The BCCI on Monday termed as “speculative and imaginary” the media reports which claimed that it has decided to pull out of men’s Asia Cup and women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup.
Media reports, quoting sources, said that BCCI won’t let Indian teams compete in the two Asian Cricket Council (ACC) events at a time when the cricket body is being headed by a Pakistani. Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the PCB Chairman, holds the position of President in the ACC.
Defending champions India are the hosts for the Men’s Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format, in September, while Sri Lanka have been allotted the Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup.
“Since this morning, some news items have come to our notice about BCCI’s decision not to participate in the Asia Cup and Women’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup, both ACC events. Such news is devoid of any truth as till now, the BCCI has not even discussed or taken any such steps regarding the ensuing ACC events, leave alone writing anything to the ACC,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said.
Saikia said that BCCI is focussed on ensuring the smooth conduct of the IPL and the upcoming five-match Test series against England beginning next month. “At this stage, our prime focus is on the ongoing IPL and the subsequent England series, both men and women. The Asia Cup or any other ACC event has not come up for discussion at any level. The BCCI, as and when any discussion on any ACC event takes place and any important decision is reached, will announce it through the media,” he said.
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