket Council in 1998. The Maldives national cricket team represents the country in international cricket. It made its Twenty20 International debut in January this year after the International Cricket Council decided to grant full Twenty20 International (T20I) status to all its members. Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with an approximate strength of around 22,000.

Focus on cricket diplomacy as PM Modi gifts bat to Maldives President Solih

The elections for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=bcci">Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)</a> will be held on October 22, 2019, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) announced on Tuesday.

The election process will begin from June 30, 2019, as on this date appointment of the electoral officer by BCCI will be done and electoral protocol will be prepared by the electoral officer of BCCI in consultation with the CoA and it will be communicated to all state associations.

The appointment of the electoral officer will be done by respective State Associations on July 1.

On August 14, the process of preparation of the list of members, protocol and electoral roll of the State Associations by the electoral officer will be completed.

The elections of the state associations will be completed on September 14.

The names of representatives of the State Associations to the BCCI will be done on 23rd September.

The preparation of the electoral roll of nominees qualified for the BCCI elections will be done on September 30.

And finally, the elections of BCCI will be done on October 22.

The Supreme Court-appointed CoA that currently consists of chief Vinod Rai and members Diana Edulji and Lt General Ravi Thodge, have now run Indian cricket for more than two years.&nbsp;

The elections for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will be held on October 22, 2019, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) announced on Tuesday. The election process will begin from June 30, 2019, as on this date appointment of the electoral officer by BCCI will be done and electoral protocol will be prepared by the electoral officer of BCCI in consultation with the CoA and it will be communicated to all state associations.

The elections for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will be held on October 22, 2019, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) announced on Tuesday. The election process will begin from June 30, 2019, as on this date appointment of the electoral officer by BCCI will be done and electoral protocol will be prepared by the electoral officer of BCCI in consultation with the CoA and it will be communicated to all state associations. The appointment of the electoral officer will be done by respective State Associations on July 1. On August 14, the process of preparation of the list of members, protocol and electoral roll of the State Associations by the electoral officer will be completed. The elections of the state associations will be completed on September 14. The names of representatives of the State Associations to the BCCI will be done on 23rd September. The preparation of the electoral roll of nominees qualified for the BCCI elections will be done on September 30. And finally, the elections of BCCI will be done on October 22. The Supreme Court-appointed CoA that currently consists of chief Vinod Rai and members Diana Edulji and Lt General Ravi Thodge, have now run Indian cricket for more than two years.

BCCI elections to take place on October 22

The goose that lays the golden eggs in Indian cricket is finally going to have a say in the running of the game in the country with a national players' association inching closer to becoming a reality.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has traditionally abhorred the idea of a players' association, regarding it completely unnecessary and potentially troublesome.

On rare occasions when such a body was mooted, top players usually stayed away as joining it would mean incurring the wrath of the world's richest cricket board.

Things changed two years ago when the country's top court put a Committee of Administrators in charge following the board's failure to implement administrative reforms suggested by a panel led by former chief justice R.M. Lodha.

One of the key recommendations of the Lodha committee was to form a players' union and subsequently a steering committee was formed to facilitate the process.

Former India batsman Anshuman Gaekwad, a member of the committee, said the paperwork was nearly complete and before long <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-exceptionally-open-to-ideas-vettori-216524&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjc2d2EpoviAhW363MBHXHTDssQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3IVf4svofoGt8_GPesDc5h">Virat Kohli</a> and his India teammates would have a voice in things that affect their career.

"We're going to have an association very soon. It's very important for the players," Gaekwad told Reuters by telephone.

A gutsy opening batsman who played 40 tests between 1975-85, Gaekwad regretted not having such players' body during his cricketing days.

"We tried it twice in the 1970s but it did not work out," he added.

BCCI Chief Executive Rahul Johri did not immediately respond to call and message seeking comment.

A stronger effort was made in early 2000 when Indian Cricket Players' Association (ICPA) was floated with former captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi as its president.

But the ICPA too failed to attract the top players and fizzled out.

"It did not work out because the BCCI was against it," former India opener Arun Lal, who was the ICPA vice-president, told Reuters from Kolkata.

"The players were scared of the board, which is only natural. It's hardly expected of a young cricketer to do something if the secretary of his state association warns him against it. The board always had an antagonistic approach to a players' association. They saw it like a trade union movement", Lal said.

Lal, who played 16 tests for India, said a players' body was integral to the game across the globe.

"More than anything else, the cricketers then become responsible for their game.&nbsp;At the moment, a cricketer is just a player. But once an association comes into being, he's a partner in taking the game forward'',&nbsp;the 63-year-old added.

"Players then become more responsible and aware of their duty to retain cricket's more than 200 years of legacy and not bring disrepute to the game", he said.

The Federation of International Cricketers Associations (FICA) welcomed the possibility of having an Indian players' body in the coming months.

"The existence of a body that can collectively represent the players in India, the world's biggest cricket economy, is an important step forward for the game," the global players' representative body said in a statement.

"It is critical that players are involved in the development and governance of any association set up to collectively represent them, in order to ensure its effectiveness," FICA executive chairman Tony Irish said.

"We would welcome a player-established Indian cricketers' association, which meets our membership and minimum standards requirements, into FICA and as part of the global collective of the world's cricketers", Irish said.

The goose that lays the golden eggs in Indian cricket is finally going to have a say in the running of the game in the country with a national players' association inching closer to becoming a reality.

The goose that lays the golden eggs in Indian cricket is finally going to have a say in the running of the game in the country with a national players' association inching closer to becoming a reality. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has traditionally abhorred the idea of a players' association, regarding it completely unnecessary and potentially troublesome. On rare occasions when such a body was mooted, top players usually stayed away as joining it would mean incurring the wrath of the world's richest cricket board. Things changed two years ago when the country's top court put a Committee of Administrators in charge following the board's failure to implement administrative reforms suggested by a panel led by former chief justice R.M. Lodha. One of the key recommendations of the Lodha committee was to form a players' union and subsequently a steering committee was formed to facilitate the process. Former India batsman Anshuman Gaekwad, a member of the committee, said the paperwork was nearly complete and before long Virat Kohli and his India teammates would have a voice in things that affect their career. "We're going to have an association very soon. It's very important for the players," Gaekwad told Reuters by telephone. A gutsy opening batsman who played 40 tests between 1975-85, Gaekwad regretted not having such players' body during his cricketing days. "We tried it twice in the 1970s but it did not work out," he added. BCCI Chief Executive Rahul Johri did not immediately respond to call and message seeking comment. A stronger effort was made in early 2000 when Indian Cricket Players' Association (ICPA) was floated with former captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi as its president. But the ICPA too failed to attract the top players and fizzled out. "It did not work out because the BCCI was against it," former India opener Arun Lal, who was the ICPA vice-president, told Reuters from Kolkata. "The players were scared of the board, which is only natural. It's hardly expected of a young cricketer to do something if the secretary of his state association warns him against it. The board always had an antagonistic approach to a players' association. They saw it like a trade union movement", Lal said. Lal, who played 16 tests for India, said a players' body was integral to the game across the globe. "More than anything else, the cricketers then become responsible for their game. At the moment, a cricketer is just a player. But once an association comes into being, he's a partner in taking the game forward'', the 63-year-old added. "Players then become more responsible and aware of their duty to retain cricket's more than 200 years of legacy and not bring disrepute to the game", he said. The Federation of International Cricketers Associations (FICA) welcomed the possibility of having an Indian players' body in the coming months. "The existence of a body that can collectively represent the players in India, the world's biggest cricket economy, is an important step forward for the game," the global players' representative body said in a statement. "It is critical that players are involved in the development and governance of any association set up to collectively represent them, in order to ensure its effectiveness," FICA executive chairman Tony Irish said. "We would welcome a player-established Indian cricketers' association, which meets our membership and minimum standards requirements, into FICA and as part of the global collective of the world's cricketers", Irish said.

Kohli & Co go from mute golden goose to vocal stakeholders as Players' Association is on the cards

India's young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was Sunday caught in the eye of a storm owing to an edited stump microphone clip from an IPL game which went viral on social media but was dismissed by the BCCI as "misconstrued".

The less-than-a-minute long clip was from <a href="Was Delhi vs Kolkata match fixed? Twitter says so, posts proof also">Saturday night's match between Pant's Delhi and Kolkata</a>.

It shows Pant, from behind the stumps, saying that "yeh to chauka hai" (this is a boundary) as Kolkata's Robin Uthappa took guard against Sandeep Lamichhane. Delhi won the match in Super Over after the scores were tied in the regulation overs.

"No one heard what Rishabh said before that particular sentence. He was apparently telling (Delhi captain) Shreyas Iyer to increase fielders on off-side to stop an imminent four," a top BCCI official told PTI.

The next delivery was pushed through the covers for a boundary and the edited clip of Pant's purported prediction started doing the rounds from unverified Twitter accounts, claiming to be cricket fans.

What wasn't clear from the video clip was the context of Pant's comment.

It has been learnt that Hotstar, who hold the digital (streaming rights) rights of the IPL, have complained to various social media platforms for illegal use of their footage and are getting the clippings removed.

The BCCI official said that it was "very unfortunate" that social media ran an incomplete clipping.

"Maligning a young cricketer without even knowing the details is so unfortunate. A section of media allowed social media to insinuate and vilify a young talent without getting into details. This is so disgusting," said the official.

This isn't the first time that stump microphone has pushed Pant into the spotlight. During his highly successful tour of Australia, Pant's humourous teasing of rival batsmen, especially Aussie captain Tim Paine, went viral on social media.

India's young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was Sunday caught in the eye of a storm owing to an edited stump microphone clip from an IPL game which went viral on social media but was dismissed by the BCCI as "misconstrued".

India's young wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was Sunday caught in the eye of a storm owing to an edited stump microphone clip from an IPL game which went viral on social media but was dismissed by the BCCI as "misconstrued". The less-than-a-minute long clip was from Saturday night's match between Pant's Delhi and Kolkata. It shows Pant, from behind the stumps, saying that "yeh to chauka hai" (this is a boundary) as Kolkata's Robin Uthappa took guard against Sandeep Lamichhane. Delhi won the match in Super Over after the scores were tied in the regulation overs. "No one heard what Rishabh said before that particular sentence. He was apparently telling (Delhi captain) Shreyas Iyer to increase fielders on off-side to stop an imminent four," a top BCCI official told PTI. The next delivery was pushed through the covers for a boundary and the edited clip of Pant's purported prediction started doing the rounds from unverified Twitter accounts, claiming to be cricket fans. What wasn't clear from the video clip was the context of Pant's comment. It has been learnt that Hotstar, who hold the digital (streaming rights) rights of the IPL, have complained to various social media platforms for illegal use of their footage and are getting the clippings removed. The BCCI official said that it was "very unfortunate" that social media ran an incomplete clipping. "Maligning a young cricketer without even knowing the details is so unfortunate. A section of media allowed social media to insinuate and vilify a young talent without getting into details. This is so disgusting," said the official. This isn't the first time that stump microphone has pushed Pant into the spotlight. During his highly successful tour of Australia, Pant's humourous teasing of rival batsmen, especially Aussie captain Tim Paine, went viral on social media.

IPL 2019: BCCI explains Rishabh Pant's stump mic chatter that went viral

The Supreme Court set aside the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committee's order <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/supreme-court-asks-bcci-to-reconsider-life-ban-on-s-sreesanth-consider-his-plea-within-3-months-203437">imposing a life ban</a> on former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth for his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal.&nbsp;

In reaction to the Supreme Court's decision,&nbsp;Sreesanth said, "BCCI has made who I am today. I am not against BCCI, I am just appealing to give me an opportunity."&nbsp;

"Thankful to judges, they were kind enough to hear through the matter for giving me fair opportunity."&nbsp;

A bench comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and KM Joseph said the disciplinary committee of the BCCI&nbsp;may reconsider within three months the quantum of punishment to be given to Sreesanth.&nbsp;

The bench made it clear that the former cricketer will get the opportunity of being heard by the committee on the quantum of the punishment.

"The life ban has been lifted and that's a big thing," Sreesanth said after the ruling.

"The court has given me a huge lifeline and I am happy with the opportunity given to me," said the bowler who was 13 short of 100 Test wickets when he was banned.

"There are so many leagues happening all around the country and cricket is my bread and butter. To take care of my family I need cricket back."

"The Supreme Court has given me a lifeline and it has helped me restore my dignity," said the banned cricketer.&nbsp;

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The apex court also said that its verdict shall have no effect on the criminal proceedings pending against the former cricketer in the Delhi High Court, where the Delhi Police has challenged a trial court's order discharging all accused, including Sreesanth, in the IPL spot-fixing case.&nbsp;

The bench passed this order on Sreesanth's plea challenging the decision of a division bench of the Kerala High Court which had restored the life ban imposed on him by the BCCI.&nbsp;

"I have started to practice and hopefully I will be able to start playing cricket soon enough. I request the BCCI not to take all 90 days to take a decision on the punishment for me," Sreesanth said.&nbsp;

"I have waited long enough, six years. I want to start by playing club cricket and I am hoping to play in the Scottish league, which starts in April," he added.&nbsp;

The BCCI said Friday it respected the court's order and would take up Sreesanth's case in their next meeting.

The 11th edition of the IPL will start on March 23 with a game between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court set aside the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committee's order imposing a life ban on former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth for his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal.

The Supreme Court set aside the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) disciplinary committee's order imposing a life ban on former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth for his alleged involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal. In reaction to the Supreme Court's decision, Sreesanth said, "BCCI has made who I am today. I am not against BCCI, I am just appealing to give me an opportunity." "Thankful to judges, they were kind enough to hear through the matter for giving me fair opportunity." A bench comprising justices Ashok Bhushan and KM Joseph said the disciplinary committee of the BCCI may reconsider within three months the quantum of punishment to be given to Sreesanth. The bench made it clear that the former cricketer will get the opportunity of being heard by the committee on the quantum of the punishment. "The life ban has been lifted and that's a big thing," Sreesanth said after the ruling. "The court has given me a huge lifeline and I am happy with the opportunity given to me," said the bowler who was 13 short of 100 Test wickets when he was banned. "There are so many leagues happening all around the country and cricket is my bread and butter. To take care of my family I need cricket back." "The Supreme Court has given me a lifeline and it has helped me restore my dignity," said the banned cricketer. Spot fixing case: Supreme Court asked the BCCI to reconsider its order of life ban on S Sreesanth (file pic) pic.twitter.com/fgF3iAUDx7 — ANI (@ANI) March 15, 2019 × The apex court also said that its verdict shall have no effect on the criminal proceedings pending against the former cricketer in the Delhi High Court, where the Delhi Police has challenged a trial court's order discharging all accused, including Sreesanth, in the IPL spot-fixing case. The bench passed this order on Sreesanth's plea challenging the decision of a division bench of the Kerala High Court which had restored the life ban imposed on him by the BCCI. "I have started to practice and hopefully I will be able to start playing cricket soon enough. I request the BCCI not to take all 90 days to take a decision on the punishment for me," Sreesanth said. "I have waited long enough, six years. I want to start by playing club cricket and I am hoping to play in the Scottish league, which starts in April," he added. The BCCI said Friday it respected the court's order and would take up Sreesanth's case in their next meeting. The 11th edition of the IPL will start on March 23 with a game between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

I am not against BCCI, just appealing to give me an opportunity: S Sreesanth

A day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pulwama-attack-cricket-club-of-india-covers-imran-khans-portrait-in-its-restaurant-197886">pictures of former and current Pakistani cricketers</a>, including incumbent Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, were removed from a couple of venues in India, the Pakistan Cricket Board has said that it will take up with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during an ICC meeting next month.

In a statement issued late Sunday night, the PCB's Managing Director Wasim Khan said sports has always played a key role in defusing political tensions. The ICC meeting is scheduled to be held in Dubai next month.&nbsp;

"...We have always believed and emphasised that sports and politics should be kept separate. History tells us that sports, particularly cricket, have always played a key role in building bridges between people and countries," Khan said in the statement.

"... Covering or removing portrait of former Pakistan cricket captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan and other legendary cricketers from one of the most historic cricket clubs and venues are highly regrettable actions," he added.

Recently, India announced to have stopped all its bilateral operations and end all ties with Pakistan after a terror attack in Pulwama that killed over &nbsp;40 CRPF Jawans.

In the aftermath, the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai covered a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/pulwama-attack-cricket-club-of-india-covers-imran-khans-portrait-in-its-restaurant-197886">portrait of Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain Imran Khan,</a> while the Punjab Cricket Association removed photographs of Pakistani cricketers from various points inside the Mohali stadium.

The PCB Managing Director also confirmed that Indian production company IMG Reliance pulled out of producing the Pakistan Super League matches.

"We have been informed by IMG Reliance that they will be unable to partner with us for the remaining PSL 2019 and PCB has reserved all its rights. The PCB always had a contingency plan in place...," Khan said.

IMG Reliance had announced its withdrawal as official production partner for PSL as a mark of protest against the Pulwama attack.

A day after pictures of former and current Pakistani cricketers, including incumbent Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, were removed from a couple of venues in India, the Pakistan Cricket Board has said that it will take up with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during an ICC meeting next month.

A day after pictures of former and current Pakistani cricketers, including incumbent Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, were removed from a couple of venues in India, the Pakistan Cricket Board has said that it will take up with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) during an ICC meeting next month. In a statement issued late Sunday night, the PCB's Managing Director Wasim Khan said sports has always played a key role in defusing political tensions. The ICC meeting is scheduled to be held in Dubai next month. "...We have always believed and emphasised that sports and politics should be kept separate. History tells us that sports, particularly cricket, have always played a key role in building bridges between people and countries," Khan said in the statement. "... Covering or removing portrait of former Pakistan cricket captain and Prime Minister Imran Khan and other legendary cricketers from one of the most historic cricket clubs and venues are highly regrettable actions," he added. Recently, India announced to have stopped all its bilateral operations and end all ties with Pakistan after a terror attack in Pulwama that killed over 40 CRPF Jawans. In the aftermath, the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai covered a portrait of Pakistan Prime Minister and former captain Imran Khan, while the Punjab Cricket Association removed photographs of Pakistani cricketers from various points inside the Mohali stadium. The PCB Managing Director also confirmed that Indian production company IMG Reliance pulled out of producing the Pakistan Super League matches. "We have been informed by IMG Reliance that they will be unable to partner with us for the remaining PSL 2019 and PCB has reserved all its rights. The PCB always had a contingency plan in place...," Khan said. IMG Reliance had announced its withdrawal as official production partner for PSL as a mark of protest against the Pulwama attack.

Pictures of Pakistani cricketers covered: PCB says will raise issue with BCCI

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/good-momentum-achieved-in-relations-with-india-china-186424">Good momentum achieved in relations with India: China</a>

A day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concluded his India visit, China's foreign ministry said a good momentum has been achieved in the current China-India relations.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-takes-a-walk-ridges-on-bogibeel-bridge-in-assam-186371">Watch: PM Modi takes a walk, rides on Bogibeel bridge in Assam</a>

PM Modi today inaugurated the rail-road bridge over the Brahmaputra river at Bogibeel near Dibrugarh in Assam today.

The 4.94 km bridge has double line broad gauge rail tracks and upper deck road spread in three lanes. The bridge connects Assam's Dibrugarh to Nharlgun in Itanagar in just four hours.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-bcci-announces-playing-xi-for-boxing-day-test-186410">IND vs AUS: BCCI announces playing XI for Boxing Day Test</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia.

In the list, both openers Murali Vijay and KL Rahul have been dropped while rookies Hanuma Vihari and debutant Mayank Agarwal will be given the opportunity to open, according to Reuters.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rat-hole-mining-rampant-in-meghalaya-despite-ngt-ban-15-labours-still-trapped-186369">After two weeks, 15 miners still trapped in Meghalaya; search operation suspended</a>

There seems to be no hope at the end of the tunnel for the 15 labourers trapped in a coal mine a fortnight ago, as search operations have been suspended by the Meghalaya government for want of high-powered pumps to flush out water from the pit.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/attackers-hit-libya-foreign-ministry-in-tripoli-one-dead-186382">Watch: Attackers hit Libya foreign ministry in Tripoli; 3 dead</a>

Gunfire and explosions rocked Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three people.

A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene.

Good momentum achieved in relations with India: China A day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concluded his India visit, China's foreign ministry said a good momentum has been achieved in the current China-India relations.

Good momentum achieved in relations with India: China A day after Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concluded his India visit, China's foreign ministry said a good momentum has been achieved in the current China-India relations. Watch: PM Modi takes a walk, rides on Bogibeel bridge in Assam PM Modi today inaugurated the rail-road bridge over the Brahmaputra river at Bogibeel near Dibrugarh in Assam today. The 4.94 km bridge has double line broad gauge rail tracks and upper deck road spread in three lanes. The bridge connects Assam's Dibrugarh to Nharlgun in Itanagar in just four hours. IND vs AUS: BCCI announces playing XI for Boxing Day Test The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against Australia. In the list, both openers Murali Vijay and KL Rahul have been dropped while rookies Hanuma Vihari and debutant Mayank Agarwal will be given the opportunity to open, according to Reuters. After two weeks, 15 miners still trapped in Meghalaya; search operation suspended There seems to be no hope at the end of the tunnel for the 15 labourers trapped in a coal mine a fortnight ago, as search operations have been suspended by the Meghalaya government for want of high-powered pumps to flush out water from the pit. Watch: Attackers hit Libya foreign ministry in Tripoli; 3 dead Gunfire and explosions rocked Libya's foreign ministry on Tuesday as attackers stormed the building in the capital Tripoli, killing at least three people. A car bomb exploded in front of the ministry, after which "three or four assailants" entered, the source told AFP from the scene.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Hours after the&nbsp;2nd ODI between India and West Indies ended in a dramatic tie, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remaining three ODIs.&nbsp;

In the squad, pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been inducted while Mohammed Shami has been dropped despite putting up a decent performance yesterday.&nbsp;

The national selection committee had rested Bhuvneshwar and Bumrah after India's Asia Cup triumph and they didn't feature in the two-Test series against the Caribbean side

Umesh Yadav, who was the costliest among all bowlers, has been retained in the squad. Yadav failed to defend 14 runs in the final over in yesterday's game while Shami bowled a brilliant spell and hgave just six runs in the second last over.&nbsp;

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Announcement: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> for last three ODIs against Windies announced. Jasprit Bumrah &amp; Bhuvneshwar Kumar are back in the side <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> <a href="https://t.co/jzuJw4Sana">pic.twitter.com/jzuJw4Sana</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1055398824590499841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India, who lead the five-match series 1-0 after two games, will play the 3rd ODI on Saturday. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Squad:&nbsp;

Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul, Manish Pandey. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hours after the 2nd ODI between India and West Indies ended in a dramatic tie, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remaining three ODIs.

Hours after the 2nd ODI between India and West Indies ended in a dramatic tie, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for the remaining three ODIs. In the squad, pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been inducted while Mohammed Shami has been dropped despite putting up a decent performance yesterday. The national selection committee had rested Bhuvneshwar and Bumrah after India's Asia Cup triumph and they didn't feature in the two-Test series against the Caribbean side Umesh Yadav, who was the costliest among all bowlers, has been retained in the squad. Yadav failed to defend 14 runs in the final over in yesterday's game while Shami bowled a brilliant spell and hgave just six runs in the second last over. Announcement: #TeamIndia for last three ODIs against Windies announced. Jasprit Bumrah & Bhuvneshwar Kumar are back in the side #INDvWI pic.twitter.com/jzuJw4Sana — BCCI (@BCCI) October 25, 2018 × India, who lead the five-match series 1-0 after two games, will play the 3rd ODI on Saturday. Squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ambati Rayudu, Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni (wicket-keeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, Khaleel Ahmed, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul, Manish Pandey.

IND vs WI: Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar return for remaining three ODIs; Shami out

The oustanding tax demand by the income tax department on the Board of Control for Cricket in India may go up to over Rs 860 crore, according to an RTI reply from the department.

In response to an application by RTI activist Subhash Agrawal, the I-T department has given details of the tax demands raised by it on the BCCI and the payments made by the cricket body.

The tax department said the total tax payable by the BCCI till January 9, 2018 was Rs 1325.31 crore for the assessment year 2014-15 of which it had paid Rs 864.78 crore leaving an outstanding tax of Rs 460.52 crore.

The reply said for the year 2015-16, the assessment will be completed and the department is likely to raise a demand of Rs 400 crore on the cricket body, taking the total pending demand to Rs 860.52 crore.

The response of the tax department came after the Central Information Commission directed it to furnish the factual position on the demand pending and the recoveries made for the period sought by Agrawal.

&quot;The commission would also like to draw the attention of the tax recovery authorities about the approach, procedures and extant guidelines followed by the respondent in recovery of arrears of taxes due from the public body (BCCI) and the interest accrued thereon in this particular case vis-a-vis the philosophy pursued in similarly placed matters,&quot; Information Commissioner Bimal Julka said in a recent order.

The answer was in response to a query filed by RTI activist Subhash Agrawal.

The oustanding tax demand by the income tax department on the Board of Control for Cricket in India may go up to over Rs 860 crore, according to an RTI reply from the department. In response to an application by RTI activist Subhash Agrawal, the I-T department has given details of the tax demands raised by it on the BCCI and the payments made by the cricket body. The tax department said the total tax payable by the BCCI till January 9, 2018 was Rs 1325.31 crore for the assessment year 2014-15 of which it had paid Rs 864.78 crore leaving an outstanding tax of Rs 460.52 crore. The reply said for the year 2015-16, the assessment will be completed and the department is likely to raise a demand of Rs 400 crore on the cricket body, taking the total pending demand to Rs 860.52 crore. The response of the tax department came after the Central Information Commission directed it to furnish the factual position on the demand pending and the recoveries made for the period sought by Agrawal. "The commission would also like to draw the attention of the tax recovery authorities about the approach, procedures and extant guidelines followed by the respondent in recovery of arrears of taxes due from the public body (BCCI) and the interest accrued thereon in this particular case vis-a-vis the philosophy pursued in similarly placed matters," Information Commissioner Bimal Julka said in a recent order.

Outstanding tax demand of BCCI may go up to over Rs 860 crore: RTI reply

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was slapped with a fine of Rs 52.24 crore on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The fine was imposed by Competition Commission for anti-competitive practices regarding IPL media rights.&nbsp;

The Commission issued a 44-page order. The order stated that the penalty of Rs 52.24 crore accounts to nearly 4.48 per cent of the Cricket board&#39;s relevant turnover in the last three financial years.&nbsp;

The average turnover of the BCCI for the past three financial years 2013-2016, is Rs 1,164.7 crore.&nbsp;

&quot;The assessment of the Commission clearly brings out that the impugned clause in the IPL (Indian Premier League) Media Rights Agreement has been pursued by BCCI consciously to protect the commercial interest of the bidders of broadcasting rights as well as the economic interest of BCCI,&quot; it said.

The watchdog had penalised the Cricket board with a fine of Rs 52.24 crore in 2013 as well.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

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The fine was imposed by Competition Commission for anti-competitive practices regarding IPL media rights

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was slapped with a fine of Rs 52.24 crore on Wednesday. The fine was imposed by Competition Commission for anti-competitive practices regarding IPL media rights. The Commission issued a 44-page order. The order stated that the penalty of Rs 52.24 crore accounts to nearly 4.48 per cent of the Cricket board's relevant turnover in the last three financial years. The average turnover of the BCCI for the past three financial years 2013-2016, is Rs 1,164.7 crore. "The assessment of the Commission clearly brings out that the impugned clause in the IPL (Indian Premier League) Media Rights Agreement has been pursued by BCCI consciously to protect the commercial interest of the bidders of broadcasting rights as well as the economic interest of BCCI," it said. The watchdog had penalised the Cricket board with a fine of Rs 52.24 crore in 2013 as well. (With inputs from PTI)

Competition Commission penalises BCCI with 52 crore fine over IPL media rights

The BCCI announced Monday the team for the 3-match T20 series against New Zealand, and the team for the first two Tests against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The T20 line-up remains largely the same&nbsp;apart from newcomers Mohammed Siraj and Shreyas Iyer, who will be making their international debuts.&nbsp;

While Dinesh Karthik returns to the team.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> for 3-match T20I series against New Zealand <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a>. The series starts from the 1st of November 2017. <a href="https://t.co/R50PAVCBjW">pic.twitter.com/R50PAVCBjW</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/922349778754707457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The rest of the team inludes captain Virat Kohli, vice-captain Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Manish Pandey, Shreyas Iyer, MS Dhoni (wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ashish Nehra.&nbsp;

ANI reported that Ashish Nehra would play only the first of the three games.&nbsp;

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Ashish Nehra to play only the first t20 match of the series against New Zealand
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/922351092150673408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The series begins on November 1.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> for first two Test matches against Sri Lanka. The 3-match Test series begins from the 16th of November in Kolkata <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvSL</a> <a href="https://t.co/o2Ib0Qjqzf">pic.twitter.com/o2Ib0Qjqzf</a>
&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/922352731800551424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The three-match test series begins November 16 in Kolkata.&nbsp;

The BCCI announced the team for the first two games of the 3-match Test series against Sri Lanka

The BCCI announced Monday the team for the 3-match T20 series against New Zealand, and the team for the first two Tests against Sri Lanka. The T20 line-up remains largely the same apart from newcomers Mohammed Siraj and Shreyas Iyer, who will be making their international debuts. While Dinesh Karthik returns to the team. #TeamIndia for 3-match T20I series against New Zealand #INDvNZ. The series starts from the 1st of November 2017. pic.twitter.com/R50PAVCBjW — BCCI (@BCCI) October 23, 2017 × The rest of the team inludes captain Virat Kohli, vice-captain Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Manish Pandey, Shreyas Iyer, MS Dhoni (wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ashish Nehra. ANI reported that Ashish Nehra would play only the first of the three games. Ashish Nehra to play only the first t20 match of the series against New Zealand — ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2017 × The series begins on November 1. #TeamIndia for first two Test matches against Sri Lanka. The 3-match Test series begins from the 16th of November in Kolkata #INDvSL pic.twitter.com/o2Ib0Qjqzf — BCCI (@BCCI) October 23, 2017 × The three-match test series begins November 16 in Kolkata.

BCCI announces teams for T20s against Kiwis, Tests against Lanka

In a big relief for S&nbsp;Sreesanth, the Kerala High Court on Monday lifted the lifetime-ban imposed on the tainted pacer by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in connection with the spot fixing case.

Sreesanth was one of those charged for spot-fixing during the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013.

In September 2013, the disciplinary committee of the BCCI gave him a life ban from the sport, effectively ending his career.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/sreesanth-to-defy-bcci-ban-and-play-first-division-cricket-12440" target="_blank">Also read:&nbsp;Sreesanth to defy BCCI ban and play first division cricket</a>

However, a Delhi Sessions court in 2015 had exonerated him in the spot-fixing case registered by the Delhi Police which invoked the Maharashtra Control of organized crimes Act (MCOCA).

The BCCI had earlier in April this year rejected Sreesanth`s plea for a review of his life ban, saying it will not compromise on its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.

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<h5>The BCCI had earlier in April this year rejected Sreesanth`s plea for a review of his life ban, saying it would not compromise on its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption</h5>
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The country`s cricket board had also informed the Kerala High Court that a criminal court exonerating Sreesanth of spot-fixing charges was not enough to lift the lifetime ban on him.

After Sreesanth approached the Kerala High Court in March this year with a petition seeking the lifting of his ban, the court asked him to file a review plea before the BCCI.

The BCCI, though, remained adamant and had earlier refused to grant Sreesanth a `no objection certificate` for playing in Scotland which led him to launch a scathing attack on the board.&nbsp;

The ban on Sreesanth came after he was charged with spot-fixing during the 2013 edition of the IPL

In a big relief for S Sreesanth, the Kerala High Court on Monday lifted the lifetime-ban imposed on the tainted pacer by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in connection with the spot fixing case. Sreesanth was one of those charged for spot-fixing during the sixth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013. In September 2013, the disciplinary committee of the BCCI gave him a life ban from the sport, effectively ending his career. Also read: Sreesanth to defy BCCI ban and play first division cricket However, a Delhi Sessions court in 2015 had exonerated him in the spot-fixing case registered by the Delhi Police which invoked the Maharashtra Control of organized crimes Act (MCOCA). The BCCI had earlier in April this year rejected Sreesanth`s plea for a review of his life ban, saying it will not compromise on its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. The BCCI had earlier in April this year rejected Sreesanth`s plea for a review of his life ban, saying it would not compromise on its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption × The country`s cricket board had also informed the Kerala High Court that a criminal court exonerating Sreesanth of spot-fixing charges was not enough to lift the lifetime ban on him. After Sreesanth approached the Kerala High Court in March this year with a petition seeking the lifting of his ban, the court asked him to file a review plea before the BCCI. The BCCI, though, remained adamant and had earlier refused to grant Sreesanth a `no objection certificate` for playing in Scotland which led him to launch a scathing attack on the board.

Kerala HC lifts BCCI life ban on cricketer Sreesanth

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to former BCCI president N Srinivasan and Niranjan Shah, of the Saurashtra Cricket Association, for participating in the June 26 Special General Meeting of the Board of Control for Cricket in India.&nbsp;

The SC-appointed Committee of Administrators had, in its fourth report submitted to the court, accused Srinivasan and Shah of disrupting the Special General Meeting.&nbsp;

The meeting had been convened to build consensus among BCCI members on adoption of the Lodha Panel reforms.&nbsp;

&quot;The SGM held on June 26 was manifestly disruptive. Before the meeting, a substantial consensus has been arrived at as a result of mutual deliberations between the CoA and various constituent members of BCCI,&quot; ANI quoted the CoA`s report stated.&nbsp;

&quot;The SGM on June 26 was attended by various persons who are disqualified from being office bearers of the BCCI and/or their respective state/member associations including N Srinivasan (represented the TNCA) and Niranjan Shah (Saurashtra CA) amongst others,&quot; it added.&nbsp;

Describing the Srinivasan-Shah duo as disqualified members, the CoA further accused them of having a vested interest in wanting to stall the implementation of the reforms.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court has adjourned the matter till September 24.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The SC-appointed Committee of Administrators has accused the Srini-Shah duo of wanting to stall implementation of the Lodha Panel reforms

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to former BCCI president N Srinivasan and Niranjan Shah, of the Saurashtra Cricket Association, for participating in the June 26 Special General Meeting of the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The SC-appointed Committee of Administrators had, in its fourth report submitted to the court, accused Srinivasan and Shah of disrupting the Special General Meeting. The meeting had been convened to build consensus among BCCI members on adoption of the Lodha Panel reforms. "The SGM held on June 26 was manifestly disruptive. Before the meeting, a substantial consensus has been arrived at as a result of mutual deliberations between the CoA and various constituent members of BCCI," ANI quoted the CoA`s report stated. "The SGM on June 26 was attended by various persons who are disqualified from being office bearers of the BCCI and/or their respective state/member associations including N Srinivasan (represented the TNCA) and Niranjan Shah (Saurashtra CA) amongst others," it added. Describing the Srinivasan-Shah duo as disqualified members, the CoA further accused them of having a vested interest in wanting to stall the implementation of the reforms. The Supreme Court has adjourned the matter till September 24.

SC issues notices to ex-BCCI president Srinivasan, Niranjan Shah

Former BCCI president Anurag Thakur has tendered an &quot;unconditional&quot; apology to the Supreme Court. &nbsp;

Thakur&#39;s &quot;unequivocal&quot; apology, PTI reported, stated that it was never his intention to undermine the majesty of the court.

&quot;I humbly submit that it was never the intention of the deponent to undermine the majesty of this court and since unintentionally some kind of misinformation and miscommunication has occured, I unhesitatingly tender my unconditional and unequivocal apology to this court,&quot; PTI quoted the affidavit as saying.

The court has asked Thakur for the apology on July 7.

And it had asked him to tender the apology in person on July 14.

In return, the court had hinted, it would close the contempt of court case against him.&nbsp;

The court had charged Thakur with contempt because he had written to the ICC -- after the Supreme Court had removed him as BCCI president -- saying the BCCI&#39;s autonomy was being undermined. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Thakur's 'unequivocal' apology stated that it was never his intention to undermine the majesty of the court.

Former BCCI president Anurag Thakur has tendered an "unconditional" apology to the Supreme Court. Thakur's "unequivocal" apology, PTI reported, stated that it was never his intention to undermine the majesty of the court. "I humbly submit that it was never the intention of the deponent to undermine the majesty of this court and since unintentionally some kind of misinformation and miscommunication has occured, I unhesitatingly tender my unconditional and unequivocal apology to this court," PTI quoted the affidavit as saying. The court has asked Thakur for the apology on July 7. And it had asked him to tender the apology in person on July 14. In return, the court had hinted, it would close the contempt of court case against him. The court had charged Thakur with contempt because he had written to the ICC -- after the Supreme Court had removed him as BCCI president -- saying the BCCI's autonomy was being undermined.

Ex-BCCI president Anurag Thakur tenders 'unconditional' apology to SC

The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Monday that it was delaying -- by a few days -- announcing a new cricket coach.&nbsp;

And that it would make its announcement after talking with captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

The delay was announced by Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

Ganguly is part of the BCCI&#39;s Cricket Advisory Committee, along with Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman.&nbsp;

The CAC, which was given the job of picking the next coach, held interviews today with potential coaches.&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri and Virender Sehwag are the reported frontrunners for the position.&nbsp;

In his announcement, Ganguly said they had talked to five contenders and that they had made their pick.&nbsp;

But that they would make an announcement only after talking with Kohli about who best he could work with.&nbsp;

In effect then, they have left the choice to Kohli.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the last coach -- Anil Kumble -- had had to leave because of differences with Kohli.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The BCCI said they would announce who the next coach was after speaking with captain Virat Kohli

The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Monday that it was delaying -- by a few days -- announcing a new cricket coach. And that it would make its announcement after talking with captain Virat Kohli. The delay was announced by Sourav Ganguly. Ganguly is part of the BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee, along with Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman. The CAC, which was given the job of picking the next coach, held interviews today with potential coaches. Ravi Shastri and Virender Sehwag are the reported frontrunners for the position. In his announcement, Ganguly said they had talked to five contenders and that they had made their pick. But that they would make an announcement only after talking with Kohli about who best he could work with. In effect then, they have left the choice to Kohli. Interestingly, the last coach -- Anil Kumble -- had had to leave because of differences with Kohli.

BCCI leaves next coach pick to Virat Kohli

The Supreme Court on Friday asked the former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Anurag Thakur to tender afresh an &ldquo;unequivocal&rdquo; and &ldquo;categorical&rdquo; apology before it in a contempt case initiated against him.

A bench, comprising Justices Dipak Misra, A.M. Khanwilkar and D.Y. Chandrachud, said it was not going to consider the earlier affidavit of apology filed by Mr. Thakur and asked him to file a &ldquo;one-page short affidavit&rdquo; tendering unconditional apology.

The bench indicated that it was willing to accept the apology and close the contempt proceedings against Mr. Thakur, a BJP MP from Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh.

Senior advocate P.S. Patwalia, appearing for Mr. Thakur, said though his client was willing to tender an unconditional apology, he has got a very good case on merit through which it can be proved that he did no wrong.

The apex court fixed the matter for July 14 and asked Mr. Thakur to remain present before it that day.

The court initiated the contempt proceedings against him on January 2 this year for filing a false affidavit over writing to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on the issue of autonomy.

&ldquo;The conduct of the president of the BCCI in seeking a letter from the president of the ICC in August 2016, after the final judgment and Order of this Court, is nothing but an attempt on the part of the head of the BCCI to evade complying, with the Order of this Court,&rdquo; the court had said while issuing the show cause notice to Thakur.

Coming down heavily on the defiant BCCI brass, the court, on Januray 2, removed Mr. Thakur and Ajay Shirke as president and secretary for &ldquo;obstructing&rdquo; and &ldquo;impeding&rdquo; its directions for overhauling governance in the cricket body and appointed a committee of administrators to oversee the BCCI&rsquo;s functions.

The court ordered Thakur to appear before it on July 14

The Supreme Court on Friday asked the former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Anurag Thakur to tender afresh an “unequivocal” and “categorical” apology before it in a contempt case initiated against him. A bench, comprising Justices Dipak Misra, A.M. Khanwilkar and D.Y. Chandrachud, said it was not going to consider the earlier affidavit of apology filed by Mr. Thakur and asked him to file a “one-page short affidavit” tendering unconditional apology. The bench indicated that it was willing to accept the apology and close the contempt proceedings against Mr. Thakur, a BJP MP from Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh. Senior advocate P.S. Patwalia, appearing for Mr. Thakur, said though his client was willing to tender an unconditional apology, he has got a very good case on merit through which it can be proved that he did no wrong. The apex court fixed the matter for July 14 and asked Mr. Thakur to remain present before it that day. The court initiated the contempt proceedings against him on January 2 this year for filing a false affidavit over writing to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on the issue of autonomy. “The conduct of the president of the BCCI in seeking a letter from the president of the ICC in August 2016, after the final judgment and Order of this Court, is nothing but an attempt on the part of the head of the BCCI to evade complying, with the Order of this Court,” the court had said while issuing the show cause notice to Thakur. Coming down heavily on the defiant BCCI brass, the court, on Januray 2, removed Mr. Thakur and Ajay Shirke as president and secretary for “obstructing” and “impeding” its directions for overhauling governance in the cricket body and appointed a committee of administrators to oversee the BCCI’s functions.

SC asks ex-BCCI president Anurag Thakur for unconditional apology

Ravi Shastri on Monday applied formally for the job of head coach of the Indian cricket team.&nbsp;

Media reports said he was a favourite for the job, and that captain Virat Kohli keen on having him as coach.&nbsp;

Another notable application on Monday was that of former West Indies opener Phil Simmons.

&quot;Yes, Ravi has applied and so has Phil Simmons,&quot; PTI reported a BCCI official as saying.

The others who have thrown their hat into the ring are Virender Sehwag, Tom Moody, Venkatesh Prasad, Richard Pybus, Dodda Ganesh and Lalchand Rajput.

The deadline for applying is July 9.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Interviews of the applicants will be conducted the following day by the Cricket Advisory Committee&nbsp;comprising Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman, and Sachin Tendulkar.

Media reports It was Tendulkar who had asked Shastri to apply for the job.&nbsp;

Just as interestingly, it is thought Ganguly had backed ex-coach Anil Kumble for the job over Shastri last year.&nbsp;

Kumble had finally had to go because of differences with captain Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

Another notable application Monday was that of former West Indies opener Phil Simmons

Ravi Shastri on Monday applied formally for the job of head coach of the Indian cricket team. Media reports said he was a favourite for the job, and that captain Virat Kohli keen on having him as coach. Another notable application on Monday was that of former West Indies opener Phil Simmons. "Yes, Ravi has applied and so has Phil Simmons," PTI reported a BCCI official as saying. The others who have thrown their hat into the ring are Virender Sehwag, Tom Moody, Venkatesh Prasad, Richard Pybus, Dodda Ganesh and Lalchand Rajput. The deadline for applying is July 9. Interviews of the applicants will be conducted the following day by the Cricket Advisory Committee comprising Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman, and Sachin Tendulkar. Media reports It was Tendulkar who had asked Shastri to apply for the job. Just as interestingly, it is thought Ganguly had backed ex-coach Anil Kumble for the job over Shastri last year. Kumble had finally had to go because of differences with captain Virat Kohli.

Ravi Shastri formally applies for India cricket coach job

With Anil Kumble having stepped down as coach of the Indian cricket team, captain Virat Kohli has said he has &quot;total respect for Kumble...&quot;&nbsp;

What was interesting was that he said he had total respect for him as a cricketer.&nbsp;

Kohli left out what he thought of Kumble as a coach.&nbsp;

Kumble stepped down as coach because of differences with Kohli.&nbsp;

ANI reported Kohli as saying on the eve of the first ODI against the West Indies: &quot;It&#39;s his opinion, which I respect. I have total respect for him as a cricketer and what he has achieved [for the] nation. All the years that he has played. There&#39;s no taking away that aspect of him at all. And we all respect him totally.&quot;&nbsp;

Kohli added: &quot;It&#39;s (Kumble&#39;s resignation) something that has happened right after the (Champions Trophy) tournament. One thing for sure is that I have had 11 press conferences that have happened during the Champions Trophy. We have created a culture over the last three-four years that whatever happens in the change room, we&#39;ve tried to maintain the sanctity of the change room throughout.

&quot;That is what the whole team believes in. For us that is paramount. I&#39;ve always respected that and we have continued to maintain that as well.&quot;&nbsp;

ANI said Kohli did not say anything more, saying the &quot;sanctity of the dressing room&quot; had to be maintained.&nbsp;

Kumble however had said a certain amount -- in a most dignified manner -- earlier.&nbsp;

He posted this letter (below) on his Twitter account on June 20.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Thank you! <a href="https://t.co/eF5qVzdBRj">pic.twitter.com/eF5qVzdBRj</a>
&mdash; Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/877218428318351361">June 20, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">&times;</a></div>

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The Indian cricket captain however did not say what he thought of as Kumble as a coach

With Anil Kumble having stepped down as coach of the Indian cricket team, captain Virat Kohli has said he has "total respect for Kumble..." What was interesting was that he said he had total respect for him as a cricketer. Kohli left out what he thought of Kumble as a coach. Kumble stepped down as coach because of differences with Kohli. ANI reported Kohli as saying on the eve of the first ODI against the West Indies: "It's his opinion, which I respect. I have total respect for him as a cricketer and what he has achieved [for the] nation. All the years that he has played. There's no taking away that aspect of him at all. And we all respect him totally." Kohli added: "It's (Kumble's resignation) something that has happened right after the (Champions Trophy) tournament. One thing for sure is that I have had 11 press conferences that have happened during the Champions Trophy. We have created a culture over the last three-four years that whatever happens in the change room, we've tried to maintain the sanctity of the change room throughout. "That is what the whole team believes in. For us that is paramount. I've always respected that and we have continued to maintain that as well." ANI said Kohli did not say anything more, saying the "sanctity of the dressing room" had to be maintained. Kumble however had said a certain amount -- in a most dignified manner -- earlier. He posted this letter (below) on his Twitter account on June 20. Thank you! pic.twitter.com/eF5qVzdBRj — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) June 20, 2017 ×

Kohli: Have total respect for Kumble

India&#39;s top court, the Supreme Court, on Friday said it would announce the names of administrators for the cash-rich Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on January 24.&nbsp;

The court also modified its earlier order by which a person having a cumulative tenure of nine years in any state association and the BCCI would stand disqualified from holding any position in the apex cricket body. The top court&#39;s modified order made it clear that the nine-year tenure of an office bearer in the state association or in the BCCI shall not be considered cumulatively.

A bench headed by Justice Dipak Misra directed that the names provided by senior advocates Anil Divan and Gopal Subramaniam, appointed as impartial advisers, amicus curiae, to assist the court for appointing the BCCI administrators be kept secret.

The amicus curiae were asked to suggest the names of persons who could be best suitable as administrators for the cricket board.

The bench, which also included justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, agreed to consider the plea of Railways, Services and Association of Universities which lost the full memberships status and were downgraded as associate members.

Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for them, said that the judgement should be recalled and revisited as larger questions have not been answered.&nbsp;

(PTI)

 
&nbsp;

The court also directed that the names nominated by impartial advisers be kept secret

India's top court, the Supreme Court, on Friday said it would announce the names of administrators for the cash-rich Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on January 24. The court also modified its earlier order by which a person having a cumulative tenure of nine years in any state association and the BCCI would stand disqualified from holding any position in the apex cricket body. The top court's modified order made it clear that the nine-year tenure of an office bearer in the state association or in the BCCI shall not be considered cumulatively. A bench headed by Justice Dipak Misra directed that the names provided by senior advocates Anil Divan and Gopal Subramaniam, appointed as impartial advisers, amicus curiae, to assist the court for appointing the BCCI administrators be kept secret. The amicus curiae were asked to suggest the names of persons who could be best suitable as administrators for the cricket board. The bench, which also included justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud, agreed to consider the plea of Railways, Services and Association of Universities which lost the full memberships status and were downgraded as associate members. Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for them, said that the judgement should be recalled and revisited as larger questions have not been answered. (PTI)

India's top court to name new BCCI administrators on January 24

India&#39;s apex court today asked the country&#39;s governing body of cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), not to disburse funds to state associations till they file affidavits assuring they will abide by the Lodha panel recommendations.&nbsp;

The Lodha Committee, set up to bring about administrative changes in the BCCI, had directed banks the board has accounts with to stop disbursing &quot;large&quot; amounts to state associations.

The Supreme Court ordered that the Rs 16.72 cr each disbursed to 13 state bodies should not be spent till they file affidavit on reforms.

It also directed BCCI President Anurag Thakur to file a personal affidavit on his communication with ICC about Lodha panel. The court asked Thakur and board official Ratnakar Shetty to file the affidavits within 10 days.&nbsp;

The Lodha panel&#39;s directive about not disbursing funds to state associations had come after the BCCI chose not to implement some of the recommendations it had made.

The panel had asked the BCCI to make a series of changes, including age limit of 70 years for all office bearers, a tenure limit of nine years with a cooling off period and the one-state-one-vote policy, among others.&nbsp;

(WION) 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court of India restrained state associations from spending funds till they assured implementation of Lodha panel recommendations

India's apex court today asked the country's governing body of cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), not to disburse funds to state associations till they file affidavits assuring they will abide by the Lodha panel recommendations. The Lodha Committee, set up to bring about administrative changes in the BCCI, had directed banks the board has accounts with to stop disbursing "large" amounts to state associations. The Supreme Court ordered that the Rs 16.72 cr each disbursed to 13 state bodies should not be spent till they file affidavit on reforms. It also directed BCCI President Anurag Thakur to file a personal affidavit on his communication with ICC about Lodha panel. The court asked Thakur and board official Ratnakar Shetty to file the affidavits within 10 days. The Lodha panel's directive about not disbursing funds to state associations had come after the BCCI chose not to implement some of the recommendations it had made. The panel had asked the BCCI to make a series of changes, including age limit of 70 years for all office bearers, a tenure limit of nine years with a cooling off period and the one-state-one-vote policy, among others. (WION)

India's top court bars BCCI from disbursing funds to state bodies without affidavits on reforms

The head of India&#39;s powerful cricket board has voiced opposition to controversial plans for a two-tier Test system being considered by the game&#39;s governing body, a report said today. 
 
Anurag Thakur, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), told a newspaper that smaller nations would lose out on revenue and the chance to compete against the top teams. 
 
&quot;The BCCI is against the two-tier Test system because the smaller countries will lose out, and the BCCI wants to take care of them. It is necessary to protect their interests,&quot; a Chennai-based daily, quoted him as saying. 
 
&quot;In the two-tier system, they will lose out on a lot, including revenue and the opportunity to play against top teams. We don&#39;t want that to happen.&nbsp;We want to work in the best interests of world cricket and that is why our team plays against all the countries.&quot; 
 
The International Cricket Council (ICC) first discussed the proposal to split Test cricket into two divisions at a meeting in Edinburgh last month, and is due to debate the plan further in September. 
 
Under the scheme being considered, the top seven-ranked teams would join a de facto premier league designed to boost interest in Test cricket.&nbsp;The other three lowest ranked sides which are currently the West Indies, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, would then join a second division, which would also include the likes of Afghanistan and Ireland. 
 
Although England, Australia and New Zealand have all come out in favour of the proposal, India&#39;s opposition could well mean it is now dead in the water. 
 
Former BCCI president Shashank Manohar is head of the ICC and India, which is the game&#39;s financial powerhouse, has a history of ensuring that its stance prevails on key debates within the global body. 
 
The plan has been fiercely opposed by the likes of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which is at risk of falling outside the top seven after sliding down the rankings in the last year. 
 
The smaller Test teams financial survival largely depends on their ability to sell television rights to matches against teams such as India and England. 
 
(AFP)

Although England, Australia and New Zealand all favour the proposal, India's opposition could well mean it is now dead in the water

The head of India's powerful cricket board has voiced opposition to controversial plans for a two-tier Test system being considered by the game's governing body, a report said today. Anurag Thakur, president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), told a newspaper that smaller nations would lose out on revenue and the chance to compete against the top teams. "The BCCI is against the two-tier Test system because the smaller countries will lose out, and the BCCI wants to take care of them. It is necessary to protect their interests," a Chennai-based daily, quoted him as saying. "In the two-tier system, they will lose out on a lot, including revenue and the opportunity to play against top teams. We don't want that to happen. We want to work in the best interests of world cricket and that is why our team plays against all the countries." The International Cricket Council (ICC) first discussed the proposal to split Test cricket into two divisions at a meeting in Edinburgh last month, and is due to debate the plan further in September. Under the scheme being considered, the top seven-ranked teams would join a de facto premier league designed to boost interest in Test cricket. The other three lowest ranked sides which are currently the West Indies, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, would then join a second division, which would also include the likes of Afghanistan and Ireland. Although England, Australia and New Zealand have all come out in favour of the proposal, India's opposition could well mean it is now dead in the water. Former BCCI president Shashank Manohar is head of the ICC and India, which is the game's financial powerhouse, has a history of ensuring that its stance prevails on key debates within the global body. The plan has been fiercely opposed by the likes of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, which is at risk of falling outside the top seven after sliding down the rankings in the last year. The smaller Test teams financial survival largely depends on their ability to sell television rights to matches against teams such as India and England. (AFP)

India's cricket board opposes two-tier Test plan: report

England will embark on their lengthy tour of India later this year with Rajkot hosting the first of the five test matches from November 9, the cricket boards announced today. 
 
Rajkot will be making its debut as a test venue in the series, as will be coastal Vishakapatnam, which hosts the second test from November 17. 
 
Mohali, Mumbai and Chennai will host the remaining matches of what will be England&#39;s first five-test rubber in India since 1984-85. 
 
Beginning on January 15, England will also play three one-dayers and as many Twenty20 Internationals. 
 
&quot;This promises to be a historic test series and a great opportunity for Alastair Cook and his players to repeat the memorable test series win we enjoyed on our last trip to India in 2012,&quot; Andrew Strauss, director of England Cricket, said in a statement. 
 
&quot;Equally, Eoin Morgan&#39;s white-ball squad will be anticipating hard-fought and competitive encounters against high quality opposition in both formats.&quot; he added. 
 
(Reuters)

Rajkot will be making its debut as a test venue in the series. It will host first of the five test matches from November 9

England will embark on their lengthy tour of India later this year with Rajkot hosting the first of the five test matches from November 9, the cricket boards announced today. Rajkot will be making its debut as a test venue in the series, as will be coastal Vishakapatnam, which hosts the second test from November 17. Mohali, Mumbai and Chennai will host the remaining matches of what will be England's first five-test rubber in India since 1984-85. Beginning on January 15, England will also play three one-dayers and as many Twenty20 Internationals. "This promises to be a historic test series and a great opportunity for Alastair Cook and his players to repeat the memorable test series win we enjoyed on our last trip to India in 2012," Andrew Strauss, director of England Cricket, said in a statement. "Equally, Eoin Morgan's white-ball squad will be anticipating hard-fought and competitive encounters against high quality opposition in both formats." he added. (Reuters)

England to begin test series in India at new venue Rajkot

Former captain Anil Kumble will be India&#39;s head coach for the next year, the country&#39;s cricket board, (BCCI) said today. 
 
&quot;After discussions we have taken a final call that for one year Anil Kumble will be the head coach,&quot; BCCI President Anurag Thakur told reporters in Dharamsala. 
 
Former leg-spinner Kumble, 45, is India&#39;s most successful bowler and took 619 wickets in 132 tests and 337 from 271 one-day internationals. 
 
The coach&#39;s post was vacant since Ravi Shastri&#39;s tenure as the team director ended with India&#39;s semi-final exit at the World Twenty20 tournament on home soil earlier this year. 
 
The board had received 57 applications for the post. The applications were made available to an advisory panel that included former captains Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly and former batsman VVS Laxman. 
 
(Reuters)

The post was vacant since Ravi Shastri's tenure as the team director ended with India's semi-final exit at the World Twenty20 this year

Former captain Anil Kumble will be India's head coach for the next year, the country's cricket board, (BCCI) said today. "After discussions we have taken a final call that for one year Anil Kumble will be the head coach," BCCI President Anurag Thakur told reporters in Dharamsala. Former leg-spinner Kumble, 45, is India's most successful bowler and took 619 wickets in 132 tests and 337 from 271 one-day internationals. The coach's post was vacant since Ravi Shastri's tenure as the team director ended with India's semi-final exit at the World Twenty20 tournament on home soil earlier this year. The board had received 57 applications for the post. The applications were made available to an advisory panel that included former captains Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly and former batsman VVS Laxman. (Reuters)

Anil Kumble appointed head coach of Indian cricket team

India named six new Test venues today as they prepare to host New Zealand, England and then top-ranked Australia in an exhaustive home season starting in October. 
 
India will kickstart the season against New Zealand with three Tests and five One-Day Internationals, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said. 
 
England then arrive for five Tests and six limited-overs matches, while the Australia series is scheduled for February and March next year. 
 
Bangladesh will also play a one-off Test during the season, their first such outing in India since they gained Test status in 2000. 
 
The cities of Rajkot, Visakhapatnam, Pune, Dharamsala, Ranchi and Indore will host Test matches for the first time, the BCCI said after a meeting in Mumbai. 
 
&quot;I welcome the new Test venues. Their arrival will take Test match cricket to every corner of the country,&quot; BCCI president Anurag Thakur said in a statement. 
 
India will play 13 Tests in total during the season, the most since the 1979-80 home season, along with eight ODIs and three T20 Internationals. 
 
The BCCI also said that the domestic Duleep Trophy tournament in September will be played under lights and with a pink ball for the first time in the country. 
 
Australia and New Zealand played the inaugural day-night Test in Adelaide last year, attracting huge crowds.

BCCI president Anurag Thakur believes that with these new venues, Test cricket will go to every corner of the country

India named six new Test venues today as they prepare to host New Zealand, England and then top-ranked Australia in an exhaustive home season starting in October. India will kickstart the season against New Zealand with three Tests and five One-Day Internationals, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said. England then arrive for five Tests and six limited-overs matches, while the Australia series is scheduled for February and March next year. Bangladesh will also play a one-off Test during the season, their first such outing in India since they gained Test status in 2000. The cities of Rajkot, Visakhapatnam, Pune, Dharamsala, Ranchi and Indore will host Test matches for the first time, the BCCI said after a meeting in Mumbai. "I welcome the new Test venues. Their arrival will take Test match cricket to every corner of the country," BCCI president Anurag Thakur said in a statement. India will play 13 Tests in total during the season, the most since the 1979-80 home season, along with eight ODIs and three T20 Internationals. The BCCI also said that the domestic Duleep Trophy tournament in September will be played under lights and with a pink ball for the first time in the country. Australia and New Zealand played the inaugural day-night Test in Adelaide last year, attracting huge crowds.

India names new Test venues for home season