Skipper says players have been in talks with cricket board on various issues and are trying to get organisation recognised.
NEW DELHI: Rahul Dravid did not exactly issue a clarion call of Karl Marx style but he meant as much by urging the cricketers of the country to unite. On Monday, the Indian captain strongly advocated the need for a recognised union of the players and said that a formal body could help in having a smooth dialogue with the Cricket Board.
Dravid said the players have always been in discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India on various issues and were trying to get their organisation, Indian Professional Cricketers’ Association (IPCA), officially recognised by the Board.
“We have FICA working for players at the international level and we have the IPCA here. We are trying to get it recognised,” Dravid said at a press conference here.
“We have taken up issues with the Board and there has been healthy dialogue and we have put our points across. In the long run, a players’ association will help in setting up a smooth process,” he added.
The Indian captain, however, preferred to keep the players’ concerns on the burn-out issue and the Board’s response to that off the media’s table.
“We have had healthy discussions on various issues, not just the burn-out issue,” said Dravid.
“There have been reports on this but either they have not given exactly what was discussed or have put their own spin on it. We have always had discussions with the BCCI on various issues at regular levels. I would like to take up our concerns directly with the Board and not through the media,” the Indian skipper added.
On the coming tour to West Indies, Dravid also stated that it was high time the Indian team justified its potential by setting right its overseas record.
“The tour is a big challenge. It is important for us to do well and correct the record outside the subcontinent,” Dravid said. “Hopefully we can try and fulfill some of the talents we have.”
Dravid said it would be a privilege for him to play opposite Brian Lara who has been named third time skipper of the West Indies.
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