Players issued gag orders

MUMBAI: Hours before the Indian team embarked on the tour of South Africa, each player was handed a sheet of paper. No it was not their contract document but a letter with instructions of dos and don’ts. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has instructed the players to not talk to the media. Only the captain and the coach of the team have been allowed access to the Press.

Significantly, the gag order comes at a time when the differences between the players and the Board over a few issues have surfaced. Particularly on the issue of contracts which has been due since October 1.

Niranjan Shah said those orders were already in place and Monday’s exercise was just a reminder to the players at a time when they are embarking on an important tour.

“We don’t want them to be distracted by the media,” said the Board secretary.

Ratnakar Shetty, the BCCI’s administrative incharge, who actually issued the letters, said one player will be made accessible to the media every day.

“The team management will decide who should speak to the Press.”